Picture this: the sun is shining through your kitchen window, a soft breeze carrying the sweet scent of fresh strawberries. You take a moment to inhale deeply, the anticipation of a new baking adventure tingling in the air. Strawberry Bread is that delightful surprise you didn’t know you needed in your life—an irresistible combination of fluffy bread and juicy, ripe strawberries. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms ordinary mornings into special occasions, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
When I first stumbled upon this delightful treat, I was on the hunt for a creative way to use up the bountiful strawberries I’d picked from the farmer’s market. The result was a luscious loaf brimming with flavor and a hint of nostalgia brought by cinnamon and vanilla. It’s effortlessly simple to whip up, making it ideal for busy weekends or a cozy evening at home. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this scrumptious Strawberry Bread recipe that promises to convert even the staunchest fast food lovers into home-cooked food enthusiasts!
Why is Strawberry Bread a Must-Try?
Irresistible sweetness: Bursting with fresh strawberries, this bread captures the essence of summer in every slice.
Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers will shine in the kitchen.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, this bread is versatile enough to fit any moment.
Healthier twist: Made with white whole wheat flour and Greek yogurt, it’s a guilt-free dessert that won’t weigh you down.
Family favorite: This recipe is sure to impress everyone, making it a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire! For more delicious ideas, check out the ultimate collection of fruit breads.
Strawberry Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1.5 cups white whole wheat flour – This adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the bread.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the sweetness of the strawberries.
- 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
- 0.67 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread beautifully; can be reduced for less sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil – Adds moisture and a subtle tropical note; melted butter can be a good substitute.
- 0.5 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt – Keeps the bread moist with a lovely tang; can use regular yogurt if preferred.
- 2 large eggs – Provides structure and richness to the bread.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Infuses the bread with a lovely aroma and flavor.
- 1.5 cups small diced strawberries – The star of the show! Fresh strawberries add juicy bursts of flavor.
For the Glaze
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and gives a lovely glossy finish to the bread.
- 0.5 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the glaze with a hint of sweet vanilla.
- 1 tablespoon milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for easy drizzle.
Now that you have all the ingredients at your fingertips, you’re one step closer to baking a stunning loaf of Strawberry Bread that will enchant your loved ones!
How to Make Strawberry Bread
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for a perfect bake. This step is crucial for getting that lovely rise and texture in your Strawberry Bread!
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Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl by combining the white whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and baking soda. Whisk these together until well blended—this will ensure even flavor throughout the bread!
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Combine the wet ingredients in another bowl by whisking together granulated sugar, melted coconut oil, Greek yogurt, eggs, and pure vanilla extract until smooth. This will create a luscious base that complements the strawberries beautifully.
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Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients gradually, mixing just until combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your bread fluffy and tender. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
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Fold in the small diced strawberries gently with a spatula, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. Their juicy goodness will be the highlight of every bite!
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Pour the batter into a prepared loaf pan, greased or lined with parchment paper for easy removal. Spread the batter evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
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Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and a delicious aroma should fill your kitchen!
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Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk for your desired consistency if needed.
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Drizzle the glaze over the cooled Strawberry Bread to add a delightful sweet finish. Let it sit for a few moments before slicing so the glaze sets nicely.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh strawberries on top for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Bread
Room Temperature: Store your Strawberry Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful for those delightful morning bites.
Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: Feel free to freeze your Strawberry Bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, ensuring you preserve that luscious strawberry flavor.
Reheating: When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw the bread at room temperature or toast individual slices in a toaster or oven until warm.
Strawberry Bread Variations
Customize your Strawberry Bread to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Let your creativity shine through these delightful alternatives.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the white whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delicious alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk yogurt in place of Greek yogurt and a dairy-free milk for the glaze for a creamy texture.
- Sugar-Free: Swap out granulated sugar for your favorite sugar substitute, like erythritol, to enjoy a healthier version without the sweetness.
- Berry Blast: Mix in other berries, like blueberries or raspberries, alongside strawberries for a fruity twist that bursts with mixed flavors.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an enjoyable crunch that complements the tender crumb.
Spiced Up: For a more aromatic touch, sprinkle in a touch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon. This will elevate the flavor profile and entice your senses!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Top your cooled bread with a melted dark chocolate drizzle for a decadent finish that will make it utterly irresistible.
- Spicy Strawberry: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a surprising heat that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries.
What to Serve with Strawberry Bread?
There’s nothing quite like a comforting slice of sweet bread to elevate your meals and moments.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer your strawberry bread with creamy yogurt and fresh berries for a delightful breakfast treat. The tanginess of yogurt beautifully balances the sweetness of the bread.
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Crisp Green Salad: A fresh arugula or spinach salad adds a refreshing crunch alongside the sweet bread. Toss with a light vinaigrette to enhance that contrast of flavors.
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Herbal Tea: A steaming cup of chamomile or peppermint tea pairs perfectly, providing a soothing companion to your strawberry delight, making for a cozy afternoon snack.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream drizzled on top adds a touch of elegance to your strawberry bread, turning it into a splendid dessert!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The creamy richness complements the bread’s fruity notes splendidly.
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Fresh Strawberries: For a burst of flavor, garnish the plate with additional fresh strawberries. Their sweetness will echo the bread, creating a beautiful presentation.
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Iced Coffee: A glass of chilled iced coffee brings a refreshing kick to your strawberry bread experience, perfect for warm afternoons or weekend brunches.
Make Ahead Options
Strawberry Bread is an ideal candidate for meal prep, ensuring a quick and delightful treat on busy mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix the wet and dry ingredients separately and combine them right before baking. Store the batter in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. Additionally, diced strawberries can be prepped up to 3 days ahead; just place them in a sealed bag to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, pour the mix into a prepared loaf pan and bake as directed. With these make-ahead instructions, you’ll enjoy fluffy, homemade Strawberry Bread with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Making Strawberry Bread
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and yogurt are at room temperature for a smoother batter. This helps in achieving a light and fluffy Strawberry Bread.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread, so be gentle!
- Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can be used but may make the bread soggy if not properly drained.
- Check for Doneness: Test the bread with a toothpick for doneness, inserting it into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your Strawberry Bread is ready!
- Storing: Keep your Strawberry Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.
Strawberry Bread Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red and have a sweet aroma. Avoid berries with dark spots or a dull appearance as they may be overripe or lacking flavor. Freshly picked ones from local markets are often the best choice!
How should I store leftover Strawberry Bread?
You can store your Strawberry Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep it fresh longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before slicing for the best taste.
Can I freeze Strawberry Bread?
Yes, absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled Strawberry Bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it at room temperature or toast individual slices directly for a warm treat!
What should I do if my Strawberry Bread is too dense?
Very good question! A dense texture can result from overmixing the batter. When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined to keep the bread fluffy. Also, ensure that your baking soda is fresh, as old leavening agents can affect the rise.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re baking for someone with allergies, this Strawberry Bread contains eggs, Greek yogurt, and wheat. For egg substitutes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce. If gluten-free options are desired, substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the liquid slightly to maintain texture. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens!
Deliciously Moist Strawberry Bread for Home Bakers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot enough for a perfect bake.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl by combining the white whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and baking soda.
- Combine the wet ingredients in another bowl by whisking together granulated sugar, melted coconut oil, Greek yogurt, eggs, and pure vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients gradually, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the small diced strawberries gently with a spatula.
- Pour the batter into a prepared loaf pan, greased or lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled Strawberry Bread.