Harvest Spice Bread

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Cozy spices, tender crumb, and that unmistakable aroma of fall baking—Harvest Spice Bread is everything you crave when the air turns crisp. This warmly spiced quick bread combines cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice with hints of vanilla and brown sugar, creating a loaf that feels like a hug in every slice.

It’s the kind of loaf you can enjoy for breakfast with coffee, as an afternoon snack with butter or cream cheese, or even as a dessert topped with a drizzle of glaze. Easy to whip up and wonderfully moist, this is a fall essential you’ll want on repeat all season.

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What Makes the Perfect Harvest Spice Bread?

The secret to a truly standout Harvest Spice Bread lies in the balance. Too much spice can overwhelm, while too little loses the comforting warmth. This recipe finds that sweet spot with a carefully measured mix of classic autumn spices. Adding applesauce or pumpkin purée not only deepens the flavor but also ensures an ultra-moist texture that stays soft for days.

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Ingredients for the Harvest Spice Bread

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (or pumpkin puree for variation)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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How To Make the Harvest Spice Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all the spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice).

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until smooth. Add the oil, applesauce (or pumpkin), and vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined.

Step 4: Fold It Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

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Serving and Storing Your Harvest Spice Bread

Serve it warm with a spread of soft butter or a cream cheese swirl. It’s also lovely with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and a touch of milk. This bread stays moist for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature and can be frozen for up to three months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Swap the eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and ensure your sugars are vegan-friendly.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it will make the bread denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a balance.

What other mix-ins can I add?

Chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips work beautifully in this bread.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use two loaf pans and keep an eye on the baking time.

Do I need to refrigerate the bread?

No need—room temperature storage is perfect for up to 4 days. Freeze for longer storage.

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Want More Quick Bread Ideas?

If this spiced loaf hits the spot, you’ll love these cozy bakes too:

• Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe for a sugary-crunch crust.
• Banana Pudding Recipe when you’re craving creamy indulgence.
• Lemon Loaf Recipe for a bright, tangy twist.
• Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting if you love warm spice and a soft bite.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole for breakfast turned dessert.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest fall baking board so you can make it again when the cravings hit!

And drop a comment below if you give it a try. Did you go with applesauce or pumpkin? Add any mix-ins? I’d love to hear your tweaks and tricks!

For more recipe ideas and inspiration, check out my Pinterest at Nina Dishes.

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