Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe
Highlighted under: Oven Ideas
Enjoy a moist and flavorful Banana Bread with Applesauce, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
This Banana Bread with Applesauce recipe blends the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the moisture of applesauce, creating a delightful treat. It's perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful with a perfect balance of bananas and applesauce
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find
- A great way to use overripe bananas
The Perfect Breakfast Treat
Banana Bread with Applesauce is not just a delightful snack; it's also an excellent option for breakfast. The combination of bananas and applesauce creates a naturally sweet and moist bread that will make your mornings brighter. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese for a special treat that the whole family will love.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Whether you prefer adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for using up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
Bananas are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Incorporating bananas into your diet can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health. When combined with applesauce, which is low in calories and high in antioxidants, you create a wholesome bread that not only satisfies your cravings but also contributes to your overall well-being.
Applesauce is a fantastic substitute for oil or butter in baking, making this recipe lower in fat while still maintaining that moist texture. It's a great way to sneak in extra fruits into your diet, especially for kids who might be picky eaters.
Storing and Freezing Tips
To keep your Banana Bread with Applesauce fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can easily grab a slice whenever you need a quick snack or breakfast option.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. You'll be amazed at how well it retains its moisture and flavor, making it just as delicious as the day you baked it.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl to create the batter.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, applesauce, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cinnamon.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in 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 your homemade banana bread!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Baking Tips for Success
When making Banana Bread with Applesauce, it's essential to use ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots on the skin; this indicates they are perfect for baking.
Mixing your wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them is key to achieving the right texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so stir gently until just combined. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Serving Suggestions
This banana bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further with simple toppings. Try spreading almond butter or peanut butter on a slice for added protein and flavor. For a touch of indulgence, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the top.
Pair your banana bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. You can also serve it at brunch alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How long does banana bread last?
It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for applesauce?
You can use an equal amount of plain yogurt or mashed pumpkin as a substitute.
Banana Bread with Applesauce Recipe
Enjoy a moist and flavorful Banana Bread with Applesauce, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
What You'll Need
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, applesauce, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cinnamon.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 2g