Amish Applesauce Cake (Print Version)

A moist, spiced cake featuring applesauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, with optional walnuts and raisins for added texture.

# Ingredients:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - ½ cup brown sugar, packed
04 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
05 - ½ teaspoon baking powder
06 - ½ teaspoon salt
07 - 1 teaspoon cinnamon
08 - ½ teaspoon nutmeg
09 - ½ teaspoon allspice

→ Wet Ingredients

10 - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
11 - 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce
12 - 2 large eggs
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Optional Mix-Ins

14 - ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
15 - ½ cup raisins

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan and set aside.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
03 - In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
04 - Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in walnuts and raisins if using.
05 - Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
06 - Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
07 - Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
08 - Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a simple glaze if desired.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Homemade applesauce adds the best flavor and moisture; avoid sweetened varieties to control sugar levels.
02 - Adjust the amount of spices based on personal preference. More cinnamon enhances the aroma.
03 - For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter.
04 - Cake stays fresh for 3 days at room temperature, 7 days in the fridge, or 3 months in the freezer when wrapped properly.