Applesauce Bread Recipe – Moist Quick Bread with Cinnamon

Slice of homemade applesauce bread loaf

This applesauce bread is a classic moist quick bread made with warm spices and pantry staples. It bakes up tender and subtly sweet—perfect for breakfast, snacking, or sharing at fall gatherings.

🍞 Applesauce Bread

A moist, classic quick bread packed with cozy autumn spices, sweet applesauce, and crunchy walnuts.

⏱️ Total Time: ~1 hr 15 mins 🍽️ Yield: 1 Loaf (6–8 servings) 🍳 Equipment: Loaf Pan

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients & Aromatics:

  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 cup applesauce

Dry Ingredients & Mix-Ins:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup walnut meats (chopped)

Baking Instructions

🌡️ Oven Temp: 350°F

  1. In a large bowl, cream the shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs, vanilla, and applesauce; beat well to fully integrate the wet ingredients.
  3. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until combined—do not overmix.
  4. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.
  5. Pour the batter into a well-greased loaf pan and bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
🔒 Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.

Applesauce Bread FAQ

Can I use oil instead of shortening?

Yes. Replace the ½ cup shortening with ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter for a slightly different texture (oil makes it more moist).

Do I have to use walnuts?

No. You can omit them entirely or substitute with pecans, raisins, or chocolate chips. The bread is delicious plain too.

Can I make this into muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes! Fill muffin tins ⅔ full and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

How do I store applesauce bread?

Cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes. You can cut the sugar to ½ cup if you prefer less sweetness, especially if your applesauce is sweetened.

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