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Easy Banana Apple Bread Recipe

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How to make Banana Apple Bread is so easy—and this quick recipe combines ripe bananas and chunky applesauce for the ultimate moist, flavorful loaf.

If you’re looking for a cozy, old-fashioned treat that tastes like home, this banana apple bread recipe will surely become a new favorite snack. Whether enjoying a slice on a crisp fall morning with your coffee or serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this banana apple loaf bread is pure comfort food.

Alt text: Sliced banana apple bread on a wooden board next to a silver knife. A slice is served on a white plate with a fork, on a rustic wooden table.

Looking for easy desserts? Try my recipe for Southern Fried Apples, strawberry banana dessert, or this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

If you love banana bread made with applesauce, you’ll adore this sweet twist. It’s:

  • Simple to make with everyday pantry staples
  • Full of rich banana flavor and tender chunks of apple
  • Perfectly moist thanks to the applesauce
  • A great way to use overripe bananas and leftover apples

Ingredients for Easy Banana Apple Bread

You’ll need the following ingredients to make this easy banana and apple bread recipe:

  • Walnuts (optional) – Adds crunch and a nutty finish.
  • Ripe bananas – The riper, the better! Overripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture.
  • Chunky applesauce – I used homemade chunky applesauce, but you can easily use your favorite store-bought brand. For a smoother texture, regular applesauce works just as well.
  • Eggs – Add one at a time for a smoother batter.
  • Baking soda – Helps the bread rise perfectly.
  • Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
  • All-purpose flour – For the ideal tender crumb.
  • Milk – Helps blend the flavors and hydrate the batter.
  • Cinnamon (optional) – A cozy addition that enhances the apple and banana flavors.
A sliced loaf of banana bread on a wooden board, with a piece on a white plate beside a fork and knife. The rustic setting conveys warmth and homeliness.

Ingredient Notes

Although I used chunky homemade applesauce in this banana apple sauce loaf, you can easily substitute it with smoother applesauce or even freshly grated apples for a different texture. Want to make your applesauce from scratch? Be sure to check out my easy homemade applesauce recipe!

How to Make Banana Apple Bread Step-by-Step

Here’s a simple guide on how to make banana apple bread. You’ll find the full instructions in the printable recipe card below!

  1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Meanwhile, mix the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, and cinnamon (if using)—in a medium bowl, then set aside.
  3. In a separate large bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract.
  4. Next, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
  5. After that, pour the batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
  6. Then, bake in the preheated oven for 60–80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  8. Finally, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Optional: Dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Tip 1: You can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them and drain excess liquid before adding to your batter.
  • Tip 2: If you like more texture, fold in small chunks of fresh apple along with the applesauce.
  • Tip 3: Drizzle the cooled loaf with a simple vanilla glaze or serve with whipped cream for a dessert twist.

Make-Ahead Tip

You can prepare the batter for this Banana Apple Bread ahead of time! Mix the batter, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes, then give it a quick stir and pour it into your prepared loaf pan. This is a great option for busy mornings or prepping ahead for guests!

Storage & Reheating

Storage: Store your banana bread using apple sauce in an airtight container on the counter for 3–4 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reheating: Warm a slice in the toaster or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Freezing: First, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Additions & Substitutions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you make apple bread like banana bread?

Yes! This apple banana bread moist recipe is the perfect example. The applesauce adds natural moisture and flavor, just like mashed bananas do.

Can you toast Banana Apple Bread?

You sure can—and it’s delicious! I love it warm with a pat of butter and a light dusting of powdered sugar. Furthermore, it’s fantastic as a breakfast treat or a dessert with tea.

How do I keep Banana Apple Bread fresh?

Cover and store it on the counter for 3–4 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze it.

Is this banana bread made with applesauce healthy?

It’s certainly healthier than many dessert options! Additionally, you can reduce sugar further or use a sugar substitute if needed.

Looking for Delicious breakfast recipes?

Grab your 5 breakfast recipes now!

Cover of a breakfast recipe booklet with syrup-drenched pancakes and the text "5 of the Best Breakfast Recipes." Warm, inviting tone.
Two slices of banana bread on white plates rest on a wooden table, accompanied by two forks and a white napkin. The scene feels cozy and inviting.

More Recipes You’ll Love

I hope you enjoy this banana apple loaf recipe as much as we do! If you try this easy banana apple bread recipe, be sure to leave a comment and rating below. It means the world to me to hear from you!

ADD RECIPE CARD HERE (add as much info as possible)

Nutrition is only an estimate based on the Very Well Fit Nutrition Calculator.

Alt text: Sliced banana apple bread on a wooden board next to a silver knife. A slice is served on a white plate with a fork, on a rustic wooden table.

Easy Banana Apple Bread Recipe

Yield: 1 loaf
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Additional Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
How to make Banana Apple Bread is so easy—and this quick recipe combines ripe bananas and chunky applesauce for the ultimate moist, flavorful loaf. If you’re looking for a cozy, old-fashioned treat that tastes just like home, this banana apple bread recipe is sure to become a new favorite snack.

Ingredients

  • 3–4 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup chunky applesauce
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

    1. Preheat your oven to350°F (175°C).
    2. Mix dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, cinnamon if using) in a medium
      bowl and set aside.
    3. In a large bowl, mash bananas, then add eggs one
      at a time. Stir in applesauce and vanilla extract.
    4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix just until
      combined—don’t overmix!
    5. Pour the batter into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
    6. Bake for 60–80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
      Optional: Dust with powdered sugar once fully cooled.

Notes

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Tip 1: You can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them and drain excess liquid before adding to your batter.

Tip 2: If you like more texture, fold in small chunks of fresh apple along with the applesauce.

Tip 3: For a dessert twist, drizzle the cooled loaf with a simple vanilla glaze or serve with whipped cream.

Additions & Substitutions

Add-ins: Here are some tasty extras you can mix into your banana apple bread for added flavor and texture:

  • Mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or a brown sugar streusel topping – These simple additions bring extra sweetness and a touch of crunch.
  • Chocolate Chips – For a dessert-style loaf, fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.
  • Shredded Coconut – Add ¼ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut to give your bread a tropical twist and a bit of chew.

Substitutions: Want to customize the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs? Try these easy swaps:

  • Almond Milk or Oat Milk – Replace dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
  • Whole Wheat Flour – Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier, heartier loaf.
  • Maple Syrup or Honey – Reduce refined sugar by using ¼ to ⅓ cup of maple syrup or honey instead. If using a liquid sweetener, you may need to slightly reduce the amount of other liquids or increase the flour to balance the batter.

Storage & Reheating

  • Storage: Store your banana bread using apple sauce in an airtight container on the counter for 3–4 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Reheating: Warm a slice in the toaster or microwave for 10–15 seconds.
  • Freezing: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

    Baking time may vary due to what loaf pan is being used. If using cast iron, additional time may vary.

Nutrition Information
Yield 12 Serving Size 1
Amount Per Serving Calories 436Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 31mgSodium 123mgCarbohydrates 97gFiber 10gSugar 44gProtein 8g

Calculated Nutrition is an estimate.

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