Imagine a bread that dances between sweet and savory, where the rich tang of cheddar meets the aromatic whispers of rosemary, all softened by the subtle sweetness of applesauce. This Cheddar Rosemary and Applesauce Loaf isn't just another bread recipe—it's a culinary adventure that will transform your baking game and leave your taste buds begging for more. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious kitchen novice, this recipe promises to deliver a show-stopping loaf that's both comforting and unexpectedly sophisticated.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter, and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Whisk together until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, applesauce, and eggs. Beat the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh rosemary into the batter until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with the spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- After cooling, carefully remove the loaf from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice the loaf once it has cooled, and serve it warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Cheddar Rosemary and Applesauce Loaf!
Tips
- Choose high-quality, sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor impact
- Use fresh rosemary if possible—it makes a significant difference in aroma and taste
- Don't overmix the batter; gentle folding preserves the bread's tender texture
- Use room temperature eggs and applesauce for more even mixing
- Check your loaf a few minutes early to prevent over-baking
- Let the loaf cool completely to allow flavors to fully develop
- Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness
- For extra richness, consider brushing the top with melted butter right after baking
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 40mg
