Fall Baking Bliss: Applesauce Pumpkin Spice Bread Recipe

Fall is the season of cozy sweaters, vibrant foliage, and, of course, the irresistible aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin spice wafting from the kitchen. What better way to embrace the autumnal spirit than by baking a loaf of warm, comforting applesauce pumpkin spice bread? This recipe combines the best of both worlds – the moistness and subtle sweetness of applesauce with the classic, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the results are simply divine. Imagine slicing into a perfectly golden loaf, the tender crumb practically melting in your mouth with each bite. Serve it warm with a pat of butter, a dollop of cream cheese, or simply enjoy it on its own with a cup of hot coffee or tea. This bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, a midday snack, or even dessert. Get ready to fill your home with the irresistible scent of fall and delight your taste buds with this extraordinary applesauce pumpkin spice bread!

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore why this particular applesauce pumpkin spice bread is a winner:

* **Incredibly Moist:** The applesauce adds a significant amount of moisture to the batter, resulting in a bread that stays soft and tender for days. No more dry, crumbly loaves!
* **Perfectly Spiced:** The blend of pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm, comforting flavor that is quintessentially fall.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is straightforward and simple, making it perfect for beginner bakers. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques.
* **Versatile:** This bread can be enjoyed in countless ways. Toast it, grill it, spread it with your favorite toppings, or use it to make French toast. The possibilities are endless!
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Bake a double batch and freeze one loaf for later. It thaws beautifully and tastes just as good as fresh.
* **Kid-Friendly:** The subtle sweetness and soft texture make this bread a hit with kids of all ages.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start baking, gather all your ingredients. This will make the process smoother and ensure you don’t forget anything crucial.

* **All-Purpose Flour:** 3 cups (360g). Provides the structure for the bread. You can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
* **Granulated Sugar:** 1 1/2 cups (300g). Adds sweetness and contributes to the bread’s tender texture. You can reduce the amount slightly if you prefer a less sweet bread.
* **Baking Soda:** 1 teaspoon. A leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
* **Baking Powder:** 1 teaspoon. Another leavening agent that works in conjunction with baking soda to create a light and airy crumb.
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon. Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **Pumpkin Pie Spice:** 2 teaspoons. The star of the show! This blend typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
* **Ground Cinnamon:** 1 teaspoon. Adds extra warmth and depth of flavor.
* **Ground Nutmeg:** 1/2 teaspoon. Provides a subtle warmth and nutty aroma.
* **Eggs:** 2 large. Binds the ingredients together and adds richness and moisture.
* **Vegetable Oil:** 1/2 cup (120ml). Contributes to the bread’s moistness. You can use canola oil, sunflower oil, or any other neutral-flavored oil.
* **Applesauce:** 1 cup (240ml), unsweetened. Adds moisture and a subtle apple flavor. Make sure to use unsweetened applesauce so the bread doesn’t become too sweet.
* **Pumpkin Puree:** 1 cup (240ml). Adds flavor, moisture, and that signature pumpkin color.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon. Enhances the other flavors and adds a touch of sweetness.
* **Optional Add-ins:** 1 cup (chocolate chips, chopped nuts, raisins, dried cranberries). Feel free to customize the bread with your favorite add-ins.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Two 9×5 inch Loaf Pans:** These are the standard size for loaf breads. Make sure they are well-greased or lined with parchment paper.
* **Mixing Bowls:** You’ll need two mixing bowls: one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients.
* **Whisk:** For combining the dry ingredients.
* **Spatula:** For scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding the wet and dry ingredients together.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** Accurate measuring is essential for baking success.
* **Measuring Spoons:** Measuring smaller quantities of ingredients like spices and extracts accurately is essential.
* **Oven:** Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
* **Wire Rack:** For cooling the bread after baking.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps for a perfect loaf of applesauce pumpkin spice bread.

**Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans**

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9×5 inch loaf pans with cooking spray or butter. For easier removal, you can also line the pans with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will allow you to easily lift the bread out of the pan after baking.

**Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients**

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure to whisk well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This will prevent pockets of baking soda or spice in the finished bread.

**Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients**

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure there are no streaks of egg yolk remaining. The mixture should be smooth and uniform in color.

**Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until the dry ingredients are just moistened.

**Step 5: Add Optional Add-ins (Optional)**

If you’re using any add-ins, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries, gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix.

**Step 6: Pour Batter into Pans**

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Spread the batter evenly in each pan to ensure that the bread bakes uniformly.

**Step 7: Bake the Bread**

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to check the bread regularly. If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil.

**Step 8: Cool the Bread**

Let the bread cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent the bread from sticking to the pan and allow it to cool evenly. Let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

## Tips for Baking the Perfect Applesauce Pumpkin Spice Bread

* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Using room temperature eggs and applesauce will help the batter come together more easily and result in a more evenly baked bread.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until the dry ingredients are just moistened.
* **Measure Accurately:** Accurate measuring is essential for baking success. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure that you are using the correct amounts of each ingredient.
* **Check for Doneness:** Use a wooden skewer to check for doneness. If the skewer comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, the bread is done.
* **Cool Completely:** Let the bread cool completely before slicing and serving. This will prevent it from crumbling.

## Variations and Add-ins

This applesauce pumpkin spice bread recipe is delicious as is, but feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins and variations.

* **Chocolate Chip Applesauce Pumpkin Spice Bread:** Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent treat.
* **Nutty Applesauce Pumpkin Spice Bread:** Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, to the batter for added texture and flavor.
* **Dried Fruit Applesauce Pumpkin Spice Bread:** Add 1 cup of dried fruit, such as raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apricots, to the batter for a chewy and sweet addition.
* **Cream Cheese Swirl Applesauce Pumpkin Spice Bread:** Swirl a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract into the batter before baking for a rich and creamy twist.
* **Maple Glazed Applesauce Pumpkin Spice Bread:** Drizzle a maple glaze over the cooled bread for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for a spicier flavor profile.
* **Add Citrus Zest:** A teaspoon of orange or lemon zest can brighten the flavors.
* **Streusel Topping:** Create a buttery streusel topping with flour, oats, brown sugar, and spices for a crunchy top layer.
* **Vegan Applesauce Pumpkin Spice Bread:** Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Use plant-based milk instead of cow’s milk if you want to add some liquid.

## Serving Suggestions

Applesauce pumpkin spice bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways.

* **Slice and Serve:** Simply slice the bread and serve it warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese.
* **Toast It:** Toast slices of the bread for a crispy and flavorful breakfast or snack.
* **Grill It:** Grill slices of the bread for a warm and caramelized treat.
* **French Toast:** Use the bread to make French toast for a decadent breakfast or brunch.
* **Sandwiches:** Use the bread to make sandwiches with your favorite fillings.
* **Dessert:** Serve the bread as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
* **Pair with Coffee or Tea:** Enjoy a slice with your favorite hot beverage.
* **Gift Giving:** Wrap a loaf in festive paper and give it as a thoughtful homemade gift.

## Storage Instructions

To keep your applesauce pumpkin spice bread fresh, store it properly.

* **Room Temperature:** Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
* **Refrigerator:** Store the bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
* **Freezer:** Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

## Recipe Card

**Applesauce Pumpkin Spice Bread**

A moist and flavorful loaf perfect for fall!

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 50-60 minutes
**Yield:** 2 loaves

**Ingredients:**

* 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
* 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
* 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened applesauce
* 1 cup (240ml) pumpkin puree
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips, chopped nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5 inch loaf pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, applesauce, pumpkin puree, and vanilla.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix.
5. Fold in optional add-ins, if using.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pans.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.

## Final Thoughts

This applesauce pumpkin spice bread is a true celebration of fall flavors. It’s easy to make, incredibly moist, and perfectly spiced. Whether you’re enjoying a slice for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this bread is sure to warm your heart and soul. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a loaf of fall baking bliss! Enjoy!

Don’t forget to share your baking creations with us on social media using #ApplesaucePumpkinSpiceBread! We can’t wait to see your delicious loaves!