Applesauce Bread is a timeless, comforting loaf that combines warm spices, natural sweetness, and soft texture in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, tea-time, or a wholesome snack, this bread uses applesauce as the star ingredient, making it incredibly moist without the need for excessive butter or oil. It’s an ideal recipe for those looking to bake something delicious yet healthier, and it fills your kitchen with the cozy aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade applesauce, this recipe is simple, foolproof, and can easily be customized with nuts, raisins, or a touch of vanilla. It also stores well, making it great for meal prep or gifting.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Add the eggs to the wet mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract if using.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
If desired, fold in the chopped nuts and raisins or cranberries at this stage for extra texture and flavor.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy the applesauce bread as-is, or spread with butter, cream cheese, or nut butter for an even more satisfying bite.
Tips for Best Results
Use unsweetened applesauce to control the sweetness and avoid making the bread too sugary.
If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute melted butter for the oil.
You can add a streusel topping made of oats, sugar, and butter for a bakery-style finish.
To store, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
This Applesauce Bread strikes the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. With its soft crumb, subtle sweetness, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.