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Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe

By Josefine Balker

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Homemade Amish applesauce cake on rustic table, captured with a vintage camera.
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There’s something deeply comforting about Amish baking, and nothing captures that warmth quite like Amish Applesauce Cake. Made with humble ingredients like applesauce, spices, and flour, this cake is a celebration of simplicity and rich tradition. It’s a moist, tender dessert that fills your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for both cozy evenings and festive gatherings.

Irresistible Reasons to Love This Recipe

Amish Applesauce Cake is more than a dessert—it’s a nostalgic experience. You’ll love how this cake strikes a perfect balance between soft texture and deep flavor, thanks to the combination of applesauce, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It’s easy to prepare with pantry staples, and it’s versatile enough to enjoy plain, glazed, or frosted. Plus, it’s lighter than typical cakes because the applesauce adds natural moisture, reducing the need for excess fats. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, holiday, or just because—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Heartwarming Ingredients for Success

Rustic kitchen counter with Amish applesauce cake ingredients in small bowls.
  1. 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
  3. 1 cup brown sugar
  4. 1 cup white sugar
  5. 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  6. 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  7. 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  8. 1 large egg

Additional Ingredients for Baking Process:

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup butter-flavored Crisco
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk

Deliciously Simple Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe That Always Delivers

Step-by-step Amish applesauce cake preparation on a wooden surface.

Preparation of Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Whisk everything together to ensure even distribution of the spices.

Creaming Butter and Sugars

In another mixing bowl:

  • Cream 1/2 cup butter-flavored Crisco with 1 cup granulated sugar and 3/4 cup brown sugar.
  • Beat until light and fluffy. This introduces air into the batter, creating a lighter texture.

Incorporating Applesauce and Eggs

Now, add the wet ingredients to the creamed mixture:

  • Add 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Mix in 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce.
  • Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  • Slowly pour in 1 cup of buttermilk, mixing until smooth.

Combining Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense.

Adding Nuts

Fold in:

  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Baking the Cake

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top.
  • Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Fresh and Fabulous: How to Serve and Store Your Cake Like a Pro

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
  • For an elevated touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or top with cream cheese frosting.

Storage:

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to a week.
  • Freezer: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly before serving.
Homemade Amish applesauce cake on rustic table, captured with a vintage camera.
Josefine Balker

Amish Applesauce Cake

This moist, tender cake made with applesauce, warm spices, and crunchy nuts is a nostalgic dessert inspired by Amish tradition. Perfectly spiced and naturally moist, it’s a comforting treat ideal for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Amish
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Wet Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup butter-flavored Crisco
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 eggs large
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
Add-ins
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • 9×13 inch Baking Dish
  • Electric mixer
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream together the Crisco, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Mix in applesauce and vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, until just combined.
  6. Fold in the chopped nuts.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Notes

Serve warm with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. For added indulgence, try with caramel drizzle or cream cheese frosting. Store covered at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate up to a week. Freeze slices up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 340 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
  • Sodium: 240 mg
  • Potassium: 140 mg
  • Carbohydrates: 49 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugars: 28 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Vitamin A: 90 IU
  • Vitamin C: 1 mg
  • Calcium: 50 mg
  • Iron: 1.5 mg

Comforting Wrap-Up

Amish Applesauce Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a slice of heritage baked into a soft, spice-filled treat. The ease of preparation, coupled with its rich flavor and comforting aroma, makes this cake a household favorite. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers timeless satisfaction with every bite. From its roots in Amish kitchens to your modern table, it’s a delicious reminder of how simple ingredients can create something truly memorable.

This cake is perfect for any occasion family dinners, festive holidays, or quiet afternoons with coffee. With its moist crumb and deep spice notes, Amish Applesauce Cake proves that old-fashioned recipes still have a place in today’s kitchens. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to favorite.

FAQs

How long does applesauce cake last?

Applesauce cake stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature, about a week in the fridge, and up to 3 months if frozen.

How does applesauce affect baking time?

Applesauce adds moisture, which may slightly extend the baking time. Always test doneness with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

What is the history of applesauce cake?

Applesauce cake has roots in Amish and early American cooking. It was often made during wartime and the Great Depression to stretch ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

What does applesauce replace in a cake?

Applesauce commonly replaces oil, butter, or eggs. It adds moisture and tenderness, making it a healthy baking alternative.

Josefine Balker

Food lover. Home cook. Recipe creator behind BriskyRecipes—sharing easy, flavorful meals to inspire everyday cooking with fresh ingredients and simple steps.

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