1. Prepare Your Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures an even rise and consistent flavor throughout the loaf.
3. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk oil and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in applesauce and vanilla.
Gradually fold in dry ingredients until just combined — don’t overmix, or your bread may turn dense. If using nuts or raisins, gently fold them in now.
4. Bake the Bread
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Slice thick and serve warm with butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey. Leftovers keep well for up to 4 days in an airtight container — if they last that long!
Why Applesauce Works So Well in Bread
Applesauce isn’t just a flavor booster. It:
- Keeps the bread moist without making it heavy.
- Adds natural sweetness so you can use less sugar.
- Cuts down on fat if you replace part of the oil or butter with applesauce.
- Infuses a gentle apple flavor that pairs beautifully with warm spices.
Make It Your Own
- For a healthier loaf, swap half the flour for whole wheat.
- For a dessert-style version, add chocolate chips and a glaze drizzle.
- For a fall-inspired loaf, mix in chopped apples and top with a cinnamon streusel.
This applesauce bread is proof that simple ingredients can deliver amazing results. One slice, and you’ll never look at applesauce the same way again!