Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake : Irresistible & Easy

When you’re craving something sweet but still want to keep it wholesome, this Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake is the perfect answer. Moist, rich, and deliciously chocolaty, this cake skips the eggs and uses ripe bananas and applesauce for natural sweetness and texture. It’s the ideal dessert for those looking for a healthier treat without compromising on flavor.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is incredibly simple to follow and guaranteed to impress. This egg-free dessert also happens to be a great option for kids, picky eaters, and anyone who enjoys banana recipes and healthy sweets.

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What Is Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake?

A unique twist on traditional banana bread, this cake combines the decadence of chocolate with the moist texture of bananas and applesauce. It’s a cross between a rich chocolate cake and a classic banana bread recipe, but healthier and more satisfying. The applesauce acts as a natural sweetener and fat substitute, keeping the cake moist without added oils or butter.

It’s one of those yummy desserts you can enjoy as a snack, breakfast treat, or a comforting end to any meal. The texture is tender and dense, making it a standout among other food cakes.

Benefits of Using Applesauce in Cake Baking

Using applesauce in baking is more than just a healthy swap — it brings a host of benefits:

Reduces the need for added fats like butter or oil
Acts as a natural sweetener, lowering the need for refined sugars
Adds moisture, creating a soft and tender crumb
Helps bind ingredients, especially in egg-free baking

These benefits make it ideal for recipes like this Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake, especially for health-conscious or vegan-friendly diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake

Here’s a full list of what you’ll need. Stick with the exact measurements for best results:

1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 large bananas)
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional (but delicious):
½ tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract

These simple pantry ingredients combine to create a deeply flavorful cake that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Kitchen Equipment Checklist

Before you start, make sure you have the following:

Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
Measuring cups and spoons
Fork or potato masher (for the bananas)
Whisk or electric mixer
Rubber spatula
9×13-inch baking dish or cake pan
Cooling rack
Knife or cake tester

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide for Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth. A few small chunks are fine — they’ll melt into the batter.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add the applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract (if using) to the mashed bananas. Whisk until fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). This helps prevent lumps and ensures even distribution.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold it in gently — don’t overmix.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a handful to sprinkle on top before baking.

Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle with the reserved chocolate chips. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

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Expert Baking Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor

Use overripe bananas: The darker, the better! They provide natural sweetness and extra moisture
Don’t skip sifting: Cocoa powder can clump — sifting ensures a smoother batter
Check doneness early: Ovens vary, so start checking at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking
Add a touch of espresso powder (optional): A pinch intensifies the chocolate flavor

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Applesauce Cake

Using unripe bananas: These won’t mash well or add enough flavor
Overmixing the batter: This can make the cake dense or rubbery
Skipping the chocolate chips: They add texture and decadence that elevates the entire dessert
Using sweetened applesauce: Always go for unsweetened to control the cake’s sugar level

How to Serve and Present Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake Beautifully

Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a classic finish
Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or dairy-free topping
Add fresh banana slices or berries on the side for a pop of color
For kids, cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters
Use a cake stand for a polished, bakery-style presentation, or stack slices on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, homemade feel

Recipe Variations: Make It Your Own

Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch
Swap chocolate chips for white or dark chocolate chunks
Use whole wheat flour for added fiber
Stir in dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries for a natural sweet surprise
Turn the recipe into muffins or mini loaf cakes — adjust baking time accordingly

How to Store Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to a week — bring to room temp before serving
Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months

Reheating Tip: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven feel

Food Pairings for Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake

A warm mug of chai tea or cinnamon-spiced herbal tea
A glass of cold milk or almond milk for a kid-friendly combo
A creamy café latte or hot cocoa for a comforting break
Fresh fruit slices or a fruit smoothie for a balanced snack

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FAQs About Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! It already contains no eggs or dairy. Just ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Can I use sweetened applesauce?
You can, but you may want to reduce the sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.

How ripe should my bananas be?
Very ripe — brown spots and soft texture are ideal. This ensures the best flavor and moisture.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use two pans or a larger one and adjust baking time accordingly.

Nutrition Information (Per Slice, based on 12 servings)

Calories: 240 kcal
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 24g
Protein: 3g
Calcium: 25mg
Iron: 1.5mg
Potassium: 280mg

Please note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.

Recipe Notes

Banana Tip: If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, place them in a paper bag with an apple for a few hours or bake them (in their peels) at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes until soft and sweet.

Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free 1:1 all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum for a seamless swap.

Lower Sugar Version: Reduce both the granulated and brown sugar by ¼ cup each for a less sweet but still flavorful cake.

Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day once the flavors have settled. Bake it in the evening, cover when cool, and enjoy the following day.

No Chocolate Chips? You can substitute with chopped dates, raisins, or simply leave them out for a classic chocolate banana flavor.

Muffin Option: To turn this recipe into muffins, divide the batter into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes.

Final Thoughts and Reader Call to Action

This Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake proves that you don’t need butter, oil, or eggs to make a luscious, indulgent dessert. It’s simple to make, wholesome, and packed with rich chocolate flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for your family or a potluck, this cake will be a standout hit.

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