Out of Apple sauce, one case
Apple sauce substitutes
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Mashed bananas
Same amount as the apple sauce
The best substitutes for apple sauce are mashed bananas, pureed pears, yogurt, or a mixture of applesauce and oil. Use 1:1 ratio and follow these techniques for optimal results.
- Best for —
- baking
Why it works
Apple sauceApple sauce provides moisture, binding properties, and mild sweetness to recipes. The recommended substitutes work because they provide similar functionality in baking and cooking applications. Each substitute offers different benefits depending on your specific needs and dietary requirements.
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of apple sauce |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mashed bananasbaking | Same amount |
| 2 | Pureed pearsbaking | Same amount |
| 3 | Yogurtbaking | Same amount |
| 4 | Applesauce + oilbaking | Same amount1 cup applesauce + 2 tbsp oil |
| 5 | Pureed applesbaking | Same amount |
Mashed bananas
sweet · similar texture
Mashed bananas provide similar moisture and binding properties to apple sauce. Good for baking applications.
- Best for
- baking, muffins, cakes, when you want natural sweetness
Mashed bananas add natural sweetness and moisture. Use ripe bananas for best results.
Pureed pears
mild · similar texture
Pureed pears provide similar texture and mild flavor to apple sauce. Good for most applications.
- Best for
- baking, spreading, when you want mild flavor, quick substitutes
Use unsweetened pear puree for best results. Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor if needed.
Yogurt
tangy · similar texture
Plain yogurt provides similar moisture and binding properties to apple sauce. Good for baking applications.
- Best for
- baking, muffins, cakes, when you want tangy flavor
Use plain, unsweetened yogurt for best results. Greek yogurt works well for extra moisture.
Applesauce + oil
mild · similar texture
Mix applesauce with oil to recreate the moisture and binding properties of apple sauce.
- Best for
- baking, when you want moisture, quick substitutes
Mix 1 cup applesauce with 2 tablespoons oil. Use neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil.
Pureed apples
fresh · similar texture
Fresh pureed apples provide similar texture and flavor to apple sauce. Good for most applications.
- Best for
- baking, spreading, when you want fresh flavor, quick substitutes
Use fresh, pureed apples for best results. Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor if needed.
How apple sauce compares
When substituting apple sauce, consider the moisture content and binding properties you need. The recommended substitutes work because they provide similar functionality to apple sauce in various cooking applications.
Tips for substituting apple sauce
5 tips- Apple sauce adds moisture and binding properties to baked goods
- Use unsweetened apple sauce for best results when substituting
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance apple flavor
- Store apple sauce in the refrigerator and use within a week
- Apple sauce can be used as a spread, in baking, or as a side dish
Notes on apple sauce
- Mix different purees for complex flavor profiles
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance flavor
- Consider the specific dish when choosing your substitute
- Use fresh fruit purees for the best flavor
Questions
5 questionsCan I use mashed bananas instead of apple sauce?
Yes, mashed bananas are a good substitute for apple sauce in a 1:1 ratio. They provide similar moisture and binding properties, plus natural sweetness.
What's the difference between apple sauce and pureed apples?
Apple sauce is typically cooked and may contain added sugar and spices, while pureed apples are simply fresh apples that have been pureed. Both work well as substitutes.
Can I use yogurt instead of apple sauce?
Yes, yogurt can substitute for apple sauce in a 1:1 ratio, especially in baking. Use plain, unsweetened yogurt for best results.
Can I make apple sauce at home?
Yes, you can make apple sauce at home by cooking peeled, cored apples with a little water until soft, then pureeing them. Add sugar and spices to taste.
Do I need to adjust the recipe when substituting apple sauce?
Generally no ratio adjustment is needed, but consider the sweetness level. Some substitutes may be sweeter or less sweet than apple sauce, so adjust other ingredients accordingly.