Amish Onion Cake is a delightful and unconventional dish that blends sweet and savory flavors, bringing comfort and warmth to any gathering. Growing up, I fondly remember the enticing aroma of sizzling onions filling the air while baking this cake in my grandmother’s kitchen. This unique recipe, often considered a hidden gem in the realm of savory desserts, is perfect for family brunches or as a quirky side dish during holiday feasts. Its rich buttery base, complemented by the sweetness of Vidalia onions, creates a memorable experience that is sure to please your taste buds.

Why you’ll love this dish

One of the great joys of cooking is discovering dishes that surprise and delight. Amish Onion Cake is one of those rare finds that stands out for multiple reasons. Not only is it unique, but it’s also simple to prepare and budget-friendly, making it perfect for any occasion—whether a casual weeknight dinner, gathering with friends, or festive holidays. Families adore this dish because it’s both pleasing to the palate and appealing to the eyes. Imagine serving up a fragrant, golden cake adorned with onions that have caramelized beautifully, striking the perfect balance between savory and sweet.

"This Amish Onion Cake was a hit at our last family gathering! I never thought onions could taste this good in a cake." – Sarah M.

Step-by-step overview

Making Amish Onion Cake is an adventure that’s both straightforward and rewarding. First, you’ll sauté the charmingly sweet Vidalia onions, allowing them to mellow and develop their flavor. While they cool, you’ll assemble your dry ingredients and butter, mixing them to create a crumbly dough. Next comes the wet ingredients—whisking together eggs, milk, and sour cream creates a moisture-packed batter. After combining everything, it’s as simple as pouring into a pan and adding the glorious sautéed onions. Just pop it in the oven, and you’re on your way to a delightful dish!

What you’ll need

To create this amazing dish, here’s your shopping list:

• 3 to 4 Vidalia onions, chopped into chunks
• 2 cups cold butter, divided
• 1 Tbsp poppy seeds
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp baking powder
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 5 eggs
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup sour cream

Feel free to explore substitutions; if you don’t have Vidalia onions, other sweet onions can work as well, but they may alter the sweetness slightly.