1-Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish: Getting this Amish Applesauce Cake just right starts with a few easy steps that anyone can follow. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your baking dish by greasing and flouring it or lining it with parchment paper. This simple prep helps the cake release easily and bake evenly.

2-Mix dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately then combine: Next, in a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugars until they’re light and fluffy, then mix in the egg, applesauce, milk, and a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined, and fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans if you’re using them.

3-Bake the cake and prepare the caramel glaze: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smooth it out for an even bake, and pop it in the oven for 35-40 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick it should come out clean when the cake is ready. For a finishing touch, make the caramel glaze by melting ¼ cup unsalted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons heavy cream in a saucepan, simmering for 2-3 minutes. Stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and optionally ¼ cup stewed apples, then pour it over the slightly cooled cake to let it soak in.