Fall is in the air, and that means one thing: it’s officially pumpkin spice season! From lattes to candles, pumpkin seems to be everywhere. But there’s one pumpkin treat that stands above the rest in my book: homemade pumpkin bread. There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about a warm slice of pumpkin bread fresh from the oven, especially when shared with loved ones.
While there are countless pumpkin bread recipes out there, I’m going to let you in on a secret ingredient that takes this classic to the next level: applesauce! Yes, you read that right. Applesauce adds a touch of sweetness, incredible moisture, and creates a delightful texture that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). This isn’t just any pumpkin bread recipe; it’s a pumpkin bread with applesauce recipe that’s destined to become a new fall favorite. This pumpkin bread with applesauce recipe is easy to make, incredibly moist, and even freezable for enjoying later.
Why This Pumpkin Bread with Applesauce Recipe Works So Well
So, why applesauce? What makes it such a game-changer in the world of pumpkin bread? Let’s dive in. The primary reason applesauce works so beautifully in this pumpkin bread with applesauce recipe is its exceptional ability to retain moisture. Pumpkin bread can sometimes be a bit dry, but the applesauce ensures a perfectly moist and tender crumb every time. Its magic lies in its naturally occurring sugars which also allow us to reduce the amount of refined sugar in the recipe. This results in a subtly sweet bread that’s not overly sugary but perfectly balanced with warm spices and earthy pumpkin. It offers a healthier approach to indulge in the flavors of fall. Finally, the subtle flavor of applesauce complements the pumpkin and spices without overpowering them, enhancing the overall taste experience. The applesauce makes the pumpkin flavor shine!
Let’s not forget the other star players in this pumpkin bread with applesauce recipe. First, there’s the pumpkin puree itself. Whether you use canned pumpkin or take the time to make your own, the key is to ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling already contains spices and sugars, which will throw off the balance of the recipe. Next, we have the spices. Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger create that signature warm and cozy flavor that defines pumpkin bread. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your liking, or even add a pinch of allspice for an extra layer of complexity. Flour provides structure to the bread. All-purpose flour works perfectly well, but you can also experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. If using whole wheat flour, you may need to add a bit more liquid to the batter as it tends to absorb more moisture. Finally, we have our leavening agents: baking soda and baking powder. These help the bread rise and create a light and airy texture.
Before we get to the recipe, let me share a few quick tips that will set you up for pumpkin bread success. First, don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough and chewy bread. Mix until just combined. Check your baking powder and baking soda to ensure they are still active. If they are expired your bread may not rise correctly.
The Perfect Pumpkin Bread with Applesauce Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing pumpkin bread with applesauce recipe:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
Let’s Bake: Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to get baking? Here’s how to make this incredible pumpkin bread with applesauce recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This prevents the bread from sticking and makes for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, and eggs until well combined.
- Add the pumpkin puree and applesauce to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Loaf
Avoid Overmixing
This is crucial for a tender crumb. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
Testing for Doneness
Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, the bread is done. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes and test again.
Cooling Properly
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from crumbling and makes it easier to slice.
Delicious Variations
Get creative with your pumpkin bread by adding chocolate chips, chopped walnuts or pecans, dried cranberries, or even a streusel topping. A cream cheese swirl can also add a touch of decadence.
Storing the Bread
To keep your pumpkin bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your pumpkin bread plain, with a pat of butter, or a dollop of cream cheese. It’s also delicious toasted with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree. Just make sure to strain it well to remove any excess moisture.
Can I substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. However, you may need to add a bit more liquid to the batter as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
Can I freeze pumpkin bread?
Yes, pumpkin bread freezes very well. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
How long does pumpkin bread last?
Pumpkin bread will last for up to 3 days at room temperature, up to a week in the refrigerator, or up to 2 months in the freezer.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check the blend’s instructions, as some require additional binders.
Can I use different spices?
Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. You can add a pinch of allspice, cardamom, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Can I make this recipe into muffins?
Absolutely! Reduce the baking time to around 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Bake, Share, and Enjoy!
I hope you enjoy this pumpkin bread with applesauce recipe as much as I do. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall and create lasting memories with loved ones. Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating if you try the recipe, and be sure to share your own variations and baking tips. For more autumn baking inspiration, check out my other recipes for apple crisp, pecan pie, and spiced chai cookies. Happy baking!
