If you love warm, comforting flavors with a hint of spice, this Applesauce Bread is for you! Packed with moistness from applesauce, richness from brown sugar, and a gentle touch of cinnamon, every bite is pure autumn coziness. Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or paired with a cup of coffee, this quick bread is bound to become a favorite. The best part? It’s simple to make and stays fresh for days. You can customize it by adding nuts, dried apples, or raisins for extra texture and flavor. Plus, with a few healthy swaps, you can make it even more wholesome! Get ready for a deliciously soft, subtly spiced treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups (250g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (150g) light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon cloves
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup canola, vegetable, or safflower oil
- 1 ¼ cups (300g) unsweetened or slightly sweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup yogurt or whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ – 1 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, dried apples, or plumped raisins (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a small bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside 2 tablespoons of this mixture for topping.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, applesauce, yogurt, and vanilla until well combined.
- Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in nuts or dried fruit if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with the reserved sugar topping.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack before removing from the pan. Allow to cool completely before slicing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 215 kcal per slice | Servings: 10 slices
Applesauce Bread: A Moist, Flavorful, and Healthy Treat
Applesauce bread is a deliciously moist, mildly sweet, and warmly spiced quick bread that makes for the perfect breakfast, snack, or even dessert. Made with unsweetened applesauce, brown sugar, and a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this bread is a cozy treat that is easy to prepare and enjoy.
With its deep, comforting flavors and soft texture, applesauce bread is an excellent alternative to traditional banana or pumpkin bread. It offers the same level of moistness but with a delicate apple undertone. Whether you’re a fan of baking or just looking for a simple recipe to satisfy your cravings, this applesauce bread is a must-try.
The Origins of Applesauce Bread
Apples have been a staple ingredient in baking for centuries, often used in pies, cakes, and muffins. Applesauce, in particular, became widely popular in baking during times when fresh apples were not available or when bakers wanted to add natural sweetness and moisture to their recipes.
The idea of incorporating applesauce into quick breads likely originated as a way to use up homemade applesauce while also reducing the need for butter or oil. Since applesauce is naturally moist, it helps create a tender texture in baked goods without requiring large amounts of fat. Over time, applesauce bread became a favorite, especially during the fall months when apple season is in full swing.
Why You Should Bake Applesauce Bread
There are several reasons why applesauce bread is a great recipe to add to your collection:
1. It’s Moist and Flavorful
One of the biggest advantages of using applesauce in baking is the incredible moisture it provides. Unlike some quick breads that can become dry or crumbly, applesauce bread stays soft and tender for days. The brown sugar and warm spices add depth to the flavor, making every bite comforting and delicious.
2. A Healthier Alternative
Many traditional quick breads rely on butter or oil for their rich texture, but applesauce allows you to reduce or even eliminate these fats. This makes applesauce bread a healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture. Plus, using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar content can make it even more nutritious.
3. A Versatile Recipe
Applesauce bread can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Want extra crunch? Add chopped walnuts or pecans. Prefer a stronger apple flavor? Mix in dried apple pieces. Love a little sweetness on top? Sprinkle some cinnamon sugar before baking. The possibilities are endless!
4. Perfect for Any Time of Day
This bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a quick breakfast, a mid-morning snack, or even a light dessert. It pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a warm cup of cider, making it a comforting treat at any time.
Tips for Making the Best Applesauce Bread
To ensure your applesauce bread turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
1. Use High-Quality Applesauce
Since applesauce is the star ingredient in this recipe, it’s best to use a good-quality, unsweetened version. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making homemade applesauce for an even fresher flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing quick bread batter can result in a dense and tough loaf. To keep your bread light and tender, mix the ingredients just until they are combined.
3. Add Texture with Mix-Ins
While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can enhance the texture by adding chopped nuts, dried apples, raisins, or even chocolate chips. These additions bring extra layers of flavor and a satisfying bite.
4. Check for Doneness Properly
Quick breads can sometimes appear done on the outside while still being undercooked inside. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready.
5. Let It Cool Before Slicing
Although it might be tempting to cut into your applesauce bread right away, allowing it to cool completely helps it set properly and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about applesauce bread is its versatility when it comes to serving. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Toasted with Butter – Lightly toast a slice and spread with butter for a warm and comforting breakfast.
- Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup – For a little extra sweetness, drizzle a warm slice with honey or maple syrup.
- Topped with Cream Cheese or Nut Butter – A layer of cream cheese or almond butter adds a creamy texture and a hint of richness.
- Served with Fresh Fruit – Pair your applesauce bread with fresh apple slices, berries, or bananas for a well-rounded snack.
- Paired with a Hot Beverage – A slice of this bread goes perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or spiced apple cider.
Storing and Freezing Applesauce Bread
Proper storage is key to keeping your applesauce bread fresh and moist. Here’s how to store it properly:
Short-Term Storage
- Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- If you live in a humid climate, storing it in the fridge can help maintain freshness.
Long-Term Freezing
- Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw slices at room temperature or warm them up in the toaster oven.
Conclusion:
Applesauce bread is a fantastic homemade treat that combines warmth, comfort, and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you enjoy it as a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert, this moist and flavorful loaf is sure to become a favorite in your household.
With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and healthy benefits, applesauce bread is a recipe worth keeping in your collection. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable add your favorite mix-ins, adjust the spices, or even experiment with different flour combinations to create a loaf that suits your taste perfectly.