Question

Can I make banana bread with no oil or butter and still have a good banana bread? Will it come out remotely the same if I replace it with Apple sauce instead?

Answer 1

Yes, you can definitely make banana bread without oil or butter and achieve good results. Using applesauce as a substitute for oil or butter is a common and healthier alternative in baking. Applesauce provides moisture and helps keep the bread tender, similar to oil or butter.

To replace oil or butter with applesauce in your banana bread recipe, use an equal amount of applesauce as a direct substitution. For example, if your recipe calls for 1/2 cup of oil or butter, use 1/2 cup of applesauce instead.

Keep in mind that using applesauce may alter the flavor slightly, giving the banana bread a hint of apple taste. However, this change is usually subtle and complements the banana flavor nicely.

Here's a basic recipe for banana bread without oil or butter, using applesauce as a replacement:

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, applesauce, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

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

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the flour is fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent a tough texture in the final bread.

5. If you're adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this point.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.

7. Bake the banana bread in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

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

Enjoy your delicious and healthier banana bread made with applesauce!