Banana Bread Made With Applesauce And Sour Cream
Who doesn't love a slice of banana bread, especially when it's warm and fresh out of the oven? However, the traditional recipe for banana bread can be heavy on sugar and butter, making it not exactly the healthiest option out there. But fear not, because there is a way to make banana bread that is not only delicious but also healthier: by using applesauce and sour cream.
Why Applesauce And Sour Cream?
Applesauce and sour cream might seem like an odd combination to add to banana bread, but they are actually great substitutes for some of the less healthy ingredients. Here are some of the benefits of using applesauce and sour cream:
- Applesauce is a great substitute for oil or butter in baking recipes. It adds moisture and helps to keep baked goods from becoming dry.
- Sour cream adds richness and a tangy flavor to the banana bread, while also keeping it moist.
- Both applesauce and sour cream are lower in fat and calories compared to butter and oil.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you'll need to make banana bread with applesauce and sour cream:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Here are the step-by-step instructions for making banana bread with applesauce and sour cream:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, applesauce, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve!
Variations
Looking to mix things up a bit? Here are some variations of banana bread with applesauce and sour cream:
- Add chocolate chips for a sweet and indulgent twist.
- Swap out the walnuts for your favorite nut, like pecans or almonds.
- Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm and cozy flavor.
- Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier option.
Conclusion
Banana bread is a classic recipe that never gets old. By using applesauce and sour cream instead of oil and butter, you can make a healthier version of this beloved treat. And the best part? It still tastes just as delicious! Try out this recipe the next time you have some ripe bananas on hand, and you won't be disappointed.