Warm & Cozy: Spiced Applesauce Bread Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s infused with the warm spices of fall. This Spiced Applesauce Bread recipe is the embodiment of that cozy feeling. It’s moist, tender, and packed with the flavors of apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Perfect for a crisp autumn morning, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Applesauce Bread

* **Moist and Tender:** The applesauce adds incredible moisture to the bread, ensuring it stays soft and delicious for days.
* **Warm Spices:** A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a comforting and inviting flavor profile.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any special equipment. Even beginner bakers can achieve excellent results.
* **Versatile:** Enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or topped with cream cheese frosting. It’s also a fantastic addition to a brunch spread.
* **Kid-Friendly:** The sweet and spiced flavor is a hit with kids of all ages.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start baking, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

* **All-Purpose Flour:** The base of the bread, providing structure and stability. You can also use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
* **Baking Soda:** A leavening agent that helps the bread rise and become light and airy.
* **Baking Powder:** Another leavening agent that works in conjunction with baking soda for a better rise.
* **Salt:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and controls the leavening process.
* **Ground Cinnamon:** A warm and aromatic spice that is essential for this recipe. Use high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor.
* **Ground Nutmeg:** Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
* **Ground Cloves:** A potent spice that should be used sparingly. It adds a distinct warmth and depth of flavor.
* **Unsalted Butter:** Provides richness and moisture to the bread. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
* **Granulated Sugar:** Adds sweetness and helps to tenderize the bread.
* **Brown Sugar:** Adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor that complements the applesauce and spices.
* **Eggs:** Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the bread. Use large eggs at room temperature.
* **Vanilla Extract:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and adds a touch of sweetness.
* **Applesauce:** The star ingredient! Use unsweetened applesauce for the best results. It adds moisture, flavor, and a hint of natural sweetness.
* **Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (Optional):** Add texture and nutty flavor to the bread. You can also use raisins or dried cranberries.

Ingredient Substitutions

* **Flour:** As mentioned earlier, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used for a gluten-free version. You can also use whole wheat flour, but the bread will be slightly denser.
* **Butter:** Coconut oil or vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for butter. However, the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
* **Sugar:** Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar and brown sugar. However, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe.
* **Eggs:** Flax eggs or applesauce can be used as a substitute for eggs. However, the bread may be slightly less tender.
* **Applesauce:** Mashed banana or pumpkin puree can be used as a substitute for applesauce. However, the flavor will be different.
* **Nuts:** You can use any type of nuts you like, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts. You can also omit the nuts altogether.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **9×5 inch Loaf Pan:** This is the standard size for most bread recipes.
* **Mixing Bowls:** You’ll need at least two mixing bowls: one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients.
* **Electric Mixer:** A stand mixer or hand mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar much easier. However, you can also use a whisk.
* **Spatula:** For scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in the nuts.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **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 step-by-step instructions for perfect Spiced Applesauce Bread:

**Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Loaf Pan**

* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

**Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients**

* In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
* Make sure to whisk thoroughly to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed.

**Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar**

* In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
* Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure that all the ingredients are incorporated.

**Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla**

* Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
* Stir in the vanilla extract.

**Step 5: Add the Applesauce**

* Stir in the applesauce until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

**Step 6: Gradually Add the Dry Ingredients**

* Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
* Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.

**Step 7: Fold in the Nuts (Optional)**

* If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.

**Step 8: Pour the Batter into the Loaf Pan**

* Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.

**Step 9: Bake the Bread**

* Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
* If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil.

**Step 10: Cool the Bread**

* Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
* This will prevent the bread from sticking to the pan.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Spiced Applesauce Bread

* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Room temperature ingredients will combine more easily and create a more even texture.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing can lead to a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
* **Measure Ingredients Accurately:** Accurate measurements are essential for baking success. Use measuring cups and spoons, and level off the ingredients.
* **Don’t Overbake the Bread:** Overbaking can lead to a dry bread. Check for doneness with a toothpick, and remove the bread from the oven as soon as it’s done.
* **Cool the Bread Completely:** Cooling the bread completely before slicing will prevent it from crumbling.

Variations and Additions

This Spiced Applesauce Bread is delicious as is, but here are a few variations and additions to try:

* **Add Chocolate Chips:** Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
* **Add Dried Fruit:** Stir in 1 cup of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for added sweetness and texture.
* **Add a Streusel Topping:** Top the bread with a streusel topping made from flour, sugar, butter, and spices for added flavor and crunch.
* **Add a Cream Cheese Frosting:** Frost the bread with a cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
* **Make Muffins:** Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for 18-20 minutes for spiced applesauce muffins.
* **Add Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle caramel sauce over the bread after baking for an extra touch of sweetness.
* **Experiment with Spices:** Try adding other spices, such as ginger, cardamom, or allspice, to customize the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

* Serve warm with butter or cream cheese.
* Toast and top with your favorite jam or spread.
* Serve as part of a brunch spread.
* Enjoy as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
* Serve as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Instructions

* Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
* For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Spiced Applesauce Bread Recipe

This is the full recipe

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 50-60 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 5 minutes
**Yield:** 1 loaf

Ingredients:

* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs, at room temperature
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Stir in applesauce until just combined.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in nuts, if desired.
8. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy!

Nutrition Information

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

* Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
* Fat: 12g
* Saturated Fat: 7g
* Cholesterol: 40mg
* Sodium: 200mg
* Carbohydrates: 35g
* Sugar: 20g
* Protein: 3g

Conclusion

This Spiced Applesauce Bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture, warm spices, and easy-to-follow recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting aroma and delicious taste of homemade Spiced Applesauce Bread!

FAQs

**Q: Can I use sweetened applesauce?**

A: While you can use sweetened applesauce, it will make the bread even sweeter. You may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe if you do so.

**Q: Can I freeze this bread?**

A: Yes, you can freeze this bread for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

**Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?**

A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture of the bread may be slightly different.

**Q: My bread is dry. What did I do wrong?**

A: Overbaking is the most common cause of dry bread. Make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick and remove the bread from the oven as soon as it’s done. You may have also used too much flour or not enough applesauce.

**Q: My bread is sinking in the middle. What did I do wrong?**

A: This could be due to a few reasons: the oven temperature may be too low, you may not have used enough leavening agent (baking soda and baking powder), or you may have opened the oven door too frequently during baking.

**Q: Can I add a glaze to this bread?**

A: Absolutely! A simple powdered sugar glaze with a touch of milk and vanilla extract would be delicious. You could also add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze.

**Q: Can I use oil instead of butter?**

A: Yes, you can substitute the melted butter with 1/2 cup of vegetable oil or canola oil. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Enjoy Baking!