Flavor: Applesauce brings a subtle sweetness and a hint of apple flavor to baked goods, which is absent when using vegetable oil. The oil has a neutral flavor and will not contribute any additional taste, allowing other flavors in the recipe to stand out more. The acidity and complexity that applesauce can add will be missing, resulting in a simpler and less fruity flavor profile.
Texture: Replacing applesauce with vegetable oil will result in a noticeable change in texture. Applesauce adds moisture and creates a denser, more moist crumb, whereas vegetable oil provides a lighter, more tender crumb. The mouthfeel will be less thick and more silky with oil. Additionally, vegetable oil does not contribute to the fibrous texture that applesauce can provide, resulting in a smoother texture overall.
