Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup applesauce; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

I love baking banana bread, especially when I can incorporate the natural sweetness of applesauce. This Banana Bread with Applesauce recipe is a delightful twist that keeps the bread moist and flavorful. The combination of ripe bananas and applesauce not only enhances the taste but also reduces the fat content, making it a healthier choice. I enjoy sharing this with friends and family, and it always disappears quickly! Whether it's breakfast or a snack, this bread is sure to please everyone.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:09:34.430Z

When I first experimented with adding applesauce to my banana bread, I was amazed at how it transformed the texture. The bread became incredibly moist without relying too heavily on oil or butter. I also found that the flavor was enhanced as the applesauce complemented the bananas perfectly. It’s a delightful way to create a healthier version of a classic treat.

One tip I learned is to use ripe bananas. The riper they are, the sweeter your banana bread will be. I always aim for bananas with lots of brown spots, which indicate perfect ripeness. This makes a significant difference in the overall taste, ensuring that every bite is a burst of sweetness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist texture thanks to the addition of applesauce
Deliciously sweet with a hint of cinnamon
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

Baking with Bananas and Applesauce

The union of ripe bananas and applesauce in this recipe not only brings a natural sweetness but also improves the overall texture. Ripe bananas, which should have dark spots and be soft to the touch, add moisture and help bind the ingredients. Applesauce acts as a wonderful fat replacement, reducing the need for excessive butter while keeping the bread tender and fluffy. If you're curious about experimenting, try using a mixture of applesauce and mashed avocado for added creaminess and a lighter texture.

When selecting your applesauce, opt for unsweetened varieties. This allows you to control the sweetness and flavor profile of the bread more effectively. Consider using homemade applesauce if you want an extra burst of flavor; it's easy to make by simmering peeled apples with a touch of water until soft, then mashing them into a puree. This small swap can elevate the taste and also make your banana bread feel even more personal and heartfelt.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

Overmixing your batter can result in a dense loaf. Stir the wet and dry ingredients together gently until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine. If you're unsure, a spatula can be a useful tool to fold the ingredients without overworking the batter, ensuring your bread has a light and airy structure.

Another tip to enhance flavor is to allow your bananas to brown before using them. The browning process helps to develop natural sugars, resulting in a richer taste. If you're short on time, you can also place unpeeled bananas in a 300°F oven for about 15-20 minutes to achieve that overripe sweetness quickly.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup applesauce
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Mix ingredients well and ensure no lumps remain before baking.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, applesauce, melted butter, vanilla extract, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, salt, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

Combine and Pour

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your warm banana bread with a spread of butter or on its own!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try mixing in nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Storage and Freezing

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It will last for about 3-4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the bread. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This method can keep your bread fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

If you have leftover slices, they can be toasted for a delightful breakfast treat. Add a smear of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, use slices as a base for a decadent French toast by soaking them in a mixture of eggs and milk before cooking. This makes for a hearty meal that utilizes every bit of deliciousness from your banana bread!

Variations to Try

For those looking to mix it up, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra texture and flavor. Chocolate chips add a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fruitiness of the banana and applesauce. If adding nuts, lightly toast them beforehand to enhance their flavor, and fold them into the batter just before pouring it into the loaf pan.

Another twist could include spices such as nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile. Experimenting with different spices can change the whole character of your banana bread, allowing it to shine with seasonal variations. You might find that a dash of nutmeg gives it a warm, cozy feel, perfect for colder months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but it may affect the texture slightly.

→ How do I know when my banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.

→ Can I freeze the banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What's the best way to store banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.