Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup applesauce; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Banana Bread with Applesauce because it brings an incredible moistness and natural sweetness to the classic recipe. Each slice is infused with the rich flavors of ripe bananas and the subtle hint of applesauce, making it perfect for breakfast or as a snack. I've experimented with various ingredients to find the best balance, and I can firmly say that this version is a crowd-pleaser. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that is hard to resist!

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:57:34.546Z

Every time I bake this Banana Bread with Applesauce, it reminds me of my childhood. I used to watch my grandmother mix the ingredients by hand, and now I cherish recreating that memory in my own kitchen. The addition of applesauce provides a delightful moistness that enhances the overall texture and taste.

One tip I love to include is letting the bananas ripen fully for maximum sweetness. You want those brown spots as they indicate the bananas are at their best! Also, don't be afraid to add nuts or chocolate chips if you're feeling adventurous; they make wonderful additions to the traditional recipe!

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender loaf that stays fresh for days
Natural sweetness from ripe bananas and applesauce
Easy to customize with mix-ins like nuts or chocolate

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to this Banana Bread's moist texture lies in the combination of ripe bananas and applesauce. Ripe bananas, ideally with brown spots, not only lend natural sweetness but also contribute to a tender crumb. Applesauce acts as a fat replacer and helps to keep the bread moist without adding extra oil. If you're in a pinch, substitute with 1/2 cup of mashed pumpkin or a similar pureed fruit to achieve similar moisture levels while adding a slight twist to the flavor.

Using melted butter provides a rich flavor, but if you're looking for a lighter version, you can swap it out for a neutral oil like vegetable or canola. Keep in mind that the melted fat should be slightly cooled before mixing, as adding hot butter to other ingredients can affect the texture of your loaf. Also, the sugar in this recipe can be adjusted: using brown sugar instead introduces caramel notes that enhance the overall depth of flavor.

Baking Tips for Success

When mixing your ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to tough banana bread due to gluten development. Mix until the flour is just incorporated, which may still leave some lumps. This will ensure a beautifully soft loaf when baked. Additionally, for better rising, make sure your baking soda is fresh; it should bubble vigorously when tested with vinegar. Old baking soda can lead to a denser loaf.

For an extra touch, consider adding mix-ins like chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips. If using mix-ins, fold them in gently after the batter is prepared. This not only adds flavor and texture but also creates visually appealing swirls throughout the bread. If you choose to go nut-free or are preparing this for a crowd with allergies, simply omit them without adjusting baking times.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

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

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the applesauce and melted butter. Add baking soda and salt, then mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, blend in the flour until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. You can also sprinkle some nuts or chocolate chips on top before baking.

Storing and Freezing Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is particularly warm or you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating it; however, this may slightly alter the texture, making it denser. To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and it can last up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

If you plan to enjoy the loaf over a week, consider slicing it before storage. This way, you can easily take out only what you need. Use a serrated knife for clean, even slices. For a warm treat, pop the slices in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds, restoring the delightful homemade aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread pairs wonderfully with a spread of cream cheese or a simple layer of butter for a rich breakfast option. For more indulgent treats, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup. You could also slice the bread and serve it as part of a brunch spread, alongside yogurt and fresh fruits for a balanced meal.

Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an aromatic twist. These spices elevate the fragrance and flavor, perfect for a cozy coffee date or as a comforting snack on a chilly day. Fresh fruit toppings, like sliced bananas or berries, can add a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the bread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the sugar?

You can use brown sugar or a sugar substitute if you prefer a healthier option, but it may affect the taste and texture slightly.

→ Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans, or adjust the baking time for a larger loaf.