Bananas are a staple ingredient in many baked goods, from banana bread to muffins and pancakes. However, not everyone can or wants to use bananas in their baking recipes. Whether you have a banana allergy, dislike the taste of bananas, or simply want to try something different, there are plenty of substitutes for bananas that can be used in baking. In this article, we’ll explore the seven best substitutes for bananas in baking and how to use them in your favorite recipes.
What Does Banana Do in Baking?
Bananas are a popular ingredient in baking because they add flavor, texture, and moisture to baked goods. When bananas are mashed and added to a recipe, they release moisture, which helps to keep the baked goods moist and tender. Bananas are also high in natural sugars, which means they can add sweetness to baked goods without the need for extra sugar.
In addition to their moisture and sweetness, bananas also serve as a binding agent in baked goods. The natural pectin in bananas helps to hold the ingredients together, which is particularly important in recipes that don’t use eggs or other binding agents.
Bananas can also add flavor to baked goods, with their distinctive sweet and slightly tangy taste. This makes them a popular ingredient in many baked goods, such as banana bread, muffins, and cakes.
Best Bananas Substitutes in Baking
1. Applesauce
Applesauce is a common substitute for bananas in baking, particularly in recipes that call for mashed bananas. Like bananas, applesauce adds moisture and sweetness to baked goods, while also serving as a binding agent. Applesauce also has the added benefit of being low in fat and calories, making it a healthier option than bananas.
To use applesauce as a substitute for bananas in baking, simply replace the mashed bananas with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce. Keep in mind that applesauce may alter the texture and flavor of your baked goods slightly, so you may need to make adjustments to other ingredients to achieve the desired result.
2. Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree is a great substitute for bananas in baking, particularly in recipes that call for mashed bananas. Like bananas, pumpkin puree adds moisture and sweetness to baked goods, while also serving as a binding agent. Pumpkin puree is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthier option than bananas.
To use pumpkin puree as a substitute for bananas in baking, simply replace the mashed bananas with an equal amount of pumpkin puree. Keep in mind that pumpkin puree may alter the texture and flavor of your baked goods slightly, so you may need to make adjustments to other ingredients to achieve the desired result.
3. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a versatile substitute for bananas in baking, particularly in recipes for breakfast treats like pancakes and muffins. Like bananas, Greek yogurt adds moisture to baked goods, while also adding protein and a tangy flavor. Greek yogurt is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthier option than bananas.
To use Greek yogurt as a substitute for bananas in baking, simply replace the mashed bananas with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt. Keep in mind that Greek yogurt may alter the texture and flavor of your baked goods slightly, so you may need to make adjustments to other ingredients to achieve the desired result.
4. Silken Tofu
Silken tofu is a great substitute for bananas in vegan and dairy-free baking, particularly in recipes that call for mashed bananas. Like bananas, silken tofu adds moisture and serves as a binding agent in baked goods. Silken tofu also has the added benefit of being high in protein and low in fat and calories.
To use silken tofu as a substitute for bananas in baking, simply replace the mashed bananas with an equal amount of silken tofu. Keep in mind that silken tofu may alter the texture and flavor of your baked goods slightly, so you may need to make adjustments to other ingredients to achieve the desired result.
5. Avocado
Avocado is a delicious and healthy substitute for bananas in baking, particularly in recipes for chocolate treats like brownies and muffins. Like bananas, avocado adds moisture to baked goods, while also serving as a binding agent. Avocado is also high in healthy fats and nutrients like fiber and potassium.
To use avocado as a substitute for bananas in baking, simply replace the mashed bananas with an equal amount of mashed avocado. Keep in mind that avocado may alter the color and flavor of your baked goods slightly, so you may need to make adjustments to other ingredients to achieve the desired result.
6. Butternut Squash Puree
Butternut squash puree is a great substitute for bananas in baking, particularly in recipes that call for mashed bananas. Like bananas, butternut squash puree adds moisture and sweetness to baked goods, while also serving as a binding agent. Butternut squash puree is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthier option than bananas.
To use butternut squash puree as a substitute for bananas in baking, simply replace the mashed bananas with an equal amount of butternut squash puree. Keep in mind that butternut squash puree may alter the texture and flavor of your baked goods slightly, so you may need to make adjustments to other ingredients to achieve the desired result.
7. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a unique substitute for bananas in baking, particularly in recipes that call for mashed bananas. Like bananas, chia seeds add moisture and serve as a binding agent in baked goods. Chia seeds are also high in fiber and nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.
To use chia seeds as a substitute for bananas in baking, simply mix one tablespoon of chia seeds with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency. This chia seed gel can then be used as a substitute for one mashed banana in baking recipes. Keep in mind that chia seeds may alter the texture and flavor of your baked goods slightly, so you may need to make adjustments to other ingredients to achieve the desired result.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bananas are a versatile and delicious ingredient in many baked goods, but there are plenty of substitutes available for those who can’t or don’t want to use them.
Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative, a vegan or dairy-free option, or just want to try something different, the seven substitutes listed above are all great options to use in your baking recipes.
With a little experimentation, you can find the perfect substitute for bananas that works best for you and your taste buds. Happy baking!
