Save This Cinnamon Applesauce Flax Loaf fills your kitchen with cozy spice as it bakes and delivers a moist crumb every time. It is my go-to for those chilly mornings when I need something wholesome and not too sweet. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or with an afternoon cup of tea, this is a loaf that always disappears quickly.
My kids first loved this loaf on a rainy school morning. Now it is our favorite solution for overripe apples and a surefire way to make the house smell inviting.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: adds tenderness and helps structure the loaf choose a fresh bag for best results
- Ground flaxseed: brings nutty flavor and nutrition pick golden flaxseed for milder taste
- Baking soda: lifts the batter for an airy loaf always check your soda is still active
- Baking powder: helps the loaf rise evenly
- Salt: balances sweetness and sharpens the flavors sea salt gives a subtle mineral boost
- Ground cinnamon: infuses that deep comforting spice try to use a fresh jar for maximum aroma
- Ground nutmeg: gives an extra layer of warmth optional but worth it if you have some
- Unsweetened applesauce: keeps the loaf moist without extra sugar use pure applesauce with no added sweeteners
- Neutral oil: like canola or sunflower guarantees a delicate crumb and a tender bite
- Light brown sugar: deepens sweetness and enhances that classic quick bread flavor pick one that is still soft and fresh
- Large eggs: create structure and provide richness farm fresh eggs result in a fluffier loaf
- Pure vanilla extract: brings gentle vanilla undertones use real extract for fullest flavor
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: lend crunch and nutty contrast raw or lightly toasted nuts work best
- Raisins or dried cranberries: add pops of sweet tartness use plump fruit for maximum flavor
Instructions
- Prep the Pan:
- Grease your loaf pan well with oil or a nonstick spray and line it with parchment so nothing sticks and the loaf lifts right out when cooled
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl whisk together flour ground flaxseed baking soda baking powder salt cinnamon and nutmeg for even distribution and a uniform loaf texture
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk applesauce oil brown sugar eggs and vanilla together until no streaks of egg or oil remain and the mixture looks smooth and glossy
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Pour wet mixture over dry then stir slowly with a rubber spatula just until all flour is incorporated focus on scraping the bottom of the bowl to avoid dry pockets do not overmix or the loaf will be tough
- Add Nuts and Fruit:
- Fold in walnuts or pecans and raisins or cranberries with a gentle motion just until they are scattered throughout this adds lovely texture and flavor bursts in every slice
- Fill the Loaf Pan:
- Spoon batter into prepared pan and use the spatula to smooth the top paying special attention to the corners for even baking
- Bake the Loaf:
- Place pan on the middle oven rack bake for 45 to 55 minutes until the loaf is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs
- Cool and Slice:
- Let loaf sit in the pan for 10 minutes then gently lift onto a wire rack peel off parchment and allow to cool fully for easiest slicing and the best texture
Save My favorite moment with this recipe will always be serving it warm with a drizzle of honey at our weekend brunches. I have played with many spices but cinnamon is the one that brings my family straight to the kitchen every time.
Storage Tips
For best freshness wrap your cooled loaf tightly in foil or store airtight at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate for up to a week if your kitchen runs warm or for extra longevity. To freeze slice the loaf first then wrap individual slices so you can thaw one at a time for easy breakfasts on busy mornings.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap half the flour for whole wheat flour for an earthier flavor and more fiber. Plant based eaters can make two flax eggs by mixing two tablespoons ground flaxseed with six tablespoons water and set it aside until thickened then use as you would eggs. Olive oil lends a fruitier taste if neutral oils are not available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this loaf warm with dairy free spread or nut butter for extra richness. It is especially delicious alongside spiced tea or hot coffee and also works great sliced thinly and toasted. For dessert top with a spoonful of vanilla yogurt or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Cultural and Historical Context
Applesauce cake has deep roots in American home baking where apples were a staple through the fall and winter. Flaxseed adds a modern twist with its nutty depth and health benefits. Quick breads like this have always been popular in family kitchens for being fast reliable and comforting.
Seasonal Adaptations
In autumn stir in diced fresh apple or a handful of dried apricots for a seasonal update A sprinkle of pumpkin spice can replace cinnamon and nutmeg if seasonal blends are on hand For a summer touch use grated zucchini instead of some of the applesauce for extra moisture
Success Stories
Since discovering this recipe I have brought it to potlucks book clubs and holiday mornings someone always asks for the recipe. It is a great introduction to baking with flaxseed since no one notices the nutrition boost. Even picky eaters find a slice irresistible especially with melty butter on top.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Make this loaf in advance when you have extra apples or are prepping for a busy month. Allow it to cool then wrap tightly and freeze. Slices come out just as moist and flavorful for grab and go snacks or unexpected guests.
Save Enjoy a slice warm, or pack it away for an easy nourishing treat. This loaf never lasts long in our home!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber and add a hearty texture.
- → How do I make this loaf vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water) and let rest for 5 minutes before using.
- → What nuts work best for this loaf?
Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon and applesauce.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Cool loaf completely, then store slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Can I add dried fruit?
Raisins or dried cranberries make excellent add-ins, providing chewy texture and bursts of sweetness throughout the loaf.
- → What is the best oil to use?
Neutral oils like canola or sunflower are recommended; they let the flavors of applesauce and spices shine through.