Making banana bread with applesauce adds moisture and enhances the flavor while reducing fat. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Reasons to try it
This banana bread is soft, flavorful, and healthier than traditional recipes, thanks to the applesauce. It’s a wonderful way to use overripe bananas.
"This banana bread is the best I’ve ever made!"
It combines the natural sweetness of bananas and applesauce, making it a dish everyone enjoys.
The cooking process explained
The process is simple. Mash bananas, mix with other ingredients, pour into a loaf pan, and bake until golden.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 60 min | Total Time: 70 min
What you’ll need
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1/3 cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 cup sugar (use less for less sweetness)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas.
- Mix in applesauce, melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine baking soda, salt, and flour.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Pour into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve banana bread warm with butter or plain. It pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. For added flavor, try topping it with nuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of honey.
Storage and reheating tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave or toaster oven.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should remain slightly lumpy.
- Use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean.
Creative twists
- Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
- For a spiced version, add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw them first and drain excess liquid.
Is it necessary to use applesauce?
Not really, but it helps keep the bread moist and reduces fat.
How can I ripen bananas quickly?
Place them in a brown paper bag at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas and speeds up ripening.
Moist Banana Bread with Applesauce
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This banana bread is soft, flavorful, and healthier than traditional recipes, thanks to the applesauce. It’s a wonderful way to use overripe bananas.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1/3 cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 cup sugar (use less for less sweetness)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash the bananas in a large bowl.
- Mix in applesauce, melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Combine baking soda, salt, and flour in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Pour into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
Notes
Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness. Don’t overmix the batter; it should remain slightly lumpy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: banana bread, applesauce, healthy dessert, breakfast recipe, quick bread