Craving a moist, flavorful homemade loaf without all the oil? This Oil Swap Amish Loaf is the perfect healthier twist on the classic Amish friendship bread. By replacing most of the oil with unsweetened applesauce, you still get that soft, tender crumb and nostalgic flavor without the guilt. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, this quick bread comes together easily with pantry staples and bakes to golden perfection.
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this lightened-up loaf is a must-try. Top it with cinnamon sugar or nuts for extra flair!
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What is Oil Swap Amish Loaf?
Amish Friendship Bread. The name conjures up images of cozy kitchens, generations sharing recipes, and maybe even a horse-drawn buggy parked outside the blogger’s studio, right? One wonders, is this recipe really from an Amish community? Did they secretly swap out the oil and whisper the secret to a passing traveler? Or is it just a delicious, convenient, and evocative name to market bread.
Who’s to know? But as they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach… and perhaps the way to a community’s heart is through a delicious loaf of bread. So, ditch the questions and let be honest this bread is delicious, so get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Oil Swap Amish Loaf:
This Oil Swap Amish Loaf is about to become your new baking staple! The best part? It’s how incredibly moist and tender the bread turns out despite using less oil. Plus, baking at home is way easier on the wallet than buying fancy artisan bread at the store. Top it with a simple cinnamon-sugar swirl or a handful of chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
If you love this loaf, be sure to check out our Classic Banana Bread recipe for another easy and delicious quick bread option. Ready to experience the magic of this “better-for-you” bread? Let’s get baking!
Key Ingredients for Oil Swap Amish Loaf:
Here’s what you’ll need to bake up this delicious and healthier loaf:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
How to Make Oil Swap Amish Loaf:
This Oil Swap Amish Loaf isn’t just good for you, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up! It’s the perfect balance of sweetness, warmth, and comforting flavors, with a soft and tender crumb. The applesauce adds a subtle depth and keeps the loaf incredibly moist for days. Plus, it only takes about an hour from start to finish, perfect for a weekend baking project.
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Oil Swap Amish Loaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
A moist and comforting Amish-style quick bread made healthier by swapping oil with applesauce. Perfectly tender, lightly spiced, and irresistibly good!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sugar, applesauce, and oil until well combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Add chopped nuts for extra texture. Store at room temperature for 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
What to Serve Oil Swap Amish Loaf With

This Oil Swap Amish Loaf is incredibly versatile! Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Classic Breakfast: Enjoy a slice with a smear of butter or cream cheese alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
- Sweet Treat: Toast a slice and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Savory Pairing: Serve it with a warm bowl of soup or a hearty salad for a balanced meal.
- Party Platter: Slice the loaf and serve it with a variety of jams, spreads, and cheeses for a brunch or appetizer spread.
Top Tips for Perfecting Oil Swap Amish Loaf:
Want to ensure your Oil Swap Amish Loaf turns out perfect every time? Here are some tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough loaf. Mix until just combined.
- Measure Accurately: Accurate measurements are key for consistent results. Use measuring cups and spoons designed for baking.
- Room Temperature is Key: Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk for increased volume and better emulsification, leading to a more tender crumb.
- Applesauce Swap: While unsweetened applesauce is recommended, you can use sweetened applesauce if you reduce the sugar in the recipe by 1/4 cup.
- Nuts for Flavor: Consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer to check for doneness. If the skewer comes out clean, the loaf is done. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
To keep your Oil Swap Amish Loaf fresh and delicious:
- Storing: Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, slice the loaf and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen slices at room temperature or in the microwave. You can also toast the slices for a warm, crispy treat. To reheat the entire loaf, wrap it in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
Final Thoughts:
This Oil Swap Amish Loaf is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthier twist. The subtle applesauce flavor, combined with the warm spices and tender crumb, makes it irresistible. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, snack, or dessert, this loaf is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and mix-ins to customize it to your liking. Happy baking!
Looking for more classic Amish recipes and natural remedies? Check these out:
- Our latest posts on Medium – Discover more old-fashioned recipes and tips
- Follow us on Pinterest – Daily pins full of Amish goodness
- Best Amish Recipes for Easy Homemade Meals – A roundup of wholesome, simple favorites
- Amish Apple Cake Recipe – Moist, flavorful, and perfect for fall
- Amish Amoxicillin Natural Remedy – A powerful herbal immune booster
- Amish Chocolate Whoopie Pies – Soft, chocolatey, and filled with sweet nostalgia
- Best Amish Recipes for Easy Homemade Soups, Main Dishes & Desserts
Feel free to explore, save, and share your favorites – there’s a whole world of cozy, homemade magic waiting for you!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can use any neutral-flavored oil, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or grapeseed oil. Coconut oil (melted) will add a distinct coconut flavor.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour works best, you can substitute half the amount with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients.
Yummy