Well, it may seem a daft question, but what can I use instead of bananas in banana bread?
After all, the whole point of using bananas in the first place is to add that delicious flavor to the bread.
Maybe you just crave a fruity loaf but have no bananas.
Or perhaps you have got all the other ingredients ready and realize that your bananas are not ripe enough.
If that’s the case, then take a look at the link at the end of this article for some useful advice on ripening bananas.
Of course, if your bananas are overripe to the point of rotting, then you don’t want to use them either.
Let’s see what else you can use instead of bananas in a banana loaf.
The most common substitution for bananas when making banana bread is applesauce. The texture is similar to that of mashed bananas, and the recipe needn’t be changed in any other way. Obviously, the taste will be different, but other than that, the appearance and texture of the bread will be the same. Applesauce and mashed bananas have the same level of sweetness, and a combination of the two can be used for an interesting take on the traditional loaf. Other substitutions for bananas include prunes, egg whites, canned pumpkin, plain yogurt, or avocados. Black beans are also an option, but extra sugar or honey must be added, as the beans have no sweetness to them.
1. Can You Use Applesauce Instead of Bananas in a Banana Loaf?
Applesauce is definitely a possibility if you want to make banana bread but have no bananas.
The texture will be the same as mashed bananas, so you will have no difficulty mixing it evenly through the batter.
And because they have the same level of sweetness, you won’t need to add any extra sugar to the recipe.
In fact, you won’t need to change any ingredients or the proportion of them; just bake as normal.
You can even have a mix of bananas and applesauce as a change from a traditional loaf.
Obviously, the banana flavor won’t be as strong, but this would be ideal for those who prefer a less intense banana taste.
If you think the flavor may be a little too bland without bananas, then you can add cinnamon, which matches the apples perfectly.
Or, when ready to serve, top the bread slices with Greek yogurt or strawberry jam.
For decadent, indulgent applesauce bread, a topping of cream cheese frosting is sure to be a hit with all the family!
Using applesauce is also a great option for those who are allergic to bananas and have watched with envy when others are tucking into their banana bread!
2. What Other Ingredients Can Be Used Instead of Bananas in Banana Bread?
If you are not a fan of bananas or simply don’t have any, then many other fruits can be substituted.
As we have mentioned, applesauce is the easiest to use, as it doesn’t require mashing and is already the perfect consistency.
Any fruit that can be pureed will be acceptable, but some will be easier to work with than others.
Prunes are a great option, but they will change the color of the bread.
Some fruit turns more slushy when mashed or pureed, so try not to make the mix too wet.
No more than one cup of pureed fruit should be used.
Bananas actually work as a binder in the banana bread, not just to add flavor.
So, egg whites can also be used, and they will give the bread more volume.
Canned fruit such as pumpkin has a natural softness to it and will be easy to store through the batter.
Canned strawberries are an interesting idea and will give the loaf an attractive pink color.
Vegetables are often used in sweet recipes, you only have to think of carrot cake, which shouldn’t work but is really delicious.
Therefore, pureed beans will be an interesting substitute for banana bread, similar to making black bean brownies.
One thing to be aware of is that they are not sweet, and to balance this, extra sugar or honey will need to be used.
Applesauce Bread Recipe
Final Thoughts
Applesauce is the best substitute if you are looking for what to use instead of bananas in banana bread.
Other options include different types of pureed fruit, canned fruit, pureed beans, and egg whites.
You should be careful to ensure the mix is not too wet, using no more than one cup of pureed fruit.
In general, the recipe will be exactly the same, but extra sweetness may be required.
So, you have no excuse now – you can still make a tasty loaf, bananas or no bananas!
You may also want to know what can you use if you don’t have a loaf pan.