Banana Bread Made With Applesauce Instead Of Oil
Banana bread has always been a staple in American households. It is a classic comfort food that is perfect for breakfast, snack time or even as a dessert. However, the traditional recipe for banana bread calls for oil or butter, which can add unhealthy amounts of fat and calories into the mix. Luckily, there is a healthier alternative. Making banana bread with applesauce instead of oil not only cuts down on the fat content, but also adds a subtly sweet flavor to the bread.
The Benefits Of Applesauce In Banana Bread
Applesauce is a fantastic substitute for oil in banana bread for several reasons. Firstly, it is lower in calories and fat than oil, so it makes the bread healthier. Secondly, applesauce has natural sweetness, which adds flavor to the bread. Lastly, using applesauce instead of oil makes the bread moist and tender.
The Recipe
Here is a simple recipe for banana bread made with applesauce instead of oil:
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Add the baking soda and salt, and mix well.
- Gradually stir in the flour, and mix until just combined.
- If desired, stir in the chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Some Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect banana bread with applesauce:
- Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Use unsweetened applesauce to keep the bread healthy.
- Don't overmix the batter. Mix until just combined, or the bread can become dense.
- If using walnuts, toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes to bring out their flavor.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Conclusion
Banana bread has always been a favorite among Americans, but it can often be made with unhealthy amounts of oil or butter. By using applesauce instead, you can make a healthier and tastier version of this classic treat. With just a few simple ingredients and some tips and tricks, you can make banana bread that is moist, tender, and delicious.