Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?

You can, but reduce added sugar by ¼ cup to avoid an overly sweet cake.

How do I make homemade applesauce?

Peel, core, and chop about 4–5 apples. Simmer with ¼ cup water until soft (10–15 minutes), then mash or blend to desired consistency

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum for structure

What’s the best way to serve this cake warm?

Heat individual slices for 10–15 seconds in the microwave or 5 minutes at 300°F (150°C) in the oven.

Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe

Name: Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Amish
Ingredients: 2 cups unsweetened applesauce; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups packed brown sugar; 2½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground cloves; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ teaspoon ground allspice; 1 cup raisins (optional); ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Description

This moist and warmly spiced Amish Applesauce Cake is a timeless classic made with simple pantry staples like applesauce, brown sugar, and aromatic spices. It’s an easy, budget-friendly treat that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy evenings with tea.

Freshly baked Amish Applesauce Cake – rich, spiced, and comforting, just like Grandma used to make.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups unsweetened applesauce

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups packed brown sugar

2½ cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground cloves

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground allspice

1 cup raisins (optional)

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Everything you need to make this cozy Amish Applesauce Cake from scratch.

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Stir in the applesauce and mix well.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
Gradually stir dry ingredients into the applesauce mixture until just combined.
Fold in raisins and nuts, if using.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan, then dust with powdered sugar or top with glaze before serving.

From mixing bowl to oven – here’s how this heartwarming Amish Applesauce Cake comes together.

Notes

Use homemade applesauce for extra flavor if available.

Optional toppings: powdered sugar, vanilla glaze, or cream cheese frosting.

This cake freezes well—wrap slices individually and store for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Amish

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 290
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg