Warm, aromatic, and perfectly moist, this Spiced Applesauce Bread is loaded with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves — a cozy treat for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.
Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon ground cloves
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup brown sugar, packed
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup unsweetened applesauce
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½ cup milk
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Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) or raisins
Instructions
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Preheat oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper. -
Mix dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside. -
Cream butter and sugars:
In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. -
Add eggs and vanilla:
Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract. -
Combine wet and dry ingredients:
Mix in applesauce and milk until smooth. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing. -
Add optional mix-ins:
Fold in nuts or raisins, if using. -
Bake:
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. -
Cool and serve:
Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Variations
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Extra moist: Add an additional ¼ cup of applesauce or a splash of oil.
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Spice twist: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for deeper flavor.
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Gluten-free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
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Sweet glaze: Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze or maple icing for dessert-style bread.
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Storage: Keep wrapped at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days; freezes well for up to 3 months.