Introduction
Hey, bread lovers! Let’s talk about a little kitchen secret that changed my life. Years ago, I stumbled across a dusty bread machine at a garage sale. Best ten bucks I ever spent. Since then, I’ve been obsessed with finding the ultimate loaf—and this applesauce bread? It’s the one. Moist, flavorful, and so easy it practically bakes itself. I still remember the first time I pulled it out of the machine—the smell was unreal, and my family devoured it in minutes. Today, I’m not just giving you the classic version. I’ve got five fresh, unexpected twists to keep your taste buds buzzing. Ready to dive in? Let’s get baking!
1. Spiced Applesauce Bread
Warm spices and applesauce are a match made in heaven. Think cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves hugging every bite. This version turns your kitchen into a cozy fall hideaway. Perfect for chilly mornings with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prep the Machine: Wipe down your bread machine pan. No one wants yesterday’s crumbs in today’s loaf.
- Mix the Wet Stuff: Dump the applesauce, sugar, oil, and eggs into the pan. Give it a quick stir if you’re feeling fancy.
- Add the Dry Goods: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Pour it over the wet mix.
- Set It Up: Pop the pan in the machine. Select the “Quick Bread” or “Cake” setting—check your manual if you’re unsure.
- Hit Start: Press the button and let the magic happen. Go sip some tea or scroll TikTok.
- Test It: When it’s done, poke the center with a toothpick. Clean? You’re golden. Crumbs? Give it a few more minutes.
- Cool Down: Let it sit in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, tip it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Nutty Applesauce Bread
Love a little crunch? This one’s for you. Walnuts or pecans add texture that makes every bite exciting. I once made this for a potluck, and it vanished before I could grab seconds.
Ingredients:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Get Ready: Make sure your bread machine is clean and plugged in.
- Wet Ingredients First: Pour applesauce, sugar, oil, and eggs into the pan. Mix it up a bit.
- Dry Ingredients Next: Stir flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Add it to the pan.
- Toss in Nuts: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans on top. They’ll mix in as it bakes.
- Choose the Setting: Go for “Quick Bread” or “Cake” mode.
- Start Baking: Hit start and let the machine do its thing.
- Check It: Toothpick test time. Clean means it’s ready.
- Cool Off: Let it rest for 10 minutes in the pan, then move to a rack.

3. Fruity Applesauce Bread
Want a pop of sweetness? Dried cranberries or raisins bring a chewy, tangy twist. My kid begged me to make this after a rainy afternoon baking session. Now it’s a family staple.
Ingredients:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Set Up: Get your bread machine ready to roll.
- Wet Mix: Add applesauce, sugar, oil, and eggs to the pan. Stir if you want.
- Dry Mix: Combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Pour it in.
- Fruit Time: Toss in the cranberries or raisins. They’ll spread out nicely.
- Pick a Setting: “Quick Bread” or “Cake” works here.
- Bake It: Press start and wait for the goodness.
- Done Check: Toothpick in, toothpick out. Clean? You’re set.
- Cool It: 10 minutes in the pan, then onto a rack.

4. Glazed Applesauce Bread
Craving something sweet? A simple glaze takes this bread to dessert territory. I whipped this up for a friend’s birthday once, and she still talks about it.
Ingredients for Bread:
Ingredients for Glaze:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prep Work: Make sure your bread machine is good to go.
- Wet Ingredients: Add applesauce, sugar, oil, and eggs to the pan.
- Dry Ingredients: Mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Add it in.
- Set the Mode: Choose “Quick Bread” or “Cake.”
- Start It: Hit the button and relax.
- Test It: Toothpick check when it’s done. Clean means success.
- Glaze Time: While it cools, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Finish It: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread. Let it set.

5. Savory Applesauce Bread
Ready for a curveball? This savory version with cheese and herbs pairs perfectly with soup. I made it on a whim one night, and now it’s my go-to for dinner parties.
Ingredients:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Get Started: Check your bread machine’s ready.
- Wet Stuff: Mix applesauce, sugar, oil, and eggs in the pan.
- Dry Stuff: Combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Add it.
- Savory Add-Ins: Stir in cheese and thyme or rosemary.
- Set It: Pick “Quick Bread” or “Cake” mode.
- Bake Away: Start the machine and wait.
- Check It: Toothpick test for doneness.
- Cool Down: Let it sit 10 minutes, then rack it.

FAQs
Can I use homemade applesauce in this recipe?
You bet! Freshly made applesauce adds a special vibe. Just keep it thick—too runny, and it might mess with the texture.
How long does the bread stay fresh?
In an airtight container, it’s good for 3 days on the counter or a week in the fridge. Trust me, it won’t last that long.
Can I freeze the bread?
Yup! Wrap it tight in plastic, then foil. It’ll keep for 3 months. Perfect for a lazy-day treat.
What if I don’t have a bread machine?
No stress. Bake it in a loaf pan at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes. Works like a charm.
Can I swap sugar for something healthier?
Totally! Honey, maple syrup, or stevia work great. Play with the amount to nail the sweetness.
Conclusion
And there you go—five killer twists on the moistest, most delicious applesauce bread you’ll ever bake. From spiced to savory, there’s something here for every mood. My bread machine’s been a trusty sidekick, and I hope these recipes make yours one too. Give one a shot—or all five! Drop me a line about how it goes, or share your own spin. Let’s keep the baking party going. Happy loaf-making!
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