If you’re hunting for a cozy, delightfully spiced treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Vegan Apple Bread Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. It’s perfectly moist and bursting with fresh apple chunks, fragrant cinnamon, and the subtle warmth of nutmeg. What makes this bread truly special is how it combines wholesome ingredients without any eggs or dairy, yet still manages to deliver incredible flavor and texture that will have you slicing off second (and third) pieces without hesitation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, natural ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious bread. Each component works together to bring moisture, sweetness, spice, and a tender crumb that makes this loaf irresistibly good from the very first bite.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for our bread, creating a soft and satisfying crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise perfectly and keeps the texture light.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a bit of extra lift along with the baking soda.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the bread with that classic cozy warmth everyone loves.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle spicy kick that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce: Keeps the bread moist and adds natural apple sweetness without extra fat.
- ½ cup maple syrup: A lovely vegan sweetener that deepens the flavor and gives a tender crumb.
- ¼ cup coconut oil (melted): Adds richness and helps keep the bread luscious and soft.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the flavors with a gentle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 1 cup finely chopped apples (peeled and cored): Fresh apple chunks add delightful texture and juicy bursts of flavor.
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For a bit of crunch and nutty richness, though feel free to leave them out if you prefer.
How to Make Vegan Apple Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the bread will release easily once baked. This step sets the stage for your perfectly shaped loaf.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these first allows the spices to distribute evenly throughout the batter, ensuring every bite is bursting with that warm flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the applesauce, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This mixture not only sweetens the bread but also infuses it with moisture and richness, key to that tender crumb everyone loves.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix here; gently folding ensures your bread stays light and fluffy instead of dense.
Step 5: Add Apples and Nuts
Fold in the finely chopped apples and the nuts if you’re using them. These add wonderful texture contrasts, with juicy apple pieces and crunchy nuts making every slice a little celebration.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—this helps it set up perfectly.
How to Serve Vegan Apple Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vegan glaze can elevate this already delightful bread to dessert-level indulgence. Fresh apple slices on the side add an inviting, fresh touch that echoes the bread’s core flavors.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even a cozy afternoon treat. For a more filling option, serve alongside a dairy-free yogurt or nut butter for a balanced mini-meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try turning slices of this bread into French toast for a weekend brunch with friends or use chunks as a base for a vegan bread pudding. You can even toast individual slices and spread with almond butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a quick and satisfying snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover vegan apple bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays delicious for up to 3 days, or for up to a week in the fridge if you want to extend its life.
Freezing
If you want to make this vegan apple bread in advance, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil or place individual slices in freezer bags to thaw as needed without losing moisture or flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy your vegan apple bread warm, simply pop a slice in the toaster or warm it briefly in the oven at low heat. This brings back the fresh-baked texture and highlights the comforting spices in every bite.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free flour for this Vegan Apple Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! A gluten-free all-purpose blend works well, but be sure it includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to keep the bread from crumbling.
Do I have to use coconut oil, or can I substitute another fat?
You can swap coconut oil with any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. Melted vegan butter also works and adds a rich flavor.
Can I add other fruits or extras?
Yes! Feel free to mix in raisins, dried cranberries, or even shredded carrots for a twist. Just keep the liquid ratios in mind to maintain the right batter consistency.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf – if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Is this Vegan Apple Bread Recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! It’s a wholesome, naturally sweet treat with no eggs or dairy, making it a great option for kids’ snacks or lunchboxes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about baking bread from scratch, especially a Vegan Apple Bread Recipe as flavorful and moist as this one. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the cozy apple and spice vibes baked right into every slice. Once you do, this bread will become a cherished staple in your recipe collection, perfect for sharing with family and friends any time you want a little taste of warmth and happiness.
Print
Vegan Apple Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Apple Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf packed with warm spices and fresh apples, perfect for a healthy dessert or snack. Made without eggs, dairy, or refined sugars, it uses wholesome ingredients like applesauce, maple syrup, and coconut oil, making it a guilt-free treat for vegans and those seeking a nutritious baked good.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped apples, peeled and cored
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined to ensure even distribution of leavening and spices.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Mix Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined; avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
- Add Apples and Nuts: Fold in the finely chopped apples and chopped walnuts or pecans if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour and Smooth Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly with a spatula for uniform baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, helping to prevent sogginess.
Notes
- You can substitute the coconut oil with any neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil.
- For a sweeter loaf, add 2–3 tablespoons of brown sugar or use naturally sweet apples like Honeycrisp.
- Store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.
