Spiced Applesauce Bread is the ultimate cozy treat for any season, combining warm spices with the subtle sweetness of applesauce in a moist, tender loaf. If you’re tired of the same old banana bread, this easy-to-make alternative offers a fresh twist that’s both comforting and exciting. With just 10 minutes of prep, this quick bread is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Whether you’re baking for your family, a potluck, or just for yourself, this spiced applesauce bread delivers delightful flavors and aromas that everyone will love. Ready to upgrade your baking game?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Spiced: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and ginger creates a warming, aromatic experience in every bite.
- Super Moist Texture: Thanks to applesauce, sour cream, and melted butter, this bread stays incredibly moist without being dense.
- Versatile Snack: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or a delightful dessert.
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep time and straightforward instructions make this a no-fuss recipe.
- Great for Gifting: Wrapped up, it makes a charming homemade gift during the holidays or as a thank-you treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (use extra if your applesauce is unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or extract)
How to Make Spiced Applesauce Bread
- Prepare the Pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal, and lightly grease it.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and ginger.
- Blend Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, sugars, butter, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, folding gently until just blended. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Bake the Bread: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, checking with a toothpick—it should come out with a few soft crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread rest in the pan on a wire rack for 20 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment and cool completely.
Helpful Tips
- Underbake Slightly: For a perfectly tender crumb, remove the bread when a few moist crumbs cling to the toothpick.
- Overnight Storage Tip: Place a slice of fresh bread on top of the cooled loaf before covering it. This keeps the spiced bread moist overnight.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Substitutions And Variations
- Applesauce: Use chunky applesauce for added texture or try flavored varieties like cinnamon or pear.
- Butter Alternatives: Swap melted butter with coconut oil or a neutral oil for a dairy-free option.
- Add-ins: Mix in a half cup of chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for extra flair.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this bread ahead of time? Yes! The flavor improves after resting overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Can I freeze spiced applesauce bread? Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use sweetened applesauce? Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
Storage Instructions
- At Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
This Spiced Applesauce Bread is the cozy, aromatic treat your kitchen’s been missing. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any time of day. Ready to switch things up from your usual banana bread? Give this recipe a try, share your baking success in the comments, and don’t forget to explore our other delicious quick bread recipes. Happy baking!
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Spiced Applesauce Bread Recipe: A Cozy Classic Reinvented
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (9x5-inch), ~10–12 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Spiced Applesauce Bread is a moist, warmly spiced quick bread that’s easy to make with pantry staples. This cozy loaf comes together in just 10 minutes of prep—perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a sweet treat. Bake, slice, and share it today!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Wet Ingredients:
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal, and lightly grease it.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and ginger.
- Blend Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, sugars, butter, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, folding gently until just blended. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Bake the Bread: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, checking with a toothpick—it should come out with a few soft crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread rest in the pan on a wire rack for 20 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment and cool completely.
Notes
For extra moisture, cover cooled loaf with a slice of fresh bread overnight—your spiced bread will stay bakery-soft. This recipe freezes beautifully; double it and save a loaf for later!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes Additional Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 234
- Sugar: 19.6g
- Carbohydrates: 34.7g
- Protein: 3.1g