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The 14 Best Substitutes For Applesauce

Are you looking for an alternative to applesauce?

Whether it’s for baking, cooking, or just snacking, there are plenty of delicious substitutes that can be used in place of applesauce.

From pears and bananas to sweet potatoes and pumpkin puree – the list of options is endless!

In this article, I will share with you 14 great substitutes for applesauce that are both healthy and tasty.

So if you’re looking for a way to cut down on sugar or add more nutrients into your diet without sacrificing flavor – then keep reading!

What is Applesauce?

Applesauce

Applesauce is a type of puree or sauce, made by cooking and mashing apples with some added sweeteners, such as honey or sugar.

It has a thick, creamy texture and its flavor is often compared to the taste of an apple pie.

Applesauce can be used in baking recipes like cakes, muffins, breads and other pastries instead of butter or oil.

It’s also perfect for making smoothies and sauces for meats like pork chops.

You can make your own homemade applesauce at home using any kind of apple variety you have available.

For example, Granny Smith apples are very popular because they tend to produce sweeter results when cooked down into sauce form.

The best part about making your own applesauce is that you can control the sweetness level according to your preference by adding more or less sugar depending on how sweet you would like it to be!

The 14 Best Substitutes For Applesauce

Applesauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in baking, cooking and even as a condiment for savory dishes.

However, if you don’t have applesauce on hand or need to make substitutions due to dietary restrictions, here are 14 great alternatives:

1 – Pureed Apples

Pureed apples are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the sweet flavor of apples without all the added sugar found in store-bought applesauces.

Making your own pureed apples is incredibly easy. All you need is an apple, some water, and a blender or food processor.

Simply peel and core the apple, then cut it into small pieces before adding it to the blender with a splash of water. Blend until smooth, then add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

The resulting puree can be used as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt, as an ingredient in baking recipes such as muffins or cakes, or even stirred into warm drinks like hot cocoa.

It’s also great for making homemade baby food! Pureed apples make a great substitute for store-bought applesauce when you’re out of options – plus they’re much healthier too!

2 – Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

It has a thick, creamy texture with a mild flavor that’s slightly sweet and earthy.

Because of its natural sweetness, pumpkin puree makes an excellent substitute for applesauce in recipes like cakes or muffins.

It also adds moisture to baked goods while providing essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium.

When substituting pumpkin puree for applesauce, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar or other sweeteners depending on the recipe.

In addition to baking applications, pumpkin puree can be used as an alternative to tomato sauce in pastas or pizzas.

3 – Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious alternative to applesauce.

They have a naturally sweet flavor that pairs well with cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices.

When cooked properly, mashed sweet potatoes can be creamy and smooth without the need for added dairy or sugar.

This makes them an ideal choice for those looking to avoid processed ingredients in their diet.

Mashed sweet potatoes can be used as a topping for pancakes or waffles, stirred into oatmeal or yogurt bowls, or served as a side dish alongside roasted meats and vegetables.

For an extra special treat, try adding some butter and brown sugar before baking until golden brown!

4 – Mashed Banana

Mashed Bananas

Mashed banana is a great substitute for applesauce in baking recipes.

It has a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture that can be used as a one-to-one replacement for applesauce.

The mashed banana also adds moisture to baked goods, making them more tender and flavorful.

When substituting mashed banana for applesauce, it’s important to remember that the sweetness of the banana will affect the overall taste of your recipe.

You may need to adjust other ingredients accordingly or add additional sugar if desired.

Mashed banana is also an excellent way to add nutrition and fiber to desserts like muffins or cakes without compromising on flavor.

5 – Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a versatile and nutrient-rich cooking oil that can be used in place of applesauce.

It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with many dishes, from desserts to savory meals.

Coconut oil is high in healthy fatty acids, which can help boost your metabolism and keep you feeling fuller for longer.

When substituting coconut oil for applesauce, it’s best to use the same amount as the recipe calls for; however, you may need to adjust the liquid content of your dish accordingly.

Coconut oil works great in baking recipes like muffins or cakes as it adds moisture without altering the texture too much.

You can also try using coconut oil when making pancakes or waffles for an extra dose of deliciousness!

6 – Mashed Avocado

Avocado Mash

Mashed avocado is a great alternative to applesauce for those looking for a healthier, more flavorful option.

Avocado has a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with sweet or savory dishes alike.

It can be used as an ingredient in baking, as a topping for toast, or even as a replacement for mayonnaise in sandwiches.

When mashed, it becomes the perfect consistency to use as an applesauce substitute.

Simply mash avocados with lemon juice and salt until they reach your desired texture and sweetness level.

This tasty spread can then be added to oatmeal, smoothies, pancakes, waffles – you name it!

Mashed avocado is also packed with healthy fats and vitamins that make it an excellent choice when looking for something nutritious yet delicious.

7 – Plain Yogurt

Plain yogurt is a versatile and delicious substitute for applesauce.

It has a smooth, creamy texture that can be used in baking or as a topping for dishes like pancakes or waffles.

Yogurt also contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help promote gut health.

When substituting plain yogurt for applesauce, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar and other sweeteners in your recipe.

To give it an extra flavor boost, try adding fresh fruit or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg before serving.

Plain yogurt is an easy way to add more nutrition to your meals without sacrificing taste!

8 – Vegetable Puree

Vegetable puree is a great alternative to applesauce. It’s easy to make and can be used in many recipes that call for applesauce.

Vegetable purees are made by blending cooked vegetables until they are smooth and creamy. Commonly used vegetables include carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, pumpkin, parsnips, turnips, beets and more.

The resulting puree has a mild flavor that pairs well with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. It also adds moisture to baked goods like cakes and muffins without adding sweetness.

Vegetable puree can also be used as a healthy substitute for butter or oil in savory dishes such as soups and stews.

It’s an excellent way to add nutrition to your meals while keeping them flavorful!

9 – Almond Butter

Almond butter is a delicious alternative to applesauce that can be used in a variety of recipes.

It has a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture that adds depth and complexity to dishes.

The butter is made by grinding almonds into a paste and then adding salt, sugar, or other spices for added flavor.

It can be spread on toast or stirred into oatmeal for breakfast, or even used as an ingredient in baking recipes like muffins and cakes.

For those looking for an applesauce substitute, almond butter provides an excellent option with its natural sweetness and nutty taste.

It’s also packed with healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and protein – making it the perfect addition to any meal!

10 – Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a creamy, dairy-free alternative to traditional applesauce.

It has a subtle sweetness and nutty flavor that pairs well with many dishes.

Coconut milk can be used in place of applesauce when baking cakes, muffins, or other desserts.

It also works as an excellent replacement for yogurt in smoothies or parfaits.

When using coconut milk in place of applesauce, it’s important to remember that the consistency will be thinner than what you would get from applesauce.

You may need to adjust the amount of liquid added to your recipe accordingly.

Coconut milk is a great way to add natural sweetness and creaminess without any added sugar or dairy products.

11 – Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a delicious and nutritious alternative to applesauce.

It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a great choice for those looking for a healthier snack option.

The creamy texture of peanut butter also makes it an ideal substitute in baking recipes that call for applesauce.

Simply replace the same amount of applesauce with peanut butter and you’ll get a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with sweet treats like muffins or banana bread.

You can also use peanut butter as a topping on oatmeal or toast for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

For those looking to add more variety to their diet, try using peanut butter instead of applesauce!

12 – Drained And Mashed Silken Tofu

Silken Tofu

Drained and mashed silken tofu is a great alternative to applesauce for those looking for an egg-free, vegan option.

Silken tofu has a soft, custard-like texture that can be easily blended into smoothies or used as a substitute for dairy products in baking.

When drained and mashed, it takes on the consistency of applesauce while still providing a creamy flavor.

It’s also packed with protein and contains no added sugar – making it ideal for adding sweetness without any additional calories.

To use as an applesauce replacement, simply drain the silken tofu before mashing it with a fork or blending it in a food processor until desired consistency is achieved.

This versatile ingredient can be used in many recipes such as cakes, muffins, pancakes, waffles and more!

13 – Honey

Light honey

Honey is a natural sweetener that can be used as an alternative to applesauce in many recipes.

It has a unique flavor profile, with notes of floral and citrus, making it perfect for adding sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.

Honey also adds moisture to baked goods, which helps keep them tender and moist.

When substituting honey for applesauce, use half the amount of honey as you would applesauce and add an extra tablespoon or two of liquid (such as water or milk) to help thin out the mixture.

This will ensure that your finished product isn’t overly sweet or dense.

For best results, use raw honey for its added nutritional benefits and intense flavor.

14 – Other Fruit Puree

Fruit purees are a delicious and versatile way to add sweetness and flavor to any dish.

From peach puree to banana puree, there are plenty of options for replacing applesauce in recipes.

Mashed bananas can be used as an alternative, as they provide similar texture and sweetness.

You could also try making your own fruit compote with fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries.

For a tropical twist, you could blend mangoes or papayas into a smooth puree that adds color and flavor to desserts like pies or cakes.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not ask your family for their favorite fruits? With so many options available, you’re sure to find something everyone will love!

Conclusion

In conclusion, applesauce is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in baking, cooking, and even as a condiment.

However, if you don’t have applesauce on hand or need to make substitutions due to dietary restrictions, there are plenty of delicious alternatives available.

From pureed apples and pumpkin puree to mashed sweet potatoes and banana puree – the possibilities are endless!

The next time you’re looking for a way to cut down on sugar or add more nutrients into your diet without sacrificing flavor, try one of these 14 great substitutes for applesauce.

Applesauce

The 14 Best Substitutes For Applesauce

If you're out of applesauce or want to try something different, look no further! In this article, I'm sharing my top 14 substitutes for applesauce. From mashed banana and dates to pumpkin puree and yogurt, I'll explain the best way to use each one and how it will change the flavor and texture of your dish. Whether you're looking for a healthier option or just a new twist, you're sure to find something that suits your tastes!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Substitutes
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 79 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Pureed Apples
  • Pumpkin Puree
  • Mashed Sweet Potatoes
  • Mashed Banana
  • Coconut Oil
  • Mashed Avocado
  • Plain Yogurt
  • Vegetable Puree
  • Almond Butter
  • Coconut Milk
  • Peanut Butter
  • Drained And Mashed Silken Tofu
  • Honey
  • Other Fruit Puree

Instructions
 

  • Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
  • Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.
CEO at Happy Muncher | benjamin@happymuncher.com | Website | + posts

Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.