If you are looking for a cozy, flavorful treat to brighten your day, this Applesauce Bread Recipe is just the ticket. This delightful loaf is perfectly moist and tender, with the natural sweetness and subtle tang of applesauce shining through each bite. The warm spices and optional add-ins like nuts or dried fruit add layers of texture and flavor that make this bread feel truly special, whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients you probably already have, and fills your kitchen with the most welcoming aroma. Let me take you through everything you need to know to bake this wonderful Applesauce Bread Recipe yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with straightforward ingredients, each playing an important role in creating the perfect balance of taste, moisture, and crumb texture. From spices that add warmth to the applesauce that keeps the bread tender and flavorful, every item on this list is a key player.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend): The base of the bread providing structure and the right crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help your bread rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives that classic warm, comforting spice note.
- Optional 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cloves: Adds extra depth and cozy spiciness if you like.
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce: The star ingredient that keeps the bread moist and adds natural sweetness.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Helps bind ingredients and contributes to a tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup sugar (or maple syrup): Sweetens the bread; feel free to adjust to your preference.
- 1/3 cup oil or melted butter: Adds richness and moistness to every slice.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet flavors and spices.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: For a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor (optional).
- 1/2 cup raisins, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips: Adds chewiness and bursts of flavor (optional).
How to Make Applesauce Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Oven
Start by gathering all your ingredients and setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures your lovely bread will come out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg or cloves. Combining these dry ingredients thoroughly helps distribute the spices evenly so every bite bursts with warming flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Add the unsweetened applesauce, sugar (or maple syrup), oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until smooth and the sugar starts to dissolve—this step makes sure your bread will have a consistent sweetness and moisture balance.
Step 4: Bring the Batter Together
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold the two together until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender and soft rather than dense and tough.
Step 5: Add Optional Mix-Ins
Now is the time to fold in your favorite extras like chopped walnuts, raisins, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips. These add wonderful texture and variety to the bread, making each slice an exciting treat.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Pop it into your preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out completely clean — no sticky batter remaining.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow your bread to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps the bread set fully and makes slicing easier and cleaner.
How to Serve Applesauce Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet delightful touch, spread a pat of butter or cream cheese on a warm slice. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey also complements the natural sweetness beautifully, turning each bite into a little celebration.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or afternoon snack time. You can also serve it alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or yogurt to add freshness and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not toast the slices and top them with almond butter and sliced bananas for a nutritious start? Or turn it into a decadent dessert by layering slices with whipped cream and cinnamon-dusted apples for a quick trifle or parfait. The versatility of this Applesauce Bread Recipe means the possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Applesauce Bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. The bread’s moist texture helps it stay tender even when stored.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this bread later, slice it and freeze the portions individually wrapped in plastic or foil. Frozen applesauce bread stays great for up to 3 months, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks on busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop a slice into the toaster or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on the edges. This breathes new life into the bread and enhances its comforting aroma.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?
Yes, but keep in mind that sweetened applesauce will add extra sugar to your recipe, so you might want to reduce the added sugar slightly to avoid an overly sweet bread.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of your choice, making sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best texture.
Can I substitute the oil with butter?
Yes, melted butter works beautifully in this recipe and gives the bread a richer flavor. Just keep the quantity the same, and ensure it’s fully melted before mixing.
How can I make the bread more moist?
Make sure not to overmix the batter, and consider adding an extra 2 tablespoons of applesauce or a splash of milk if you want even more moisture.
What are the best mix-ins to use?
Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch, while raisins or dried cranberries bring a pleasant chewiness. Chocolate chips offer a deliciously sweet surprise. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!
Final Thoughts
I am genuinely excited for you to try this Applesauce Bread Recipe because it brings the perfect blend of cozy spices, natural sweetness, and fluffy texture into one wonderful loaf. Whether you are baking for your family, friends, or just treating yourself, this bread is a winner every time. Take your time with each step, enjoy the process, and savor every comforting bite!
Print
Applesauce Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This moist and flavorful Applesauce Bread is a delightful twist on traditional quick breads, using unsweetened applesauce to add natural sweetness and moisture. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and optional nutmeg or cloves, it’s a perfect snack or breakfast option. The addition of nuts and dried fruits or chocolate chips adds texture and bursts of flavor, making each slice irresistible.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cloves for extra spice
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar (or reduce slightly or substitute with maple syrup)
- 1/3 cup oil (vegetable or canola) or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins (Optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup raisins, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and any additional spices until evenly combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Add the applesauce, sugar, oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar begins to dissolve.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold together with a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Add Optional Ingredients: Carefully fold in any optional ingredients such as nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overworking the batter.
- Bake the Bread: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Slice: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to help it set and achieve clean slices.
Notes
- You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this bread gluten-free.
- For added sweetness without refined sugar, try substituting sugar with pure maple syrup, but reduce the quantity slightly due to liquid content.
- Toasting nuts before adding them can enhance their flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter once wet and dry ingredients are combined to keep the bread tender.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
