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

Highlighted under: Golden Meals

I love baking banana bread, especially when it includes applesauce for an extra layer of flavor and moisture. The combination of ripe bananas and smooth applesauce creates a wonderfully rich loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat. Over the years, I've tweaked this recipe to balance the sweetness with just the right amount of spice, making it a family favorite. The smell of it baking fills my home with warmth, and I can hardly wait for it to cool before slicing into it – it’s simply irresistible!

Created by

Delaney Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:29:34.473Z

Baking this banana bread with applesauce has become a cherished tradition in my home. The soft texture and the fragrant spices make each slice a delight. I remember the first time I baked it, testing a few variations until I landed on the perfect balance. After many experiments, I found that adding applesauce not only boosts the flavor but also keeps the bread exceptionally moist.

One of my favorite tips is to use very ripe bananas; this enhances the sweetness and brings out their natural flavor. When my family walks in from outside, the aroma wafting through the house makes them instantly crave a slice with butter or a dollop of cream cheese. Trust me, this combination is worth every minute of prep!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with the perfect sweetness from ripe bananas and applesauce
Easy to make, even for novice bakers – no complicated techniques required
Versatile: Enjoy it as a breakfast item, snack, or dessert

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

Ripe bananas are the star of this banana bread recipe, and their ripeness directly influences the flavor and texture of the loaf. Aim for bananas with plenty of brown spots, as they will provide the natural sweetness and moisture you desire. If you only have slightly green bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.

Unsweetened applesauce not only enhances the sweetness of the bread but also adds a wonderful moistness. It acts as a fat substitute, which is particularly useful if you want a lower-fat option. If you find yourself out of applesauce, you can substitute it with mashed pumpkin or pureed pears, although this may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Baking Tips for Success

When preparing your batter, avoid overmixing after you combine the dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a denser loaf that lacks the desired fluffiness. Instead, mix until the flour disappears and you see a few lumps – this is the secret to a light and airy banana bread. Use a rubber spatula for gentle folding to maintain airiness.

To ensure even baking, always use a preheated oven, and place your loaf pan in the center rack. This allows for consistent heat circulation. If the top of your banana bread is browning too quickly, tent a piece of aluminum foil over it halfway through baking to prevent it from burning while the inside continues to cook.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Banana Bread

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

Preparation Steps:

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Oven and Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Stir in the melted butter and mix well. Then, add the applesauce, vanilla extract, and beaten egg.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture until well incorporated but do not overmix.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Once your banana bread is fully cooled, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it. It can last in the freezer for about three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm slices in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

If you’d like to prepare your batter ahead of time, you can mix the dry ingredients and store them in a sealed container. When you’re ready to bake, combine them with the wet ingredients. This way, you can enjoy fresh banana bread whenever you want without the need for extensive prep.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to personalize your banana bread with various add-ins. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add texture and crunch, while chocolate chips provide a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the banana and applesauce. If you prefer dried fruit, consider adding raisins or cranberries for a chewy contrast. These additions should be mixed in just before pouring the batter into the loaf pan, ensuring even distribution.

For a spiced version, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to your dry ingredients. These spices enhance the flavor of the bananas and applesauce, giving your bread a warm, inviting aroma. You can also experiment with extracts, like almond or coconut, to add unique layers of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

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

→ How should I store the banana bread?

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

→ Can I substitute applesauce with something else?

You can use yogurt or pureed pumpkin as a substitute.

→ Is this recipe good for muffins?

Absolutely! You can use the same batter and bake in a muffin tin for about 20-25 minutes.