This moist applesauce bread is soft, tender, and filled with warm cinnamon and nutmeg. Applesauce adds natural moisture and sweetness, making this an easy and comforting loaf for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the Eggs and Applesauce
Beat in the eggs one at a time. Add the applesauce and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
5. Combine the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries if desired.
6. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Best Applesauce Bread
- Use unsweetened applesauce so you can control the sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can make the bread dense.
- Use softened butter for a smoother batter.
- Check the bread with a toothpick before removing it from the oven.
- If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the final part of baking.
Easy Variations
Add Nuts
Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Add Dried Fruit
Dried cranberries or raisins pair beautifully with the warm spices.
Extra Spice
Add a small amount of ground cloves or allspice for a stronger fall flavor.
Streusel Topping
Top the batter with a simple mixture of flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon before baking.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Wrap tightly or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy slices of applesauce bread:
- Warm with butter
- With cream cheese
- Toasted with a little honey
- Alongside coffee or tea
- As an easy breakfast or afternoon snack
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Yes. Add up to ½ cup of chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or raisins.
Can I replace applesauce?
Mashed banana or pureed pear can work as substitutes, although the flavor and texture will change slightly.
Why is my applesauce bread dense?
Overmixing the batter or adding too much flour can make the bread dense. Mix only until the ingredients are combined and measure the flour accurately.
Can I freeze applesauce bread?
Yes. Cool the bread completely, slice it, wrap the slices individually, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I make this into muffins?
Yes. Divide the batter among a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20–25 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
Enjoy!
This soft and flavorful applesauce bread is an easy way to enjoy warm fall spices in every slice.