Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• Pinch of salt

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 2–2½ cups mashed overripe bananas

• ¼ cup dark chocolate or nuts (optional)

Makes 1 standard loaf pan (approximately 9” x 5”).

Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Line a standard loaf pan with a scrunched up piece of parchment paper.

3. In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas and cream together the eggs, brown sugar, applesauce, and vegetable oil.

4. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Add dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

6. Fold in the dark chocolate or nuts (if using).

7. Transfer the batter into prepared pan.

8. Tap lightly to flatten the top and pull paper up at the sides so it’s even.

9. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until an inserted skewer comes out clean.

10. Lift the bread out of the pan and transfer to wire rack to cool.