If you are searching for a classic old-fashioned dessert, this Amish applesauce cake is one of the best recipes you can make. It is incredibly moist, warmly spiced, and full of rich homemade flavor. Made with applesauce, cinnamon, and simple pantry ingredients, this cake is a true traditional Amish dessert that never goes out of style.
This Amish applesauce cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or serving with a cup of coffee. Every time I bake it, I’m reminded of how comforting simple homemade desserts can be—the warm cinnamon aroma fills the kitchen and creates a cozy atmosphere that makes everyone eager for the first slice. Every bite is soft, tender, and packed with cozy flavors that make it ideal for fall, holidays, or any time you want a comforting homemade treat.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Applesauce Cake
This Amish applesauce cake is a timeless recipe for many reasons:
- Extremely moist and soft texture
- Warm cinnamon and spice flavor
- Simple and budget-friendly ingredients
- Easy to prepare in one bowl
- Perfect for breakfast or dessert
- Great with coffee or tea
- Can be baked in a pan or bundt form
Ingredients for Amish Applesauce Cake
This amish applesauce cake uses basic ingredients that create a rich and flavorful homemade dessert.
Wet Ingredients
- Butter
- White sugar
- Brown sugar
- Egg + extra yolk
- Applesauce
- Milk
Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground cloves
- Ground allspice
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Raisins
Key Ingredient Notes
Applesauce (The Star Ingredient)
The key to a perfect amish applesauce cake is applesauce. It keeps the cake incredibly moist while adding natural sweetness and flavor.
Warm Spices
Cinnamon, cloves, and allspice give this cake its signature cozy Amish flavor.
Nuts and Raisins
Walnuts or pecans add crunch, while raisins add extra sweetness and texture.
How to Make Amish Applesauce Cake
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or bundt pan.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Mix in the egg and extra yolk until fully combined.
Step 4: Add Applesauce and Milk
Stir in the applesauce and milk until the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice. Gradually add to the wet mixture and combine.
Step 6: Add Nuts and Raisins
Fold in walnuts or pecans and raisins if using.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake:
- 9×13 pan: about 40 minutes
- Bundt pan: about 55 minutes
Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips for the Best Amish Applesauce Cake
- Do not overmix for a soft, tender crumb
- Use unsweetened or homemade applesauce for better flavor
- Add extra cinnamon for a stronger spice profile
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish
- Let the cake cool before slicing for best texture
Variations for Amish Applesauce Cake
This amish applesauce cake is easy to customize:
- Add chopped apples for extra fruit texture
- Swap walnuts with pecans or almonds
- Add nutmeg or cardamom for deeper spice flavor
- Use dried cranberries instead of raisins
- Top with caramel glaze or cream cheese frosting
How to Store Amish Applesauce Cake
- Room temperature: 2–3 days (covered)
- Refrigerator: up to 1 week
- Freezer: up to 3 months
For best results, slice and freeze individual pieces for easy serving.
Serving Ideas
This amish applesauce cake is delicious served:
- With a hot cup of coffee
- As a breakfast cake
- With whipped cream or ice cream
- Lightly dusted with powdered sugar
- Slightly warm for extra comfort
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make amish applesauce cake without nuts?
Yes, simply omit the nuts and the cake will still be soft and delicious.
Can I use store-bought applesauce?
Yes, but homemade or chunky applesauce gives better flavor.
Can I bake it in different pans?
Yes, it works well in a bundt pan, loaf pan, or 9×13 dish.
Does amish applesauce cake need frosting?
No, it is moist and flavorful on its own, but glaze or frosting can be added if desired.
Final Thoughts on Amish Applesauce Cake
This Amish applesauce cake is a classic homemade dessert that brings warmth, comfort, and traditional flavor to any kitchen. The combination of applesauce, spices, and nuts creates a moist and flavorful cake that tastes even better the next day.
The first time I made this Amish applesauce cake, I served it with coffee in the morning, and it instantly became one of those recipes I kept coming back to. It’s simple, nostalgic, and full of homemade comfort—exactly what a traditional Amish dessert should be.