Save It A moist, gently spiced loaf featuring the natural sweetness of applesauce and the nutty richness of flaxseed—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
The first time I made this loaf, it filled my kitchen with a cozy cinnamon aroma and became a breakfast favorite for my family. Using applesauce makes the bread naturally sweet and soft without extra effort.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 3/4 cups (220 g)
- Ground flaxseed: 1/4 cup (25 g)
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
- Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 2 teaspoons
- Ground nutmeg (optional): 1/4 teaspoon
- Unsweetened applesauce: 1 cup (240 g)
- Neutral oil (e.g., canola or sunflower): 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Light brown sugar, packed: 2/3 cup (130 g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Raisins or dried cranberries (optional): 1/2 cup (80 g)
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, ground flaxseed, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk applesauce, oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add-ins:
- Fold in nuts and dried fruit, if using.
- Bake:
- Transfer batter to prepared loaf pan and smooth top. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve:
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire rack before slicing.
Save It My kids love helping with this loaf, especially mixing the wet and dry ingredients together. It's always a warm treat on chilly mornings with a pat of vegan butter.
Required Tools
9x5-inch loaf pan, mixing bowls, whisk, rubber spatula, measuring cups and spoons, parchment paper, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, wheat (gluten), tree nuts if using nuts. May contain traces of soy and other allergens depending on ingredient brands. Always verify packaging for cross-contamination if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 220 calories, 8 g total fat, 34 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein
Save It This loaf stays moist for days and makes a comforting addition to breakfast or snack time. Enjoy with tea or your favorite spread.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this loaf vegan?
Yes, swap the eggs for flax eggs using ground flaxseed and water to suit a plant-based diet.
- → What nuts work best in this loaf?
Try walnuts or pecans for delicious texture and flavor. Leave out nuts if an allergy is present.
- → Can I use whole wheat flour?
Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for extra fiber and hearty texture.
- → How do I know when the loaf is done?
Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 45–55 minutes at 350°F.
- → What is the best way to serve this loaf?
Enjoy warm with vegan butter or nut butter, or simply slice and serve alongside coffee or tea.
- → Can I add dried fruit?
Yes, raisins or dried cranberries add sweetness and texture, making each slice more flavorful.