Description

This easy Amish apple cake is a moist, spiced dessert packed with tender apples and warm cinnamon flavor. It’s a comforting, homemade treat perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups fresh apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 3 medium apples)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)
1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (for glaze, optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze, optional)

Instructions

Peel, core, and dice 3 medium apples (about 3 cups). Pat dry if very juicy.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
In a large bowl, beat eggs. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in diced apples and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Tap pan lightly to release air bubbles.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool cake in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely (at least 30 minutes for easier slicing).
For optional glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.

Notes

Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture. For gluten-free, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For vegan, use flax eggs and coconut oil. Do not overmix batter. Check for doneness at 35 minutes. Cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cake)
Calories: 270
Sugar: 24
Sodium: 210
Fat: 12
Saturated Fat: 2
Carbohydrates: 38
Fiber: 2
Protein: 3

Keywords: Amish apple cake, easy apple dessert, homemade apple cake, Pennsylvania Dutch, fall baking, apple cinnamon cake, sheet cake, comfort food, potluck dessert, apple recipes