Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings together the sweetness of strawberries and the comforting taste of banana bread, then this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is just what you need! It’s a perfect mix of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for brunch gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, which means you can have a delicious loaf ready in no time.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines two classic ingredients into something extraordinary. The moistness from the bananas paired with juicy strawberries creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a family breakfast or giving it as a thoughtful gift, this bread is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice bakers can shine.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet taste of strawberries and bananas in each slice.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a loaf ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or freeze it for later!
• Deliciously Versatile: Serve it plain or dress it up with the strawberry glaze for extra sweetness.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this banana bread fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe calls for simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Bread:

• 1 medium overripe banana
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup (59ml) water
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (divided)
• ½ cup (119ml) vegetable oil
• ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (244g) Krusteaz Pancake Mix
• 1 cup (149g) chopped strawberries

For the Glaze:

• ¾ cup (86g) powdered sugar
• ⅛ teaspoon strawberry extract
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1-2 drops red food coloring (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can play around with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix in Other Fruits: Replace some strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a berry medley.
• Use Whole Wheat Pancake Mix: For a healthier twist, opt for whole wheat pancake mix instead.
• Spice It Up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to give your bread an aromatic kick.

How to Make Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven helps ensure that your bread rises perfectly as it bakes.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large bowl, add your overripe banana. Use a fork or potato masher to mash it until smooth. The riper the banana, the sweeter your bread will be!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

To your mashed banana, add the eggs, water, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture forms the base of your batter and keeps it moist.

Step 4: Mix in Sugar and Pancake Mix

Now it’s time to sweeten things up! Add granulated sugar and pancake mix into the bowl. Gently stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix; we want our bread tender!

Step 5: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in those luscious chopped strawberries. They add bursts of juicy sweetness throughout each slice.

Step 6: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs when it’s done.

Step 7: Cool Before Frosting

Let your bread cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. It’s important to let it cool completely before frosting so that your glaze doesn’t melt away.

Step 8: Make and Apply Glaze

To prepare your strawberry glaze, whisk together powdered sugar with remaining vanilla extract, strawberry extract if using, and heavy cream until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bread—this adds an irresistible finish! The glaze won’t set completely but will form a nice crust on top.

And that’s how you make this delightful Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can make your strawberry banana bread even more scrumptious!

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots; they’re perfect for mashing into your batter.
• Fold strawberries gently: When adding strawberries to the batter, fold them in carefully to avoid breaking them apart too much. This helps maintain their juicy texture throughout the bread.
• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread at the 40-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs for perfect moisture.
• Cool before frosting: Allow your bread to cool at least 15-20 minutes before removing it from the pan and frosting it. This prevents the glaze from melting off and gives your bread a beautiful finish.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to customize your recipe by adding nuts or chocolate chips along with the strawberries. This adds different textures and flavors that complement the sweetness of the banana and berries.

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

This strawberry banana bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for any brunch table or coffee break!

Garnishes

• Fresh Strawberries: Slice some fresh strawberries on top of your glazed banana bread to enhance its fruity flavor and add a pop of color.
• Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of mint leaves adds a refreshing touch, making each slice feel light and invigorating.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a refreshing side that complements the sweetness of the bread while adding some creaminess.
• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor alongside your banana bread.
• Smoothie Bowl: Whip up a smoothie bowl with spinach, banana, and any berries you have on hand. It’s nutritious and pairs beautifully with sweet baked goods!
• Coffee or Tea: Serving this bread alongside warm beverages enhances its comforting qualities. Choose a light herbal tea or a smooth coffee blend to complement the flavors.

Now you’re ready to bake an irresistible strawberry banana bread that will impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making mornings a little sweeter and stress-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bread in a covered container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you notice it getting stale, consider slicing it and toasting the slices for a delicious snack!

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the unfrosted bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe!

Can I use frozen strawberries in my Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make my Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe healthier?

You can substitute half of the vegetable oil with applesauce or Greek yogurt. Using whole wheat pancake mix instead of regular mix is another great option!

What should I do if my Strawberry Banana Bread doesn’t rise?

If your banana bread doesn’t rise as expected, check that your pancake mix is fresh and has not expired. Also, ensure that you measured your ingredients accurately.

How long does this Strawberry Banana Bread last?

The bread lasts for about 3 days at room temperature when stored properly. For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy making this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe as I do! It’s a wonderful combination of flavors that can brighten up any breakfast or brunch table. Enjoy every slice with family and friends, and don’t hesitate to share your creations. Happy baking!