Banana substitutes
Banana substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Applesauce
Same amount as the banana
Pureed apples with similar moisture and binding properties.
The best substitutes for banana are applesauce, pumpkin puree, or other pureed fruits like sweet potato or avocado, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of banana | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Applesaucebaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Pumpkin pureebaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Sweet potato pureebaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Avocadobaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Greek yogurtbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Mashed potatoesbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Applesauce
different taste, similar texture
Pureed apples with similar moisture and binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, muffins, cakes, quick breads
Neutral flavor, similar texture.
Pumpkin puree
different taste, similar texture
Pureed pumpkin with similar moisture content.
- Best for
- baking, muffins, cakes, quick breads
Adds orange color and pumpkin flavor.
Sweet potato puree
different taste, similar texture
Pureed sweet potato with similar texture.
- Best for
- baking, muffins, cakes, quick breads
Adds orange color and sweet flavor.
Avocado
different taste, similar texture
Creamy fruit with similar binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, muffins, cakes, quick breads
Adds healthy fats, green color.
Greek yogurt
different taste, similar texture
Thick yogurt with similar moisture content.
- Best for
- baking, muffins, cakes, quick breads
Adds protein, tangy flavor.
Mashed potatoes
different taste, similar texture
Cooked and mashed potatoes with similar texture.
- Best for
- baking, muffins, cakes, quick breads
Neutral flavor, similar binding properties.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use applesauce instead of banana?
Yes, applesauce is a great substitute for banana in baking. It provides similar moisture and binding properties, though it has a different flavor.
What's the difference between ripe and unripe bananas?
Ripe bananas are sweeter, softer, and easier to mash, while unripe bananas are firmer and less sweet. Ripe bananas are better for baking and smoothies.
Can I use pumpkin puree instead of banana?
Yes, pumpkin puree can work as a substitute, though it will add orange color and pumpkin flavor to your baked goods.
Why are bananas so popular in baking?
Bananas add moisture, sweetness, and binding properties to baked goods, making them a popular ingredient in muffins, cakes, and quick breads. They also provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar.
Tips for substituting banana
6 tips- Bananas add moisture, sweetness, and binding properties to baked goods
- Ripe bananas are sweeter and easier to mash
- Bananas can be frozen and used later in baking
- Bananas pair well with nuts, chocolate, and cinnamon
- Bananas can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Bananas can be used to make smoothies and ice cream