Applesauce Bread is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the comforting texture of freshly baked bread. This recipe has its roots in the early 20th century, when home bakers sought ways to utilize leftover applesauce, making it a staple in many households. The beauty of Applesauce Bread lies not only in its rich flavor but also in its moist, tender crumb, which is perfect for breakfast or as a snack any time of the day.
People love this dish for its simplicity and convenience; it requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in no time. The addition of applesauce not only enhances the taste but also keeps the bread incredibly moist, making each slice a delightful experience. Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon, Applesauce Bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that brings warmth and joy to every bite!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Preparing the Batter
Lets get started on making this delicious applesauce bread! First, I like to gather all my ingredients and tools. Youll need a mixing bowl, a whisk, a spatula, and a loaf pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so its nice and hot when were ready to bake.
- In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them together until they are well mixed. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Use a whisk to mix them together until they are well blended. The mixture should be smooth and slightly creamy.
- Add the eggs to the sugar and oil mixture, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, making the bread light and fluffy.
- Next, stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The applesauce not only adds flavor but also keeps the bread moist.
- Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. I like to do this in three parts, folding the flour mixture into the wet mixture gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- If youre using nuts or dried fruit, fold them in at this stage. They add a lovely texture and flavor to the bread.
Cooking Process
Now that our batter is ready, its time to bake this delightful bread!
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter. This will help the bread release easily once its baked.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure to spread it evenly so it bakes uniformly.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. I usually start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark. You can do this by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, its done!
- Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the bread to set and makes it easier to remove.
- After cooling, carefully run a knife around the edges of the bread to loosen it from the pan. Then, turn the pan upside down and gently tap it to release the bread. If it doesnt come out easily, give it a little shake or use the knife to help it along.
Assembling and Serving
Now that your applesauce bread is out of the pan and cooling on a wire rack, its time to think about how to enjoy it!
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing. This helps to maintain its structure and makes for cleaner slices.
- Once cooled, slice the bread into thick or thin slices, depending on your preference. I love a nice thick slice with a pat of butter on top!
- This bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with cream cheese, apple butter, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a little extra sweetness.
- If you have leftovers (which is rare
Conclusion:
In wrapping up this delightful journey into the world of Applesauce Bread, I cant emphasize enough why this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of warmth and comfort to their baking repertoire. The combination of moist, tender bread infused with the natural sweetness of applesauce makes for a treat thats not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast option, a midday snack, or a cozy dessert, this bread is sure to become a staple in your home. For serving suggestions, I love to slather a warm slice with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of indulgence. You can also pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. If youre feeling adventurous, consider adding nuts, raisins, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for a unique twist that caters to your taste buds. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Applesauce Bread recipe and make it your own! Dont forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let them in on the secret of this scrumptious treat. Whether you bake it for yourself or gift it to someone special, I promise it will bring smiles all around. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and lets get baking! I cant wait to hear how your Applesauce Bread turns out! Print
Applesauce Bread: A Deliciously Moist Recipe for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
Description
This moist and flavorful applesauce bread is a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With warm spices and the option to add nuts or dried fruit, its a comforting classic thats easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients
- all-purpose flour
- whole wheat flour (optional)
- unsweetened applesauce
- nuts (optional)
- dried fruits (optional)
Instructions
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
Notes
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
- For a healthier version, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Make sure to use unsweetened applesauce to control the sweetness of the bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
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