Homemade Amish Applesauce Cake: Easy Family Recipe

Growing up in rural Pennsylvania, I remember the warm kitchen. It was filled with the comforting aroma of my grandmother’s traditional Amish applesauce cake. Each slice told a story of heritage, love, and simple culinary magic that connected generations.

This Amish applesauce cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a cherished tradition. It brings families together. With its moist texture and rich flavors, this homemade baked goods recipe captures the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine in every bite.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your culinary journey, this traditional Amish recipe promises a delightful experience. It will transport you to the cozy kitchens of Amish country.

Key Takeaways

• Classic Amish recipe passed through generations
• Simple and quick preparation process
• Perfect for family gatherings and potlucks
• Versatile dessert that suits various occasions
• Incorporates wholesome, traditional ingredients
• Serves approximately 12 people
• Takes just 50-55 minutes from start to finish

The Heritage of Amish Applesauce Cake

Explore the rich history of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine through its old-fashioned cakes. The Amish applesauce cake is a tasty example of traditions that have lasted through the years. It shows how food can bring families together for generations.

Origins in Pennsylvania Dutch Cuisine

This treat comes from Pennsylvania’s farm kitchens. Amish bakers made amazing desserts from simple ingredients. The applesauce cake shows their creativity and connection to the land.

• Developed from local apple harvests
• Reflects self-sufficiency of Amish farming communities
• Represents waste-free cooking principles

Traditional Baking Methods and Values

Amish baking values simplicity and quality. They use hand-cranked apple mills to make smooth applesauce. Each recipe is a piece of history, passed down with care and respect.

Role in Amish Community Gatherings

The applesauce cake is more than a dessert. It brings people together at church events and family reunions. It’s a sign of welcome and the strong bonds in Amish culture.

This cake has a rating of 4.93 from 42 votes. It continues to win hearts and keep a delicious tradition alive.

Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools

Making the perfect apple desserts needs the right ingredients and tools. Your grandma’s classic recipes for cinnamon-spiced treats require precision and love.

Key Ingredients

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups unsweetened applesauce
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• Signature spice blend:
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves

This mix of ingredients turns a simple cake into a nostalgic treat. It brings back memories of family gatherings.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Tube pan or Bundt pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack
• Wooden spoon

Pro tip: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will give your apple desserts the best texture.

Whether you’re new to baking or experienced, these ingredients and tools will help. They’ll help you make a delicious Amish Applesauce Cake that captures traditional baking’s essence.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Making delicious homemade treats like this Amish applesauce cake needs precision and care. Baking is an art that comes from traditional Amish recipes. Every step is important to make the perfect treat.

Preparing the Batter

First, gather your ingredients for this classic recipe. You’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Proper Mixing Techniques

When mixing your batter, gentle mixing is key. Unlike shoofly pie, this cake needs careful mixing. Start by creaming sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth.

Then, fold in dry ingredients and applesauce alternately. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough.

Baking Temperature and Timing

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch pan. Bake for 38-42 minutes, checking with a toothpick.

The cake is done when it’s golden-brown on top and the toothpick comes out clean.

Pro tip: Let the cake cool for 20-30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to fully develop. You can store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.

Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions

Your homemade Amish Applesauce Cake is a delightful fall treat. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful. If you want to keep it longer, refrigeration can make it last up to 5 days.

Reheating is easy and makes every slice taste fresh. Warm it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Or, bake it in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. For longer storage, freeze individual slices. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.

Serving this cake is an art that makes your dessert experience better. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee, apple cider, or herbal tea. A dollop of cream cheese frosting or powdered sugar makes it elegant. It’s perfect for family gatherings or special events.

Sharing this recipe brings a tradition of home baking to your table. Whether at a family dinner or autumn gathering, it adds warmth and joy.

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Homemade Amish Applesauce Cake: Easy Family Recipe

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• Author: Judy
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A moist and flavorful cake infused with warm spices, applesauce, nuts, and raisins. This traditional Amish recipe is perfect for a comforting dessert or a cozy treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, shortening, applesauce, water, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped nuts and raisins.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool completely in the pan before serving.

Notes

• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
• You can substitute the shortening with butter for a richer flavor.
• Adding a simple glaze or dusting with powdered sugar can enhance the presentation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Amish

Nutrition

• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg