Following my post, How to Replace Fats in Cooking , here are my handy tips for cutting out fat in baking -- replace butter, oil or shortening with ease!
Fat Replacer #1 Applesauce
Applesauce is my go-to fat replacement and it works best when replacing oil. I like to use applesauce in cakes, cupcakes and some cookie recipes (soft cookies). Example Recipe: Apple Crisp Muffins .
Fat Replacer #2 Beans
Mashed and pureed beans can also replace fat and have the added benefit of providing a fudgey texture. I tend to use beans in brownies and oatmeal cookies since I like my brownies fudgey and my oatmeal cookies a little chewy. Example Recipe: Butter Bean Cookies .
Fat Replacer #3 Pumpkin
Pumpkin is my second choice after applesauce. It's not as "wet" as applesauce so it's a good choice if you're trying to have a somewhat dryer and less moist muffin or cake. The only drawback with pumpkin is that it leaves an orange color which is not always visually appealing. It can also add a hint of flavor. On that note, however, I love adding pumpkin to chocolate recipes! Give it a try with muffins, some cakes, chocolate treats and oatmeal cookies. Example Recipe: Pumpkin-Raisin Oatmeal Cookies .
Fat Replacer #4 Shredded Zucchini
I stumbled upon this secret when making my beloved Chocolate Zucchini Muffins . It's amazing how the zucchini locks in moisture! P.s. the zucchini bits all but vanish during baking, making the hidden vegetable undetectable. I like to use this trick with muffins and breads.
Fat Replacer #5 Bananas
When you need to cut fat into a recipe, use a banana. See how I make my banana biscuits in the following video to get an idea. You can also cut it in the old fashioned way -- it works! esp. in a food processor. Example Recipe: Banana Biscuits .
Fat Replacer #6 Tofutti Cream Cheese
If you need to cut fat in but don't want a banana flavor, Tofutti Cream Cheese works wonders. I use it when making pastries. Example Recipe: Sugar Cookies .