This Applesauce Bread is a moist, lightly spiced quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Made with unsweetened applesauce, it’s a simple and wholesome treat with a tender crumb and a hint of cinnamon. Add chopped walnuts for extra crunch, or enjoy it plain—it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 60 minutes
Total Time
- 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings
- 8–10 slices
Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter , softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter, oil, or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour , baking soda , salt , and cinnamon . Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes .
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Beat in the eggs , one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract .
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the applesauce . Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts .
Step 6: Bake the Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes .
- Run a knife around the edges of the pan, then carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Pro Tips
- Applesauce Swap: Use sweetened applesauce if you prefer a sweeter bread, and reduce the sugar by 2 tablespoons.
- Add-Ins: Customize your bread with raisins, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or chocolate chips instead of walnuts.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days , or refrigerate for up to 1 week . For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months .
- Glaze Option: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread for a sweet finish.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, based on 10 slices)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Applesauce Bread is a delightful blend of sweetness, spice, and moisture, thanks to the unsweetened applesauce. It’s quick to make, requires no fancy equipment, and fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon while baking. Whether you’re looking for a cozy snack or a homemade gift, this bread is sure to impress.
Ready to bake a loaf of pure comfort? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of soft, spiced goodness—it’s like fall in every bite!
