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; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore making banana bread, and this recipe with applesauce takes it to a new level! The addition of applesauce makes the bread incredibly moist and adds a lovely flavor that perfectly complements the bananas. I love how this recipe is straightforward, using pantry staples that I usually have on hand. Whether I'm whipping it up for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, it always hits the spot. Plus, I appreciate how easy it is to prepare and the wonderful aromas that fill my kitchen as it bakes.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:41:34.551Z

When I first tried adding applesauce to my banana bread, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. However, the results were fantastic! The applesauce not only keeps the bread moist but also adds a subtle sweetness that balances the bananas perfectly. I experimented with different spices and found that a hint of cinnamon works wonders here.

Another tip I discovered is that if you're using very ripe bananas, you can skip the sugar entirely. The natural sugars in ripe bananas, along with the applesauce, provide enough sweetness to satisfy my cravings without being overwhelming. Every slice is a delightful reminder of home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Incredibly moist texture thanks to the applesauce
Perfect blend of banana and apple flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert!

The Role of Applesauce

In this banana bread recipe, applesauce serves as a fantastic ingredient that contributes not only moisture but also a subtle sweetness. When baking, the water content in applesauce helps create a soft, tender crumb, elevating the texture of your banana bread. It's an excellent substitute for some of the fat typically required in baked goods, allowing for a lighter feel without sacrificing richness.

Applesauce also encompasses natural pectin, which aids in the binding process when combined with bananas. This results in a loaf that holds together beautifully without becoming dense. If you're out of applesauce, you can substitute it with an equal amount of yogurt or mashed pear, but remember that this might slightly alter the final flavor.

Perfecting Your Technique

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can activate the gluten and yield a tough loaf. It's best to mix until just combined; some lumps are perfectly okay. Also, ensure your bananas are very ripe; they should have dark spots or even be blackened for the best flavor and sweetness.

As for baking, every oven is unique, so while the recipe suggests 60 minutes at 350°F, start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the last 10-15 minutes to prevent burning while the center cooks through.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist for about 3-4 days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing slices. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. When ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or reheat in a toaster oven for a warm, fresh experience.

This banana bread is versatile and can easily be enhanced with additional ingredients. Consider adding a handful of walnuts or chocolate chips for a delightful texture contrast. For a touch of spice, a teaspoon of cinnamon can be incorporated into the dry ingredients. Don’t shy away from experimenting; it’s all about finding your favorite combination!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before getting started:

Ingredients

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

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your banana bread:

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. If you prefer a spicier bread, a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavors beautifully.

Tips for Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this banana bread vegan, you can replace the egg with a flax egg by mixing one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to your wet ingredients. This will help bind the ingredients effectively while keeping the bread moist.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just watch the baking time—it can vary depending on the blend you use, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes to ensure perfect results.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread pairs delightfully with a smear of cream cheese or a dollop of almond butter. You can also serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey can elevate the flavors even further.

If you're serving this banana bread for breakfast, consider adding slices of fresh fruit on the side, such as strawberries or blueberries, to create a balanced meal. A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the flavors beautifully and can truly enhance your morning routine.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your banana bread collapses in the center, it could be due to underbaking or too much moisture. Be sure to measure your flour correctly—spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can lead to excess flour. If needed, you can adjust the amount of applesauce slightly for drier bananas.

On the flip side, if your bread turns out too dry, it may have been baked for too long. If the edges are dark but the center appears underbaked, try reducing both the oven temperature slightly and the cooking time. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the crust from hardening while the center remains raw.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ What can I substitute for applesauce?

You can use pureed pumpkin or unsweetened yogurt if you prefer.

→ How do I know when the bread is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

→ Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use two loaf pans if doubling the batch.