1-Preheating the Oven: First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick spray. This ensures your bread comes out easily without sticking.

2-Preparing the Apple Mixture: Next, mix the chopped apples with the brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and set it aside to let the flavors blend.

3-Mixing the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This step helps distribute the spices evenly for a consistent taste.

4-Creating the Wet Mixture: In another bowl, beat the 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until creamy. Add the 2 large eggs and beat until fully incorporated, then mix in the 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to this mixture, alternating with the 1/2 cup whole milk, and beat just until combined the batter might look curdled, but that’s normal and won’t affect the final result.

5-Assembling and Baking: Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan, then layer on the apple mixture along with its juices. Top with the remaining batter and use a knife to swirl the apples through for even distribution. Bake for 60 75 minutes, covering with foil after 30 minutes to avoid overbrowning. Let the loaf cool completely in the pan before slicing, which takes about 25 minutes to prepare and 70 minutes to bake.