This Easy Cinnamon Applesauce Bread is a warm and cozy treat! Made with simple ingredients like applesauce, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla, it’s perfect for snacking or breakfast.
It smells amazing while baking, like a warm hug! I love having a slice with my morning coffee, or just sneaking a piece when nobody’s looking. It’s that good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Applesauce: This is essential for moisture. I recommend using unsweetened applesauce for a balanced sweetness. If you don’t have any, mashed bananas can work as a substitute, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the best results, but you could use whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf. Just keep in mind it might become a bit denser. For a gluten-free option, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Oils: I prefer vegetable oil for its neutral flavor, but melted butter adds a nice richness. Coconut oil can also work well and give a subtle coconut taste, which I love!
Sugars: The combination of granulated and brown sugar adds depth to the sweetness. For a less sugary bread, reduce the amounts slightly, or use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener; just adjust the liquids accordingly.
How Can I Ensure My Bread is Light and Fluffy?
The key to a light and fluffy cinnamon applesauce bread is all in the mixing technique. Be careful not to overmix the batter after you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Mix just until you see no more dry flour lumps. It’s okay to have some small lumps; they will bake out.
- Make sure your baking soda is fresh, as it helps the bread rise well.
- Let the bread cool in the pan briefly to set, then transfer it to a wire rack for better air circulation around it.
Easy Cinnamon Applesauce Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus 50-60 minutes for baking. After baking, allow about 10 minutes for cooling in the pan, and then let it cool further on a wire rack before slicing. So, in total, you will need about 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this delicious bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or you can make things easier by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients together well. This helps to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and egg. Mix until the mixture is smooth. Then, add in the applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well blended and smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this could make your bread dense. A few small lumps are perfectly fine!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes evenly.
6. Bake the Bread:
Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
7. Cool and Serve:
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice it up and serve it plain or with a little butter spread on top. Enjoy your delightful cinnamon applesauce bread!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Store-Bought Applesauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought unsweetened applesauce works great for this recipe and saves time. If you prefer homemade, just make sure to blend the apples until smooth and remove any extra liquid.
How Do I Store Leftover Applesauce Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Nuts or Dried Fruits?
Yes! Feel free to mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or dried fruits (like raisins or cranberries) for added texture and flavor. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into the loaf pan.
What Should I Do If My Bread is Too Dense?
Dense bread can result from overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour accurately and mix gently when combining the wet and dry ingredients. If you suspect your baking soda is old, consider replacing it to ensure a proper rise.
