Cozy Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe | Moist Spiced Cake with Old-Fashioned Flavor

A Slice of Amish Comfort

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about Amish applesauce cake—a dessert that wraps you in nostalgia with every bite. Rooted in the culinary traditions of Amish communities, this cake is a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and time-honored baking. Inspired by recipes from Amish Heritage, Flavorfull Recipes, and DishLuxe, it’s a treat that has stood the test of time.

What makes it so special? It’s the way applesauce lends natural sweetness and moisture, eliminating the need for heavy frostings or elaborate techniques. The warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—evoke cozy memories of fall leaves and family gatherings. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday table, a chilly afternoon with tea, or just because, this cake delivers comfort in every slice.

Perfectly spiced, delightfully moist, and easy to make, Amish applesauce cake is more than just dessert—it’s a tradition, a memory, and a moment of peace baked into every bite.

What Makes Amish Applesauce Cake Special

Amish applesauce cake is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome baking. Passed down through generations, it reflects the Amish values of resourcefulness and tradition. With no need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps, this cake relies on pantry staples and time-tested techniques to deliver rich flavor and satisfying texture.

What sets it apart is its moist crumb, achieved through the generous use of applesauce—a natural sweetener that also keeps the cake tender. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adds depth and warmth, making each bite feel like a cozy hug. It’s the kind of cake that tastes like home, whether served plain or dressed up with a glaze or frosting.

Often made in large batches for family gatherings or church socials, this cake is meant to be shared. Its enduring popularity lies in its ability to bring people together, one comforting slice at a time.

Ingredient Overview

Amish applesauce cake uses humble ingredients that come together to create a rich, spiced dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour: the base of the cake
• Baking soda: for leavening
• Salt: to balance sweetness
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: for warm, aromatic spice

Wet Ingredients:

• Unsweetened applesauce: adds moisture and natural sweetness
• Eggs: for structure and richness
• Butter or oil: either works to create a tender crumb
• Vanilla extract: enhances flavor

Sweeteners:

• Brown sugar: adds depth and a hint of molasses
• White sugar: balances the flavor and helps with texture

Optional Add-ins:

• Raisins: for bursts of sweetness
• Chopped walnuts or pecans: for crunch and nuttiness
• Shredded coconut: adds texture and a subtle tropical note

Tip: For the best flavor and texture, use homemade or chunky-style applesauce. It adds a rustic feel and little bits of apple that make each bite more interesting. These ingredients are easy to find and flexible, making this cake a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon cloves. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream ½ cup (1 stick) of softened butter (or ½ cup oil) with ¾ cup brown sugar and ½ cup white sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps create a tender texture.
4. Add Eggs and Applesauce: Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1½ cups of unsweetened applesauce and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix—this keeps the cake soft and moist.
6. Fold in Add-ins (Optional): Gently fold in ½ cup raisins, ½ cup chopped nuts, or ¼ cup shredded coconut if desired.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps the flavors settle and makes cutting easier.

Tip: Avoid overmixing the batter—this is key to achieving a tender, moist crumb.

Optional Glazes & Toppings

While Amish applesauce cake is delicious on its own, a topping can elevate it:

• Brown Sugar Glaze: A warm drizzle of brown sugar, butter, and cream adds a caramel-like finish.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Tangy and rich, perfect for a more decadent treat.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: Simple and elegant, ideal for a rustic presentation.
• Maple Glaze with Chopped Nuts: A sweet, nutty topping that pairs beautifully with the cake’s spices.

Choose your favorite or mix and match depending on the occasion. Each option adds a unique twist while letting the cake’s comforting flavors shine.

Serving Suggestions

Amish applesauce cake is versatile and crowd-pleasing. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert. It pairs wonderfully with hot drinks like apple cider, coffee, or spiced chai—perfect for chilly afternoons or holiday gatherings.

This cake also shines at brunches, potlucks, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Wrap slices in parchment and twine for a rustic presentation. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or the next day, its flavor deepens over time, making it even more irresistible with each bite.