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Top 10 Best Substitutes for Bananas in Cooking and Baking

Bananas are a sweet and delicious fruit that is commonly used in baking muffins, cakes, or quick breads. But if you are out and are in need of something similar to help with your baked good, these top 10 substitutes will come in handy!

a bunch of bananas and one banana half peeled

What are bananas?

A banana is a tropical fruit with a soft, sweet flesh and a firm, yellow skin. It is a rich source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Bananas are often consumed raw as a healthy snack, but they are also a versatile ingredient in cooking and baking. They are often used as substitutes for whole eggs or egg whites in recipes.

In cooking, bananas are commonly used to add natural sweetness and moisture to dishes. They can be mashed and added to pancake batter or smoothies, sliced and added to oatmeal or yogurt, or grilled as a tasty side dish. In savory cooking, bananas can be used to add sweetness and balance the flavors of spicy or tangy dishes, such as curries or chutneys.

In baking, bananas are often used to make moist and flavorful cakes, bread, muffins, and other treats. Overripe bananas are especially suitable for a baking recipe as they are softer and sweeter than firm bananas. Mashed bananas can be used as a substitute for eggs or butter in some recipes, making them a great option for vegan or health-conscious bakers.

banana bread slices a plate with a loaf and bananas in the background

Banana Bread Recipe

Banana bread is a classic example of a baked good that uses mashed bananas as a key ingredient. It is a moist quick bread with a dense yet soft texture. This is typically made by mixing together common ingredients like flour, baking soda, and eggs with mashed bananas and baking it in a loaf pan. Sweet varieties include adding chocolate chips, nuts, or a streusel topping. My favorite version is this Easy Banana Bread Recipe with Sour Cream. This is a simple yet classically delicious recipe full of flavor.

Substitution List

Applesauce

Applesauce is an excellent substitute for mashed bananas in baking, particularly in recipes that require a moist, smoother texture. Applesauce is a natural sweetener and has a smooth texture that is a great way to add moisture to baked goods like muffins, cakes, and bread. It also adds a fruity flavor that can complement many recipes.

Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is another great substitute for banana puree in baking, particularly in recipes that require a similar texture and sweetness. Pumpkin puree is slightly denser than applesauce, which makes it ideal for making pies, quick bread, and muffins. It has a mild, earthy flavor that pairs well with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a great banana substitute in some baking recipes, particularly in recipes that require a tangy flavor and a moist, thick texture. Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor to baked goods like cake, bread, and muffin recipes. The flavor is not as similar to the banana flavor as others and may not be as sweet.

Silken Tofu

Silken tofu is a good substitute for bananas in vegan baking recipes, particularly in recipes that require a creamy texture and structure. Silken tofu has a smooth and creamy texture that can replace the texture and moisture of mashed bananas in cakes and brownies. It is also a good source of protein and low in fat. When using silken tofu as a substitute for mashed bananas, it is important to note that it may not provide as much sweetness as bananas, so you may need to add more sweetener to the recipe.

Avocado

Avocado can be used as a substitute for mashed bananas in some baking recipes, particularly in recipes that require a creamy texture. Avocado adds a rich and creamy texture to baked goods like brownies and muffins. Avocados have a mild flavor but lack the sweetness so extra sugar may be needed unless used for savory dishes.

a bunch of bananas

Prunes

Prunes can be pureed and used in baking recipes that require a sweet and moist texture. Prunes are naturally sweet and have a similar texture to mashed bananas, making them an ideal substitute in sweet recipes like muffins.

Mango Puree

Mango puree can be used as a substitute for bananas in recipes that require a tropical flavor and a sweet and moist texture. Mango puree adds a fruity and sweet flavor to baked goods like smoothies and desserts.

Butternut Squash Puree

Butternut squash puree can be used in recipes that require a similar thicker texture and sweetness. Butternut squash puree has a creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor that can be used in baked goods like muffins, bread, and cakes.

Sweet Potato Puree

Sweet potato puree is a good choice for recipes that require a similar mild taste. Sweet potatoes have a soft and creamy texture that can be used in baked goods like pies, bread, and muffins.

Zucchini

Grated zucchini is a great alternative in recipes that require a moist texture and some sweetness. Zucchini adds moisture and a slightly sweet flavor to baked goods like bread, muffins, and brownies.

Recipes with Bananas

a bunch of bananas and one banana half peeled

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