Whatever the reason you’re on the hunt for a banana substitute, rest assured that there’s a whole bunch of delicious options that you may already have on hand.
Whether it’s for baking a loaf of banana bread without the actual bananas or whipping up a dairy-free smoothie with that perfect creamy consistency, I’ve got you covered with alternatives that keep your dishes delicious and on track.
Rating The Best Banana Substitutes
I sifted through many potential substitutes for bananas and narrowed it down to these seven contenders that I believe make the cut above the rest. The larger the number, the closer the match to that creamy, sweet essence we associate with ripe bananas.
The taste of banana was at the forefront of my mind because, let’s face it, we want that hint of sweetness and familiar flavor profile that bananas bring to dishes.
Equally important were texture and consistency since bananas often provide moisture and binding properties in recipes. Availability was another practical consideration because who wants to search high and low for an obscure substitute?
Applesauce
When it comes to swapping out bananas, applesauce is a fantastic option that nearly takes the cake—or should I say, banana bread? Its natural sweetness and moist texture makes it an excellent choice for baked goods. You can’t go wrong using applesauce in muffins or pancakes, where bananas typically lend their sweet flavor and tender crumbs.
- Substitute ratio: Use a 1:1 ratio in baking recipes for moisture and sweetness.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt has a creamy consistency that mimics bananas quite well. Although not as sweet, its tanginess can be a delightful twist, especially in smoothies or as a base for creamy desserts. It’s also packed with protein, making it a healthier alternative that adds some nutritional value to your recipe.
- Substitute ratio: Use three-quarters of a cup of Greek yogurt for every one banana in smoothies and adjust as needed for taste and thickness.
Avocado
Avocado is the buttery substitute you didn’t know you needed. It doesn’t bring the sweetness of bananas but compensates with its texture. Avocado works wonders in chocolate desserts, where its mild flavor can be masked while contributing to the creamy consistency we desire from bananas.
- Substitute ratio: In non-baked items like smoothies or puddings, use an equal amount of avocado as you would banana and adjust according to desired creaminess.
Silken Tofu
Silken tofu is a surprisingly versatile substitute that maintains the moisture level in your recipes. Unlike bananas, it doesn’t add sweetness, but its silky texture and neutral taste are perfect for achieving that desired creamy consistency in smoothies, desserts, and even some savory dishes.
- Substitute ratio: Blend an equal amount of silken tofu as you would banana to maintain creaminess in desserts and smoothies.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Mashed sweet potatoes have a dense, comforting texture that works well in baked goods like muffins or breads. Their earthy, sweet taste is more pronounced than bananas, but it works. For an autumnal spin on pancakes, try using mashed sweet potatoes to bring some color and a flavor that’s hard to beat.
- Substitute ratio: Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing bananas in baking for added moisture and subtle sweetness.
Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree has a moist quality and mild flavor, which spices can enhance. It’s not as sweet as bananas but fits right into recipes where you’d appreciate a touch of fall flair (think pumpkin spice bread or muffins). The consistency is ideal for creating baked goods without altering the structure too much.
- Substitute ratio: Replace banana with pumpkin puree using a 1:1 ratio for baking and consider adding extra sweetener if needed.
Pear Puree
Pear puree might not be the first thing that comes to mind. It offers a mild sweetness and moistness similar to bananas but with a lighter flavor profile. Pear puree is best in recipes with subtle fruitiness without overwhelming other ingredients. Pear puree is your friend if you’re baking something delicate like scones or light tea cakes.
- Substitute ratio: Use pear puree in a 1:1 ratio for baked goods to keep them moist and lightly sweetened.