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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Amish Applesauce Cake

A simple, old-fashioned spice cake made moist with applesauce and warmly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Optional raisins and nuts add texture and richness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 290
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves
  • ½ cup raisins optional
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
For the Glaze (Optional):
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 –3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13" pan.
  2. Cream butter with sugars until fluffy.
  3. Beat in eggs, then add vanilla and applesauce.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, leavening agents, salt, and spices.
  5. Add dry ingredients to wet and mix until just combined.
  6. Fold in raisins and nuts if using.
  7. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/amish-applesauce-cake/

Notes

  • For a lighter texture, don’t overmix once the flour is added.
  • Raisins can be soaked in warm water for 10 minutes to plump before using.
  • The cake stays super moist and flavorful even without the glaze.