Moist Sugar Free Banana Bread with Applesauce is a delightful and wholesome treat that brings the comfort of home baking right to your kitchen. This recipe is the perfect solution for when you find those three ripe bananas staring you down, begging to be transformed into something delicious. The combination of bananas and applesauce results in a wonderfully moist loaf, making it perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a sweet treat for dessert. Plus, it’s sugar-free, so you can enjoy it guilt-free!
Why Youโll Love This Dish
This banana bread isnโt just any quick bread; itโs a family favorite that brings everyone together. It’s quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and approved by those little taste testers at home. Each slice offers a taste of nostalgia while being healthier, thanks to the absence of added sugar and the inclusion of applesauce.
"This banana bread is a game changer! My kids devoured it, and I love that itโs sugar-free!" โ A happy home cook
So whether youโre baking for a potluck or just want to treat yourself to something comforting, this recipe is bound to impress.
What Youโll Need
Gather these items for your Moist Sugar Free Banana Bread with Applesauce:
- 3 very ripe medium bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter or coconut oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Make sure your bananas are nice and ripeโthis is key for that sweet, moist flavor!
Directions to Follow
Now, let’s bring this delicious banana bread to life:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease and flour a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, applesauce, melted butter or oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula until just incorporated. Do not overmix. If you’re using nuts, fold them in gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Make sure to keep an eye on it while baking; every oven can be a bit different!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving this banana bread is as simple as slicing it up! Enjoy it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. You could also serve it alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt. If you want to really kick it up a notch, consider pairing it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy flavor boost.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! You can store this banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for about three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If youโd like to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm slices in the microwave or a toaster oven for that fresh-baked taste.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Make sure to use very ripe bananas; they should be speckled with brown spots for maximum sweetness.
- For a dairy-free version, coconut oil is a fantastic substitute for butter.
- If you’re short on time, consider using store-bought applesauceโitโs a great shortcut!
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You could add in chocolate chips for a sweet twist, swap in different nuts for some added crunch, or even throw in some dried fruit like cranberries or raisins. If you’re in the mood for something tropical, try adding shredded coconut or crushed pineapple!
Common Questions
How long does this take to prep?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and baking time is around 50 to 60 minutes.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What if I donโt have applesauce?
You can substitute it with an equal amount of mashed avocado or yogurt, which will also keep the bread moist.
Moist Sugar Free Banana Bread with Applesauce
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful banana bread is made sugar-free with mashed bananas and applesauce, resulting in a moist loaf perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients
- 3 very ripe medium bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter or coconut oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease and flour a standard 9ร5 inch loaf pan.
- Combine the mashed bananas, applesauce, melted butter or oil, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Mix until just combined.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a separate medium bowl.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula until just incorporated. Do not overmix. If youโre using nuts, fold them in gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Make sure to use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter. Consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American