Is it true you can sub applesauce for oil in baking recipes?

[Jeni78]

That you can substitute 1/3 C of oil with 2 T oil and the remainder applesauce in a baking recipe.

Trying to make something a little healthier for the big "D" word (diet).

I'm making cookies with bananas, dates and oats.

 

[suziquzie]

I haven't tried it yet but check out this thread.
http://www.discusscooking.com/forums/f116/what-your-favourite-ingredient-put-muffins-43551.html

 

[AMSeccia]

Yep, but it will affect your texture a bit.

 

[AllenOK]

I've done it, many years ago. The muffins had a nice fluffy texture. I did notice an odd smell from the applesauce though. It's hard to describe. While the muffins were in the oven, I was picking up on an almost "burnt" smell. The only thing I can think or was that some of the applesauce was in contact with the pan, and that caramelized. I can't remember if there was a taste difference. I'd have to make a batch again to see. I might have to do that anyway, as my MIL needs to eat more "diet" foods.

 

[Constance]

Yes you can. Here is some information on that subject, along with other hints for healthier baking:

healthy_baking_101

 

[karenlyn]

Applesauce works really well in place of oil! You can use any really moist fruit, actually. I've used smooshed banana, also, to great effect. Is it just the same as using oil? Of course not. But it's definitely a do-able substitute.