Strawberry Bread

Strawberry Bread

There’s something special about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house, isn’t there? When it comes to sweet treats, Strawberry Bread holds a unique place in my heart. As a child, my grandmother would always whip up this delightful treat during strawberry season, filling our home with warmth and the sweet scent of ripe strawberries. Now, as an adult, I carry on that cherished tradition, and each loaf I bake brings back those fond memories. This recipe is not just about creating a delicious loaf; it’s about savoring the moments spent in the kitchen, with flour dusting the countertops and laughter filling the air.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 20 mins
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
50 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
210 kcal
Protein:
2 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
8 g
Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Whisk

The Beauty of This Strawberry Bread

It’s a Perfect Blend of Flavor and Texture

The combination of strawberries and lemon zest in Strawberry Bread creates a refreshing taste that’s simply delightful. The sweetness of the strawberries paired with the tangy lemon perfectly balances each bite, making it a treat for the senses.

Ideal for Any Occasion

This bread is versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, or even a snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet afternoon, Strawberry Bread is a crowd-pleaser that fits right in.

Great for Using Up Fresh Strawberries

When strawberries are in season, this recipe is the perfect solution for those extra berries you might have lying around. Instead of letting them go to waste, turn them into a delicious loaf that everyone will love.

A Simple Recipe with Heart

One of the best things about Strawberry Bread is how simple the ingredients are. With everyday pantry staples and just a few fresh ingredients, you can create something truly special without a lot of fuss.

Perfectly Moist and Tender

This bread is incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the incorporation of milk and canola oil. Each slice melts in your mouth, making it hard to resist going back for just one more piece.

Great for Gifting

Wrapping up a loaf of Strawberry Bread makes for a thoughtful gift. Whether for a neighbor, a friend, or a family member, it’s a gesture that shows you care.

Ingredients to Make Strawberry Bread

Strawberry Bread

When creating Strawberry Bread, the ingredients play a key role in bringing out the vibrant flavors. Each component adds something special, enhancing the overall experience of the bread. From the sweetness of the strawberries to the tangy hints of lemon, these ingredients work together in harmony to create a delightful loaf.

  • 1 cup white granulated sugar: The primary sweetener, providing the right amount of sweetness for our bread.
  • 1/2 cup milk: This adds moisture to the bread, ensuring it remains tender and fluffy.
  • 1/2 cup canola oil: Helps keep the bread moist and adds a subtle richness.
  • 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together, contributing to the structure of the bread.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the strawberries.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our bread, providing structure and support.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise, making it light and airy.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
  • 2 cups diced strawberries: The star of our recipe, adding natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to toss the strawberries, helping to prevent them from sinking in the batter.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavors, complementing the strawberries.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds a punch of citrus flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
  • 2 cups powdered sugar: Used for the sweet glaze on top, adding a delightful finish to the bread.
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness to the glaze, making it smooth and luscious.
  • 1/3 cup finely diced strawberries: These are for the glaze, adding even more strawberry flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice: This is added to the glaze for an extra citrus kick.
  • 1 tablespoon milk: Used in the glaze to achieve the perfect consistency.

Recipe Steps for Strawberry Bread

Strawberry Bread

Making Strawberry Bread is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a slice of this scrumptious bread.

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is essential to ensure your bread cooks evenly throughout.
  2. Grease a 9″x5″ bread pan and set it aside. Consider lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This little tip makes the process much simpler.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, milk, canola oil, egg, vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Make sure everything is well combined. This mixture will be the heart of your bread, so take your time here.
  4. In another bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution when combined.
  5. Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this could lead to a tougher texture. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.
  6. In a small bowl, toss the diced strawberries with cornstarch. This step is crucial! It helps prevent the fruit from sinking to the bottom of the loaf. Gently fold them into the batter.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Level the top with your spatula to create an even surface.
  8. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. It’s vital not to open the oven door too early, as this can affect the rise.
  9. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it and place it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps prevent sogginess.
  10. In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, melted butter, diced strawberries, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and fully combined. This will be your glaze.
  11. Once the bread is cool, pour the glaze on top and spread it evenly. The glaze adds a beautiful finish and extra flavor.
  12. Let the glaze set, slice, and serve your lovely Strawberry Bread. Enjoy each bite!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Don’t Overmix: It’s crucial to stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light, fluffy one.
  • Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor, opt for ripe, fresh strawberries. Frozen ones can alter the texture of the bread.
  • Check for Doneness: Always use a toothpick to check if the bread is done. A few crumbs should stick to the toothpick, but no wet batter.
  • Cool Completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely before glazing helps the glaze to set better and enhances the overall presentation.

Expert Tips about Strawberry Bread

Strawberry Bread

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Strawberry Bread turns out perfectly every time:

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer shelf life, refrigerate.
  • Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months.
  • Make It Sweeter: If you prefer your bread sweeter, feel free to add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar to the batter.
  • Personalize It: You can add nuts or spices like cinnamon to create unique flavor variations.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair your Strawberry Bread with whipped cream or cream cheese for an indulgent treat.
  • Glaze Adjustments: If the glaze is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Accompaniments for Strawberry Bread

Enjoying Strawberry Bread is all about creating the perfect experience. Here are some delightful accompaniments to enhance your loaf:

  • Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or mixed berries for a colorful presentation.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream brings a creamy richness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bread.
  • Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a perfect pairing.
  • Brunch Delight: This bread is an excellent addition to any brunch spread. Pair with savory dishes for a balanced meal.
  • Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep the bread fresh longer.
  • Occasional Treat: Perfect for special occasions like birthdays or family gatherings, making it a memorable treat for guests.

FAQ

While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter. This helps avoid excess moisture that could affect the bread’s consistency.

You can store Strawberry Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for a week. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to three months by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

If you’re looking to enhance the flavor of your Strawberry Bread, consider adding nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a crunchy texture. You could also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Experiment with your favorite ingredients to create a personal twist on this classic recipe.

To make Strawberry Bread gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum, as it helps provide the structure that traditional flour offers. Adjust other ingredients accordingly, and keep an eye on the baking time, as it might vary slightly.

Conclusion

Strawberry Bread is a delightful way to indulge in the flavors of spring. With its tender texture and sweet, fresh taste, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your home. I encourage you to try making this charming bread and share it with your loved ones. You won’t regret the smiles it brings!

Strawberry Bread

Strawberry Bread

Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavor of Strawberry Bread, the perfect treat for any occasion! This easy-to-make bread combines fresh strawberries with a delightful glaze, making it an irresistible choice for brunch, dessert, or a snack. Don’t miss out on baking this delicious loaf tonight!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup white granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup canola oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups diced strawberries
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/3 cup finely diced strawberries
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Frying Pan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Cutting Board
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Grease a 9"x5" bread pan and set it aside. You can add parchment paper, hanging on the sides, for easy bread removal.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, oil, egg, vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
  4. In another bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir with a spatula until just combined.
  6. In a small bowl, toss the strawberries and cornstarch. Fold them gently into the batter.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Level the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, no moist batter.
  9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and place it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, melted butter, diced strawberries, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
  11. Once the bread is cool, pour the glaze on top of the bread and spread it evenly.
  12. Let the glaze set, slice, and serve.

Notes

  • Tip 1: DON’T OVERMIX or your loaf will turn out tough instead of tender. Just stir until the dry is moistened. A few tiny pockets of flour are fine.
  • Tip 2: Also, don’t skip tossing the fruit chunks in flour before folding them into the batter, or they’ll all end up at the bottom.
  • Tip 3: Feel free to make the icing as sweet or less sweet as you like.
  • Tip 4: If the glaze is too runny, add more powdered sugar and if the glaze is too thick, add a bit more liquid, 1 teaspoon at a time.

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