Are you craving something sweet, moist, and delicious without feeling guilty about extra calories? Look no further than the best banana bread with applesauce recipe. This delightful twist on a classic treat retains all the comfort-food factor while cutting back on sugar and fat.

Applesauce acts as a perfect substitute for oil or butter in banana bread. Not only does it keep the bread moist, but it also adds natural sweetness, allowing you to reduce the amount of added sugar. This substitution is not only better for your health but can also be a sneaky way to get your family to consume more fruit.

The bananas themselves are a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with potassium, fiber, and essential vitamins like vitamin C and B6. When overripe bananas are mashed into the bread mix, they become a natural sweetener as well.

To make this banana bread even more mouthwatering, consider adding in your favorite extras like walnuts for some crunch or dark chocolate chunks for added decadence — remember that moderation is key!

Here is a simple best banana bread with applesauce recipe that anyone can make at home:

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe bananas, mashed

– 1/2 cup applesauce (unsweetened)

– 1/4 cup milk (any kind will do)

– 1/2 cup brown sugar (you can adjust according to taste)

– 2 eggs

– 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour (for an even healthier option)

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– Optional: 1/2 cup of mix-ins like walnuts or chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, stir together the mashed bananas and applesauce. Beat in the milk and brown sugar followed by the eggs one at a time.
3. Combine the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt in another bowl. Add this mixture to the banana mixture and stir just until blended.
4. If you’re using any mix-ins, gently fold them into the batter now.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy this best banana bread with applesauce warm or at room temperature with your favorite hot beverage for an indulgent yet guilt-free treat!