Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (plain flour)
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon (3g) ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon (1g) ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5g) salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (60ml) molasses
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (75g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • ½ cup (75g) raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the loaf pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a separate, medium bowl, whisk together the applesauce, oil, sugar, molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the chopped nuts or raisins/cranberries (if using).
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
  7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once completely cooled, slice and serve. Enjoy with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite spread!