The Ultimate Moist & Flavorful Applesauce Bread Recipe

Discover how to bake the most delicious Applesauce Bread—a perfectly moist and tender quick bread infused with warm, comforting spices. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and is ideal for a delightful breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a heartwarming treat during the cozy fall season and beyond.

There’s something incredibly comforting about a freshly baked loaf of quick bread, and this Applesauce Bread stands out as a true family favorite. It’s a remarkably simple recipe that yields impressive results: a loaf so incredibly moist, thanks to the natural sweetness and binding power of applesauce, and wonderfully aromatic with a blend of warm, inviting spices. While often associated with autumn baking, its delightful flavor makes it a welcome treat any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast option, an energizing afternoon pick-me-up, or a thoughtful homemade gift for loved ones, this bread is guaranteed to bring smiles.

For those who love easy-to-bake delights, quick breads are a fantastic category to explore. If you enjoy the simplicity and rich flavors of this recipe, you might also like to try other comforting varieties such as Sweet Bread, Cinnamon Bread, Blueberry Banana Bread, and even a fun Cinnamon Roll Bread. Other crowd-pleasers include Strawberry Banana Bread and Orange Cranberry Bread, perfect for adding a fruity twist to your baking repertoire.

Why This Applesauce Bread Recipe Shines

This Applesauce Bread isn’t just another quick bread; it’s a culinary hug in loaf form. Here’s why it consistently earns rave reviews and becomes a go-to recipe for so many:

• Unrivaled Moist and Tender Texture: The star ingredient, applesauce, works wonders, keeping the bread incredibly soft and moist without any heavy or greasy feel. Each bite melts in your mouth, a testament to perfect quick bread consistency.
• Warm, Inviting Flavor Profile: A thoughtful blend of cinnamon and other comforting spices creates an aroma and taste that evoke feelings of home and coziness. It’s the kind of flavor that makes you want to curl up with a good book and a slice of bread.
• Crafted with Simple Pantry Staples: You likely already have most of the ingredients needed for this recipe in your kitchen. This makes it a convenient choice for spontaneous baking or when you need a delicious treat without a special grocery run.
• A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion: Whether served warm with your morning coffee, as a satisfying snack to bridge meals, or even lightly toasted as a simple dessert, this bread adapts beautifully to any part of your day.
• Conveniently Freezer-Friendly: Bake a batch (or two!) ahead of time and store loaves or individual slices in the freezer. This ensures you always have a homemade delight ready to enjoy whenever a craving strikes or unexpected guests arrive.

Essential Ingredients for Applesauce Bread

Creating this wonderfully moist and flavorful applesauce bread relies on a few key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final texture and taste. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Butter: Opt for unsalted butter, melted and then allowed to cool completely before incorporating it into the batter. This ensures even mixing and prevents the eggs from scrambling. Butter contributes to the rich flavor and tender crumb of the bread.
• Light Brown Sugar: This isn’t just for sweetness; light brown sugar adds a lovely depth with its subtle caramel notes and helps maintain moisture, contributing to that signature soft texture. For an extra touch of homemade goodness, you can even try making your own brown sugar!
• Granulated Sugar: Provides additional sweetness and helps with browning, creating a beautifully golden crust.
• Applesauce: The star of the show! It’s crucial to use unsweetened applesauce. This allows you to control the overall sweetness of the bread and ensures it doesn’t become cloyingly sweet. Applesauce acts as a natural fat substitute and a powerful moistening agent.
• Greek Yogurt: A secret ingredient for ultimate moisture! Greek yogurt adds incredible tenderness and a slight tang that complements the apples and spices, all while adding a touch of protein. Full-fat yogurt will yield the richest results, but lower-fat options also work well.
• All-Purpose Flour: For best results, measure your flour correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and then leveling it off with a straight edge. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this can pack too much flour, leading to a dense or dry loaf.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder: These leavening agents are essential for giving the bread its rise and light texture. Ensure they are fresh for optimal effectiveness.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These quintessential warm spices beautifully enhance the natural apple flavor and fill your home with an irresistible aroma as the bread bakes. They are the heart of this cozy flavor profile.
• Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and brings out all the other flavors, making them more vibrant and pronounced.

The precise quantities for each ingredient are provided in the full recipe card at the bottom of this post, making it easy to gather everything you need before you start baking.

Customizing Your Applesauce Bread: Variations and Additions

One of the joys of quick bread baking is its flexibility! This applesauce bread recipe is a fantastic canvas for your creativity. Feel free to experiment with these variations and additions to make it uniquely yours:

• Mini Loaves for Gifting or Portion Control: Instead of baking one large loaf, divide the batter among mini loaf pans. Adjust baking time accordingly (typically 25-35 minutes). These smaller loaves are adorable for individual servings, perfect for lunchboxes, or make wonderful homemade gifts.
• Delightful Mix-Ins for Texture and Flavor: Elevate your bread by stirring in about ½ to 1 cup of your favorite extras. Consider:
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.
  • Dark or white chocolate chips for a sweet indulgence.
  • Dried cranberries or raisins for bursts of fruity chewiness.
  • Shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• A Hint of Vanilla: A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract can add another layer of warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile, complementing the spices beautifully.
• Boost the Wholesomeness with Whole Wheat Flour: For a heartier loaf with added fiber, replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will result in a slightly denser texture but a more robust flavor.
• Oil as a Butter Alternative: If you prefer to use oil or are out of butter, vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted coconut oil can be substituted cup-for-cup for the butter. This will result in a slightly different flavor and often an even moister crumb.
• Spice it Up with More Fall Flavors: Go beyond cinnamon and nutmeg! Add a pinch of ground cloves, allspice, or even a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice blend for a truly autumnal taste. Ginger also works wonderfully with apple flavors.
• Sweet Glaze or Crumb Topping: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled bread (powdered sugar whisked with a little milk or lemon juice). A buttery crumb topping (flour, sugar, butter, cinnamon) can also be sprinkled on top before baking for added texture.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions for Applesauce Bread

Baking this delightful applesauce bread is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Follow these simple steps for a moist, tender, and incredibly flavorful loaf every time:

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Wet Ingredients. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper, then lightly spraying the parchment paper with a non-stick cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled melted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, unsweetened applesauce, and Greek yogurt. Stir these wet ingredients together thoroughly until well blended. Ensure your butter is fully cooled to prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely.

Step 2: Gently Combine Wet Ingredients. Continue to stir the wet ingredients until they are thoroughly blended and smooth. The key here is to mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing which can develop gluten prematurely and lead to a tougher bread. The mixture should be uniform in color and texture before you proceed.

Step 3: Introduce Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl (or directly into the wet ingredients if you prefer a one-bowl method), whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the flour is just incorporated and no dry streaks remain. It’s crucial not to overmix at this stage; a few lumps are perfectly fine and often preferred for a tender crumb.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection. Pour the prepared batter evenly into your greased and lined loaf pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark. The bread is ready when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 5: Cool and Release. Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period allows the bread to set and makes it easier to remove without crumbling. After this initial cooling, carefully lift the bread out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang (if used) and transfer it directly to the wire rack to cool completely. Cooling completely on a rack prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

Step 6: Slice and Savor. Once fully cooled, slice your delicious applesauce bread using a serrated knife. Serve it plain, with a smear of butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam. Each slice is a testament to homemade comfort—moist, flavorful, and utterly delightful. Enjoy!

Expert Baking Tips for Quick Bread Success

Achieving a perfectly moist and tender quick bread is easier than you think, especially with a few professional insights. Keep these expert tips in mind to ensure your applesauce bread turns out flawless every time:

• Do Not Overmix the Batter: This is arguably the most crucial rule for any quick bread. Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, leading to a tough, dense, and chewy texture instead of the desired light and tender crumb. Mix wet and dry ingredients only until just combined; a few small lumps are perfectly acceptable.
• Monitor Browning: If you notice the top of your bread is browning too quickly before the center is fully baked, loosely tent the loaf pan with aluminum foil. This will prevent the top from burning while allowing the interior to finish cooking thoroughly.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Butter, eggs, and Greek yogurt blend much more smoothly and evenly into the batter when they are at room temperature. This creates a homogeneous mixture, which helps the bread bake more consistently and achieve a superior texture. Plan ahead and take these ingredients out of the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before you start.
• Always Test for Doneness: The best way to determine if your quick bread is fully baked is by using a wooden skewer, toothpick, or thin knife. Insert it into the very center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached, your bread is ready. If there’s wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and test again.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Patience is key! Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Then, let it cool completely on the wire rack before slicing. Cutting into warm quick bread can cause it to crumble or appear gummy in the center. Cooling allows the internal structure to set properly.
• Proper Pan Preparation: For effortless removal and to prevent sticking, always lightly grease your loaf pan. For extra assurance, especially with delicate quick breads, consider lining the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This creates “handles” for easy lifting once baked.
• Accurate Ingredient Measurement: Baking is a science! Especially for dry ingredients like flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a flat edge. Do not scoop directly from the bag, as this can compact the flour and result in using too much, leading to a dry loaf.

The Magic of Applesauce in Baking

Applesauce is a true baking hero, particularly in quick breads like this one. Its natural properties make it an exceptional ingredient for creating moist, tender, and flavorful baked goods. Here’s why applesauce works wonders:

• Natural Moisture Provider: Applesauce is packed with water, which it releases slowly during baking. This continuous moisture keeps the bread from drying out, resulting in an incredibly soft and succulent crumb that stays fresh longer.
• Fat Substitute: It can often replace some of the butter or oil in recipes, contributing moisture and tenderness without adding extra fat. This makes for a lighter bread without sacrificing richness.
• Natural Sweetener: Even unsweetened applesauce contains natural sugars, allowing you to reduce the amount of added sugar in your recipe. This contributes a subtle, fruit-derived sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
• Flavor Enhancer: Beyond moisture and sweetness, applesauce adds a delicate fruity background note that enhances the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a harmonious and comforting flavor profile.
• Binding Agent: The pectin in applesauce acts as a natural binder, helping to hold the bread together and contributing to its overall structure.

Choosing unsweetened applesauce gives you the most control over the final sweetness of your bread, ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions

This Applesauce Bread is delightful on its own, but it also shines with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

• Classic Butter: A simple smear of softened butter enhances the rich flavor and moist texture of the bread. Try cultured butter for an extra touch of tang.
• Cream Cheese Frosting or Spread: A lightly sweetened cream cheese frosting or a simple cream cheese spread complements the spiced apple notes beautifully.
• Fruit Preserves or Jam: Top a slice with your favorite fruit jam, apple butter, or marmalade for an added burst of fruity flavor. Berry jams (like raspberry or strawberry) offer a lovely contrast.
• A Warm Beverage: Pair a slice with a hot cup of coffee, a comforting mug of tea, or a spiced chai latte for the ultimate cozy experience, especially on a cool morning or afternoon.
• Alongside Soup or Stew: Believe it or not, quick breads can be a wonderful side to savory dishes! A slice of applesauce bread can provide a touch of sweetness to balance a hearty autumn soup or stew.
• Toasted with Ice Cream: For a simple dessert, lightly toast a slice and serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Gifting Homemade Applesauce Bread

Homemade quick breads, especially one as delicious as this Applesauce Bread, make incredibly thoughtful and appreciated gifts. They’re perfect for hostesses, neighbors, teachers, or as a warm welcome to new residents. Here’s how to make your gifted loaf extra special:

• Wrap it Beautifully: Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. For a nicer presentation, you can then wrap it in brown parchment paper or a festive tea towel, tied with twine or ribbon.
• Add a Tag: Attach a small tag with serving suggestions, storage instructions, and a friendly message. You might even include a small jar of homemade apple butter or a mini butter knife.
• Consider Mini Loaves: As mentioned in variations, baking the batter in mini loaf pans makes for charming individual gifts that are easy to distribute.
• Basket Ready: For a more elaborate gift, include the bread in a small basket with a nice mug, a packet of gourmet tea or coffee, and maybe some local honey or jam.

The act of baking and sharing is a true expression of care, and a warm loaf of applesauce bread communicates that perfectly.

Troubleshooting Common Quick Bread Issues

Even experienced bakers can encounter a hiccup now and then. Here are solutions to some common quick bread problems:

• Dense or Gummy Texture: This is almost always due to overmixing. Remember to mix only until the dry ingredients are just incorporated. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough crumb.
• Dry Bread: This can be caused by overbaking, too much flour (due to incorrect measurement), or not enough fat/moisture. Ensure you measure flour correctly and check for doneness at the earliest recommended time.
• Cracked Top: A cracked top is actually quite common and often desirable in quick breads as it signifies a good rise! However, if it cracks excessively or seems to ‘burst’, your oven might be too hot or you might have used too much leavening.
• Sunken Center: A sunken center usually indicates the bread wasn’t fully baked through, or it was removed from the oven too early. It can also be caused by overmixing or opening the oven door too frequently during baking. Always test with a toothpick in the center.
• Bread Sticks to the Pan: Insufficient greasing or not lining the pan with parchment paper can cause this. Ensure thorough preparation of your loaf pan before pouring in the batter.

Don’t be discouraged by minor issues; every bake is a learning experience! Quick breads are generally forgiving, and with these tips, you’ll master them in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Applesauce Bread

Here are answers to some common questions about baking and storing this delicious applesauce bread:

Explore More Delicious Quick Bread Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and comfort of quick breads, there’s a whole world of delightful recipes waiting to be baked! Here are some other favorites to inspire your next baking adventure:

• Cranberry Bread Recipe
• Cherry Bread
• Oatmeal Bread
• Pumpkin Bread Recipe
• Air Fryer Banana Bread
• Banana Bread with Applesauce

We encourage you to try this easy and incredibly satisfying Cinnamon Applesauce Bread recipe. Once you do, please come back and share your experience by leaving a comment and a recipe rating!

Applesauce Bread

Applesauce Bread is perfectly flavored with applesauce and made incredibly moist with Greek yogurt. It’s a really easy quick bread recipe that you can enjoy any day of the week, offering comforting flavors and a tender crumb.

Prep Time
15 mins

Cook Time
45 mins

Total Time
1 hr

Servings
10

Cuisine
American

Course
Dessert, Breakfast, Snack

Calories
259

Author
Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Butter melted and cooled
• 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 cup Unsweetened Applesauce
• 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt
• 1 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1 Tablespoon Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the longer sides to create ‘handles.’ Lightly spray the parchment paper with a non-stick cooking spray for extra assurance.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled melted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, large eggs, unsweetened applesauce, and Greek yogurt. Stir these wet ingredients together thoroughly with a whisk or spatula until they are well combined and smooth. Be sure not to overmix at this stage.

3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Gently fold and stir with a spatula until the flour is just incorporated and no dry streaks are visible. It’s crucial not to overmix; a few small lumps are better than a tough bread.

4. Pour the prepared batter evenly into your greased and lined loaf pan. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. The bread is done when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.

5. Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the bread to set and makes it easier to remove without crumbling. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, carefully lift the bread out of the pan and transfer it directly to the wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

6. Once fully cooled, slice the applesauce bread with a serrated knife and serve. Enjoy this moist and flavorful homemade quick bread on its own or with your favorite toppings!

Recipe Notes

Store any leftover applesauce bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness and moisture.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 259kcal,
Carbohydrates 39g,
Protein 4g,
Fat 10g,
Saturated Fat 6g,
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g,
Monounsaturated Fat 3g,
Trans Fat 0.4g,
Cholesterol 57mg,
Sodium 280mg,
Potassium 79mg,
Fiber 1g,
Sugar 23g,
Vitamin A 341IU,
Vitamin C 0.3mg,
Calcium 46mg,
Iron 1mg