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 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Favorites

This Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, adding moisture and flavor with applesauce. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack!

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:45:35.162Z

This Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the moistness of applesauce for a delicious treat. Every bite is filled with flavor and comfort, making it a favorite in many households.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender texture from applesauce
Deliciously sweet with a hint of cinnamon
Easy to make and uses simple ingredients
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Banana bread is a beloved classic, cherished for its rich flavor and delightful aroma. This Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe takes the traditional approach and elevates it with the addition of applesauce. The subtle sweetness and moisture from the applesauce not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a wonderfully tender texture that will have everyone reaching for a second slice.

Incorporating applesauce into the recipe is not just about taste; it also makes this banana bread a healthier option. By replacing some butter with applesauce, you reduce the overall fat content without sacrificing flavor. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to indulge without the guilt. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up any extra applesauce you might have on hand!

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best things about this banana bread with applesauce is its versatility. It makes a fantastic breakfast option, providing a sweet start to your day without being overly indulgent. You can also serve it as a snack alongside your afternoon coffee or tea. Its moist texture and sweet flavor profile make it a hit at gatherings, potlucks, or as a homemade gift for friends and family.

Whether you're enjoying a quiet morning at home or hosting a brunch, this banana bread fits seamlessly into any occasion. It's easy to slice and share, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the enticing aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is sure to draw everyone in, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread

To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, start with very ripe bananas. The darker the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you're in a hurry and don't have ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. This helps to keep the bread light and fluffy, preventing it from becoming dense. Additionally, feel free to experiment with mix-ins such as nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to customize your banana bread to your liking.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

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

Mix the ingredients well until combined and proceed to the steps below.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Both Mixtures

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

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 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 delicious Banana Bread with Applesauce!

Storing Your Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay delicious for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it. Wrapped properly, the bread can last up to a week in the fridge without losing its flavor.

For longer storage, banana bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature or heat individual slices in the microwave for a quick treat.

Variations to Try

This Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe serves as a fantastic base for many delicious variations. For a nutty crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. If you’re a fan of chocolate, consider folding in some chocolate chips for a decadent twist. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can also elevate the flavor profile, giving your bread an extra layer of warmth and spice.

For a fruity twist, mix in some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. You could also experiment with different types of applesauce, such as cinnamon-spiced or unsweetened, to tailor the flavor to your preference. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a fun and creative baking experience!

Health Benefits of Applesauce

In addition to enhancing the flavor and texture of your banana bread, applesauce offers several health benefits. It's a great source of dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and promote a healthy gut. The natural sugars found in applesauce provide a sweet taste without the need for excessive added sugar, making this recipe a healthier choice for those watching their sugar intake.

Moreover, applesauce is rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants that support overall health. By incorporating it into your baking, you not only enjoy a delicious treat but also add nutritional value to your meals. This makes your banana bread not just a delightful indulgence, but a smart choice for health-conscious bakers!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work well. Just thaw them 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 applesauce for anything else?

You can use additional mashed bananas or yogurt as a substitute for applesauce.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.