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 cup applesauce; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Ideas

I love making this Banana Bread with Applesauce because it incorporates the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and applesauce, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow and perfect for using up those overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Whenever I bake this bread, the sweet aroma fills my kitchen, and it becomes an instant favorite among family and friends. It's a delightful treat for breakfast or as a snack, and trust me, you'll want to make it again and again.

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:13:34.973Z

When I first stumbled upon this Banana Bread with Applesauce recipe, I was shocked at how easy and rewarding it was. The combination of mashed bananas and applesauce not only adds moisture but also keeps the loaf tender for days. I’ve experimented with different spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and they elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

One key tip I learned is to mash the bananas really well to ensure they blend seamlessly into the batter. This way, you’ll achieve a wonderfully smooth texture in every bite. If you have some walnuts or chocolate chips, adding them brings a delightful crunch or sweetness that makes this banana bread even more irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and moist texture from ripe bananas and applesauce
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts
Customizable with nuts or chocolate

Understanding Key Ingredients

The success of this Banana Bread with Applesauce hinges on the ripeness of your bananas. Overripe bananas, with their dark spots, are not just sweeter but also contribute to the bread's moistness and texture. If you find yourself with bananas that are just getting ripe, place them in a brown paper bag to speed up the ripening process. You can even roast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until soft, which enhances their flavor and sweetness.

Applesauce plays a vital role in maintaining moisture without adding much fat. When selecting applesauce, choose unsweetened varieties to control the sugar content in your bread. If you're feeling adventurous, feel free to substitute half of the applesauce with another fruit puree, like pumpkin or pureed pears, for a delightful twist on flavor.

Perfecting Your Mixing Technique

When mixing your wet and dry ingredients, it's crucial to avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a dense loaf rather than the soft, tender texture you want. As soon as you see that the dry ingredients are incorporated into the wet, stop mixing. Look for a few flour streaks remaining in the batter, as it will continue to blend while baking.

Incorporating optional ingredients like walnuts or chocolate chips can enhance both the taste and texture of your banana bread. If you decide to add nuts, toast them lightly in a dry skillet for 5-6 minutes over medium heat to bring out their natural oils and deepen their flavor. The key to a beautiful finish is to fold these extras in gently at the end, ensuring an even distribution without compromising the batter's structure.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup applesauce
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Optional Ingredients

If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to enhance the flavor or some chopped dark chocolate for a richer experience.

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 you'd like to extend its shelf life, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator, where it can last for about a week. Just make sure it's completely cooled before wrapping to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to a soggy loaf.

For longer storage, banana bread freezes exceptionally well. Slice the bread and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the slice at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up!

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few simple touches. Try serving warm slices spread with a layer of butter or a drizzle of honey for added richness. Additionally, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking can create a delightful, crunchy crust.

If you're looking for a more indulgent treat, consider pairing slices of banana bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Adding fresh fruit on the side, such as sliced strawberries or a handful of blueberries, not only complements the flavors but also adds a fresh, fruity contrast that makes this treat feel even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.

→ How can I store banana bread?

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

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I know when it's done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it's done.