Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the middle. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until evenly distributed.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in applesauce and vanilla until the mixture is smooth.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. If using nuts or dried fruit, fold them in now.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Tent with foil after 45 minutes if the top is browning too quickly.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift it onto a wire rack to cool completely.