Introduction:
Cranberry Applesauce Bread is a moist, flavorful, and healthy option that’s perfect for any time of day. This delightful bread combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with the tartness of fresh or dried cranberries, making it a versatile treat for breakfast, a quick snack, or even dessert. With its soft crumb and rich flavor, it’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s great for using up leftover cranberries or applesauce. Furthermore, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients, so you can whip it up in no time. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe!
Prep Time and Servings for Cranberry Applesauce Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 1 loaf (about 8–10 slices)
With just 15 minutes of prep time and a short baking time, you’ll have a warm, comforting loaf of Cranberry Applesauce Bread ready in no time.
Ingredients for Cranberry Applesauce Bread
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar or brown sugar
Add-Ins
- 1 cup (120g) fresh or dried cranberries
- ½ cup (60g) chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
Optional Toppings
- A sprinkle of coarse sugar for added crunch
- A dusting of powdered sugar for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Applesauce Bread
1. Prepare Your Equipment
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, mix the applesauce, vegetable oil (or melted butter), eggs, and sugar until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
5. Add Cranberries and Nuts
- Fold in the cranberries and chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Transfer Batter to Pan
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar over the top for a crunchy crust.
7. Bake the Bread
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
By following these steps, you’ll create a perfectly moist Cranberry Applesauce Bread that’s ready to enjoy.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Applesauce Bread
- Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour. Too much flour can make the bread dry.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Prevent Cranberries from Sinking: Toss the cranberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter to help them stay evenly distributed.
- Test for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so check the bread 5 minutes before the suggested time. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure your Cranberry Applesauce Bread turns out moist and delicious every time.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Applesauce Bread
- For Breakfast: Serve a slice of Cranberry Applesauce Bread toasted with a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese. It pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- As a Snack: Enjoy it on its own or with a dollop of homemade cranberry relish. Check out this Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe for a complementary treat.
- For Dessert: Dust the top with powdered sugar and pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet elegant dessert.
- Holiday Spread: Add it to your holiday brunch table alongside this Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole for a festive and flavorful pairing.
FAQs About Cranberry Applesauce Bread
1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. However, because they are tart, you may want to increase the sugar slightly for a balanced flavor. Tossing fresh cranberries in a bit of flour before adding them to the batter can also help them distribute evenly.
2. How do I store Cranberry Applesauce Bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.
3. Is Cranberry Applesauce Bread healthy?
Yes! Using applesauce as an ingredient not only adds moisture but also reduces the need for excess oil or butter, making this bread a healthier choice. You can further lighten the recipe by substituting some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
4. What pairs well with Cranberry Applesauce Bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with a warm bowl of soup, such as this Rice French Onion Soup, for a cozy and satisfying meal.
5. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to achieve the right texture.
Conclusion:
Cranberry Applesauce Bread is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and moist flavors that makes it a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast treat, a quick snack, or a holiday dessert, this bread has you covered. Its easy preparation and wholesome ingredients make it a go-to recipe for both beginner and experienced bakers.
Pair it with complementary recipes like this Green Bean Casserole or serve it as a standalone delight at your next gathering. Whip up this versatile and delicious bread today—you’ll love every bite!
