Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about freshly baked bread, especially when it’s infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of strawberries and bananas. This Strawberry Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the best of both fruits, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The aroma of this bread wafting through your home will make your heart (and stomach) sing!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan with a bit of butter or non-stick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe bananas until they reach a smooth consistency.
- Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas until well combined.
- Mix in the baking soda and a pinch of salt, ensuring everything is fully incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract, sugar, and beaten egg, stirring until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, mixing only until just combined to keep the bread tender.
- Finally, fold in the chopped strawberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter! If strawberries are out of season, feel free to substitute with raspberries or blueberries for a different but equally delightful loaf. Store any leftovers wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container to keep it moist.
Cooking Techniques
Creaming together wet ingredients before adding the dry ingredients is key to achieving a fluffy texture. Be sure not to over-mix when folding in the flour; this will help prevent a dense loaf. Also, using ripe bananas not only enhances sweetness but also adds to the overall moisture of the bread.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture to prevent the batter from becoming too wet.
How do I know when the bread is finished baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet with batter, it needs more time in the oven.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Banana Bread is more than just a treat; it’s a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round. Each slice is a burst of flavor that’s sure to please friends and family alike. Whether you enjoy it on its own or slathered with butter, this bread will quickly become a beloved recipe in your home. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in baking bliss!