This Applesauce Bread is a moist, lightly spiced quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it’s a cozy treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With the natural sweetness of unsweetened applesauce, this bread is wholesome yet indulgent—perfect for any occasion.
📋 Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (or substitute brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
- ½ cup raisins (for extra texture and sweetness)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce , sugar , oil , eggs , and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour , baking soda , baking powder , cinnamon , nutmeg , and cloves . This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should be slightly lumpy.
- If using, fold in optional chopped nuts or raisins for added texture.
Step 5: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover the pan with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes , then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve once cooled. For an extra touch, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before serving.
Tips for Success
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week .
- Freezing: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for an extra layer of warmth.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Applesauce Bread is a comforting, aromatic treat that’s simple to make yet full of flavor. The unsweetened applesauce keeps the bread moist while adding a subtle fruity undertone, while the spices create a cozy, fall-inspired aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. Whether you’re craving a slice with a pat of butter, enjoying it plain, or gifting it to a friend, this bread is sure to delight. Dive into this soft, spiced loaf and let it bring a taste of home to your day!