If you are looking for a cozy, delicious treat that fills your kitchen with the warm scents of cinnamon and nutmeg, this Applesauce Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the natural sweetness and moisture of unsweetened applesauce with a perfect blend of spices to create a soft, tender loaf that’s just begging to be sliced and shared. Whether as a breakfast companion or an anytime snack, this bread is incredibly easy to make and brings an inviting flavor that feels like a comforting hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here—each ingredient in this Applesauce Bread Recipe is chosen to deliver the perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma. They work together to create a moist, flavorful loaf that’s spiced just right.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the bread’s tender crumb and structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and keeps it light.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Provides extra lift for a fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Intensifies the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and aromatic spice, essential for that classic applesauce flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings subtle earthiness and depth to the spice blend.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way, adding a gentle, spicy hint.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread without overpowering the apples.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and a touch of caramel richness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and provide richness.
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce: The star ingredient that brings moisture and natural fruit sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, mellow note.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor, if you like a bit of texture.
How to Make Applesauce Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper—this simple step ensures your fabulous applesauce bread comes out cleanly and beautifully.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This fragrant blend of spices paired with your dry ingredients will infuse your bread with that cozy, spiced flavor that’s so inviting.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth. The applesauce makes this batter so moist and luscious—it’s like liquid sunshine in your bowl.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently and just until combined to avoid overmixing. If you’re including nuts, fold them in now to add that wonderful crunch—walnuts or pecans work beautifully here.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for the perfect slice that holds its shape and texture.
How to Serve Applesauce Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your applesauce bread with a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light spread of softened butter or cream cheese for a creamy contrast. A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top just before serving can add an extra touch of elegance and crunch.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal snack or breakfast companion. For a more hearty brunch, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt to balance the sweet spices.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bread and toasting it lightly, then topping slices with apple butter, honey, or a smear of nut butter for a tasty variation. You can even cut it into cubes and serve as part of a dessert bread pudding or French toast for an indulgent twist on your favorite dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your applesauce bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It stays moist and flavorful, making it easy to enjoy anytime.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
Warm slices in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds to revive that fresh-baked warmth and softness. This little touch makes each bite taste freshly made, perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon treats.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?
Yes, you can, but since this recipe already includes sugar, using sweetened applesauce might make the bread a bit sweeter than intended. You may want to reduce the granulated sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
Is it necessary to use both baking soda and baking powder?
Yes, the combination of baking soda and baking powder helps the bread rise properly and achieve the right texture. The baking soda neutralizes the acidity from the applesauce while the baking powder ensures a light, fluffy crumb.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with something healthier?
Absolutely. Substituting half the vegetable oil with Greek yogurt is a fantastic way to add moisture and a slight tang while cutting down on fat. It also contributes extra protein and richness.
How can I add more flavor variations to this Applesauce Bread Recipe?
You can mix in raisins, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips to give your bread a unique twist. Just fold them into the batter along with the nuts for extra texture and bursts of flavor.
What’s the best way to slice the bread without crumbling?
Make sure the bread is completely cooled before slicing, as warm bread tends to crumble. Using a serrated knife and slicing gently with a sawing motion ensures clean, neat slices every time.
Final Thoughts
This Applesauce Bread Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves simple homemade baked goods that taste incredible and fill the home with warmth. It’s easy enough for weeknight baking but special enough to impress friends and family. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new go-to for cozy mornings or thoughtful gifts.
Print
Applesauce Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices) 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Applesauce Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread packed with warm spices and the natural sweetness of applesauce. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it combines cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for a comforting fall-inspired treat. Optional nuts add a delightful crunch, making it a versatile and easy-to-make loaf.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves thoroughly to ensure the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Add nuts (optional): If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans carefully to incorporate them into the batter.
- Pour batter and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to preserve its structure and flavor.
Notes
- This bread stays moist for several days and tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld.
- You can add raisins or chocolate chips for a delicious variation.
- For a healthier version, substitute half the vegetable oil with Greek yogurt to reduce fat while keeping moisture.
