The Heartwarming Story of Amish Baking Traditions
In the rolling farmlands of Pennsylvania, Amish bakers have long understood the art of transforming simple ingredients into comforting, soul-warming treats. This Applesauce Cake represents generations of culinary wisdom – a recipe that speaks to simplicity, resourcefulness, and the warmth of home kitchens.
Ingredients
US and European Measurements
- 1½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking soda
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) baking powder
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) ground nutmeg
- ½ cup (120 ml) applesauce
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- Additional Recommended Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan
- Sift together dry ingredients
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, combine applesauce, sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture
- Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing
- Baking
- Pour batter into prepared pan
- Smooth top with a spatula
- Bake for 25-30 minutes
- Test with a toothpick for doneness
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: 8-10
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients
- Don’t overmix the batter
- Check cake 5 minutes before suggested baking time
- Allow cake to cool completely before serving
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Use whole wheat flour for added nutrition
- Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit
- Create a cream cheese frosting
- Use gluten-free flour blend
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this cake vegan? Use flax eggs and plant-based oil alternatives.
Q2: How do I store the cake? Keep in airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.
Q3: Can I freeze this cake? Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Q4: What can I serve with this cake? Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream pair beautifully.
Q5: Can I use homemade applesauce? Absolutely! Homemade adds wonderful fresh flavor.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Cool completely before storing
- Cover with plastic wrap or in airtight container
- Best consumed within 3-4 days
- Can be made a day ahead
A slice of comfort, tradition, and pure homemade joy awaits you!