Description
Amish Applesauce Cake is a moist, spiced dessert cake perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting, nostalgic treat. Made with unsweetened applesauce, warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and studded with raisins and nuts, this cake offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser that serves well as a snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup water
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it and then lightly flouring to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Add the shortening, unsweetened applesauce, and water to the dry mixture and stir until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Add Nuts and Raisins: Gently fold in the chopped nuts and raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out to create a uniform layer ready for baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with very few crumbs attached.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This helps the cake set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Serve: Once cooled, slice into 12 pieces and enjoy your Amish Applesauce Cake as a delicious dessert or with a cup of tea or coffee.
Notes
- Use unsweetened applesauce to control sweetness and moisture levels.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans are recommended for the nuts but feel free to substitute based on preference or allergy considerations.
- For a more diabetic-friendly version, reduce sugar or use a sugar substitute and verify raisins quantity.
- This cake stores well covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an attractive presentation.
