Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bread combines the warmth of cinnamon with the natural sweetness and moisture of applesauce, making it an irresistible treat. It’s easy to prepare in just 10 minutes and requires simple pantry ingredients. The versatility of this recipe also means you can customize it with raisins, nuts, or even apple chunks. Whether you’re looking for a fall-inspired snack or a quick breakfast bread, this recipe hits the mark every time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or coconut oil for a healthier option)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup milk (2% works best)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or mini loaf pans.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the applesauce, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and milk. Mix until smooth.
- Slowly add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan(s) and bake for 30 minutes for mini loaves, or about 60 minutes for a large loaf.
- Test with a toothpick—once it comes out clean from the center, remove from the oven.
- Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes for mini loaves, 55-60 minutes for a full loaf
- Total Time: 40-70 minutes
Variations
- Add-ins: Stir in 1/2 cup of raisins or nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
- Apple Chunks: Peel and chop an apple into small pieces and add it to the batter for a fresh apple boost.
- Crumb Topping: Create a crumb topping by mixing 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup oats, 1/2 cup flour, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon with 3 tablespoons melted butter, and sprinkle it on top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store completely cooled bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: For longer freshness, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave or oven for a few minutes to enjoy fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, coconut oil works as a substitute for vegetable oil if you prefer a healthier option.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this bread gluten-free.
How can I make this bread sweeter?
You can add more sugar to taste or include a few tablespoons of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
Can I add other spices?
Certainly! You can adjust the spice blend by adding a little more cinnamon or even a pinch of ginger for a more robust flavor.
Can I bake this recipe in muffin form?
Yes! If you want to make muffins, bake the batter in a muffin tin at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
Can I use sweetened applesauce?
Sweetened applesauce can be used, but you might want to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe to avoid making the bread too sweet.
Can I add chocolate chips to this bread?
Yes, chocolate chips would be a great addition for a delicious twist.
How long will this bread last at room temperature?
It will stay fresh for about 3 days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze the batter?
Yes, you can freeze the batter in a loaf pan and bake it directly from frozen. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Can I add other fruits, like pears or peaches?
Yes, diced pears or peaches can be added to the batter for a different fruity flavor.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Applesauce Bread is a perfect blend of warm spices and tender moisture, making it an irresistible treat. Easy to make with pantry staples, it’s the perfect recipe for breakfast, snacks, or even a gift for friends and family. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Cinnamon Applesauce Bread
Cinnamon Applesauce Bread is a soft, moist quick bread filled with warm fall spices, the perfect balance of sweetness, and a tender texture. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this bread is easy to prepare and perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a cozy treat. With its irresistible aroma and comforting flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes for mini loaves, 55-60 minutes for a full loaf
- Total Time: 40-70 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 slices
- Category: Bread, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or coconut oil for a healthier option)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup milk (2% works best)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or mini loaf pans. - Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine applesauce, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and milk. Stir until smooth. - Add Dry Ingredients:
Slowly add flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix until just combined. - Bake:
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan(s). Bake mini loaves for 30 minutes or a full loaf for 55-60 minutes. Test with a toothpick—once it comes out clean, remove from oven. - Cool & Serve:
Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Add-ins: Add raisins, nuts (pecans or walnuts), or apple chunks for added texture and flavor.
- Crumb Topping: Mix ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup oats, ½ cup flour, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon with 3 tablespoons melted butter for a delicious crumb topping.
