Amish Applesauce Cake

Name: Amish Applesauce Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 1/2 cup shortening; 1 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped nuts; 1/2 cup raisins

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

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Amish Applesauce Cake a moist and flavorful old-fashioned applesauce cake with warm spices, nuts, and raisins, perfect for any occasion. This cake is simple to make, yet rich in flavor, making it a wonderful dessert for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy treat at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Amish applesauce cake is one of those timeless recipes that brings comfort in every bite. The applesauce keeps it incredibly moist, while the combination of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm, spiced flavor. I love how the nuts and raisins add a bit of texture, making each bite satisfying. Plus, it’s an easy, one-bowl recipe that doesn’t require any fancy equipment.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 cup shortening

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/2 cup water

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup chopped nuts

1/2 cup raisins

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, shortening, applesauce, water, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.

Stir in the chopped nuts and raisins until evenly distributed.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.

Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings: 12 servings

Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for an extra depth of flavor.

Sweeter Touch: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a hint of sweetness.

Fruit Boost: Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates.

Frosted Option: Top with a simple cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat.

Healthier Twist: Substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Storage/Reheating

I store the applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want to keep it fresh longer, I refrigerate it for up to a week. To freeze, I wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to eat, I let the cake thaw at room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave.

Related Recipes:

Moist, Fluffy Almond Flour Apple Cake (Gluten-Free)

FAQs

Can I use butter instead of shortening?

Yes, I can substitute an equal amount of butter for the shortening, which will add a richer flavor.

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Absolutely! I simply leave out the nuts if I want a nut-free version.

What can I use instead of raisins?

I can swap raisins for dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even small pieces of apple for a different twist.

How do I know when the cake is done?

I check by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Can I add frosting to this cake?

Yes! A dusting of powdered sugar or a simple cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with this cake.

Conclusion

This Amish applesauce cake is a simple yet flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The warm spices, moist texture, and combination of raisins and nuts make it a classic favorite. Whether I enjoy it plain, frosted, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s always a comforting treat that brings a taste of tradition to the table.