Name: Strawberry Banana Bread
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 7oz g Fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces); 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (to toss with strawberries); 1¾ cups All-purpose flour (for the bread); 1 teaspoon Baking soda (for leavening); ½ teaspoon Fine sea salt (to enhance flavor); ¼ teaspoon Ground cardamom (for a warm aroma); 3 g Small ripe bananas (about 1 cup smashed); ½ cup Light brown sugar (for additional sweetness); ¼ cup Granulated sugar (for sweetness); 2 pieces Large eggs (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract (for flavor); ½ cup Unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)

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There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked Strawberry Banana Bread wafting through the kitchen. I remember the first time I tried making it; it was a rainy Saturday, and the cozy atmosphere called for some baking therapy. The sweet smell of ripe bananas and juicy strawberries blending together was enough to brighten any gloomy day. With each slice, you get a taste of nostalgia, bringing back memories of family gatherings and warm comforting evenings. This recipe has become a staple in my home, and it never fails to impress. Whether enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack, Strawberry Banana Bread is perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 45 mins

Prep Time:
45 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Whisk

What Makes This Strawberry Banana Bread Special

Deliciously Moist Texture

One of the things I love most about Strawberry Banana Bread is the incredible moisture it boasts. The combination of mashed bananas and fresh strawberries creates a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Each bite is bursting with fresh fruit flavor, making it a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert.

Perfect for Using Overripe Bananas

It’s a well-known fact that overripe bananas are a baker’s best friend. Instead of tossing them out, I’ve learned to turn them into delicious baked goods. The natural sweetness of overripe bananas enhances the flavor of the bread while also adding moisture that keeps it fresh longer.

Versatile and Adaptable

This recipe is incredibly forgiving and versatile. You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding less sugar or incorporating other fruits like blueberries. Feeling adventurous? Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of indulgence. The possibilities are endless!

Great for Meal Prep

Preparing Strawberry Banana Bread is an excellent way to meal prep for the week. I often bake a loaf on Sunday, and it lasts for several days, making it easy to grab a quick breakfast or snack. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you need something wholesome and filling.

Family-Friendly Recipe

This recipe is not just for adults; kids love it too! It’s a fantastic way to introduce fruits into their diet, and they’ll hardly notice they’re eating healthy. Plus, it’s easy to involve them in the baking process, turning it into a fun family activity!

Freezer Friendly

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can easily freeze slices of Strawberry Banana Bread. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice of this delightful bread whenever cravings hit!

Shopping List for Strawberry Banana Bread

When it comes to making Strawberry Banana Bread, the ingredients are simple yet effective. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. The combination of fresh strawberries and bananas not only provides natural sweetness but also moisture that keeps the bread from drying out. Let’s dive into the key players of this delightful recipe.

Fresh strawberries: 7 oz (200 g) of hulled and chopped strawberries add a burst of flavor and moisture.
Granulated sugar: 2 tablespoons (24 g) to enhance the sweetness of the fruit.
All-purpose flour: 1¾ cups (218 g) for structure and texture.
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon for leavening.
Fine sea salt: ½ teaspoon to balance flavors.
Ground cardamom: ¼ teaspoon to add a warm, spicy note.
Small ripe bananas: 3 (about 1 cup smashed) for natural sweetness and moisture.
Light brown sugar: ½ cup (105 g) for a deeper sweetness.
Granulated sugar: ¼ cup (50 g) for additional sweetness.
Large eggs: 2 at room temperature to bind the ingredients.
Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons for flavor.
Unsalted butter: ½ cup (113 g) melted and cooled for richness.

How to Assemble Strawberry Banana Bread

Making Strawberry Banana Bread is a straightforward yet fulfilling process. Each step is an opportunity to get a little creative while bringing out the best flavors of the ingredients. Let’s walk through the steps to create a loaf that’s sure to impress.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. While the oven heats, lightly butter an 8½-by-4½-inch loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing some to overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking.
In a bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Transfer them to a fine mesh sieve set over another bowl to catch the juices that will drain out. This process helps to concentrate the strawberry flavor. Let the strawberries sit for about 30 minutes, tossing them occasionally.
While the strawberries are draining, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Allow it to cool until lukewarm.
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cardamom, and salt. This step not only combines the dry ingredients but also ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.
In another bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add in the brown sugar, remaining granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until well combined and smooth.
Pour the banana mixture and the lukewarm melted butter into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined. Don’t overmix; the batter should still be slightly lumpy with no dry flour visible.
By now, your strawberries should have released about 3 tablespoons of liquid. Set it aside for later use in the glaze. Pat the drained strawberries dry with paper towels and sprinkle them with 2 tablespoons of flour to coat. This helps to prevent them from sinking in the batter.
Carefully fold the floured strawberries into the batter until just incorporated. Then, pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. If desired, use a bench scraper to create a fine line of fat down the center of the loaf to help it crack nicely while baking.
Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for about 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. If you’re using a 9-by-5-inch pan, check after 45 minutes, as it may bake faster.
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool for about 30 minutes. Carefully lift the bread out of the pan using the parchment overhang.
To make the glaze, sift the reserved strawberry juice into powdered sugar, whisking until smooth. Use a pastry brush to spread the glaze over the top and sides of the loaf. Let the glaze set and the loaf cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Banana Bread warm or at room temperature, and store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.

Things Worth Knowing

Preventing Sinking: Coating the strawberries in flour prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and butter at room temperature helps achieve a better emulsion and texture in the bread.
Testing for Doneness: When testing the bread with a toothpick, make sure it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.
Cooling Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a short time before transferring it to a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
Even Slicing: Use a serrated knife for clean, even slices of your Strawberry Banana Bread.

Recipe Variations about Strawberry Banana Bread

When it comes to Strawberry Banana Bread, there are countless ways to get creative. Here are some delicious variations to consider that will keep this recipe exciting and unique.

Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture that complements the soft bread.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Berry Medley: Mix in a variety of berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, along with the strawberries for a mixed berry flavor.
Spiced Up: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give the bread a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend if you need a gluten-free version of this delicious bread.
Storage: To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Freezing: Slice the bread and wrap it tightly to freeze for up to three months. Enjoy a slice whenever you crave something sweet!

Side Dish Ideas for Strawberry Banana Bread

Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Banana Bread can elevate your culinary experience. Here are some delightful ideas to serve alongside this tasty bread:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the bread perfectly.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh strawberries for a satisfying breakfast or brunch treat.
Nut Butter: Spread some almond or peanut butter on a slice for added protein and flavor.
Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Hot Beverage: Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a refreshing cold brew to enjoy during breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
Seasonal Occasion: This bread is perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or brunches during spring when strawberries are in season.

FAQ

Absolutely! If you have frozen strawberries, you can use them in place of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing them into your batter. The moisture from thawed strawberries can add extra juiciness to your Strawberry Banana Bread.

If your Strawberry Banana Bread turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. When you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Another reason could be using too much flour, so be sure to measure accurately. You can also add an extra banana or a splash of milk to lighten the texture.

To store leftover Strawberry Banana Bread, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing it. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you want!

Definitely! You can get creative by adding other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even nuts for added texture. Just remember to adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of the additional fruits. This makes your Strawberry Banana Bread even more delicious!

Conclusion

Strawberry Banana Bread is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the tartness of fresh strawberries. It’s a comforting recipe that not only fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma but also satisfies your cravings for something sweet and wholesome. I encourage you to try your hand at this recipe. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Your taste buds will thank you!