Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Get Ready! Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it or the pan.
- Step 2: Wet Ingredients Part 1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together oil, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until well combined and smooth.
- Step 3: Add the Eggs. Whisk in the two large eggs until fully incorporated into the sugar and oil mixture.
- Step 4: Add the Applesauce Mix. Measure in the unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt. Whisk again until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
- Step 5: Bring in the Dry. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to distribute them evenly.
- Step 6: Combine Gently. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Switch to a spatula or wooden spoon and stir just until the dry ingredients are combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are okay.
- Step 7: Pan It Up. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use the spatula to spread the top evenly.
- Step 8: Bake! Bake for about 50-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with aluminum foil.
- Step 9: Cool Down. Let the bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully lift it out using the parchment paper or invert it onto the wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Substitutions & Additions: Melted butter can replace oil for a richer flavor. Sour cream is a good substitute for Greek yogurt. Sweetened applesauce can be used, possibly reducing granulated sugar slightly. Add ½ cup of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans), raisins, or chocolate chips. A pinch of ground ginger or cloves can enhance spices.
Tips for Success: Do not overmix the batter to avoid a tough loaf. Measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling, rather than scooping. Lining the pan with parchment paper makes removal easy. Rely on the toothpick test for doneness. Cool bread fully for cleaner slices.
Storage: Store cooled bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Freeze cooled whole loaf or slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
FAQs: Chunky applesauce can be used. Applesauce adds moisture and tenderness in baking. This batter can be used for muffins (bake for 20-25 minutes). Dry bread is often caused by overmixing or overbaking.
