Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Easy Strawberry Banana Bread is a delightful twist on traditional banana bread. This Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with fresh strawberries, resulting in a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for brunch or as an afternoon snack. The use of pancake mix makes it super simple and quick to prepare. Plus, the strawberry glaze on top adds an irresistible finishing touch that will have everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Using pancake mix means you can whip this up in no time!
• Versatile Enjoyment: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
• Deliciously Fruity Flavor: The combination of banana and strawberries creates a refreshing taste.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the mashed banana and fresh strawberries, every slice is incredibly moist.
• Eye-Catching Glaze: The strawberry glaze adds not only flavor but also a beautiful presentation.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather all your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (9×5-inch)
• Mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Nonstick baking spray or grease

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Essential for shaping your bread into a perfect loaf for even baking.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your batter, giving your bread a light texture.

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Ingredients

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)

How to Make Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick baking spray or greasing and flouring it.

Step 2: Mash the Banana

In a large mixing bowl, add the overripe banana. Using a fork or potato masher, mash it until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, water, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Mix in Sugar and Pancake Mix

Add in the granulated sugar and pancake mix. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Step 5: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in the chopped strawberries. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Bake for 40-50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Allow it to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, remaining ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and strawberry extract, if using. Add heavy cream gradually until you reach your desired consistency. If you want color, add drops of red food coloring.

Step 8: Frost Your Bread

Once cooled, frost your bread with the glaze. Note that while it won’t set completely, it will develop a nice crust on top.

Now you’re ready to serve up delicious slices of Strawberry Banana Bread! Enjoy this sweet treat fresh on its own or alongside coffee or tea.

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Strawberry banana bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, serving this delicious bread properly can enhance its flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Serve slices topped with fresh strawberries for a refreshing burst of flavor. This adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the bread.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top can make this bread feel extra special. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack.

Lightly Toasted

• Toasting slices of strawberry banana bread brings out its flavors even more. Spread a little butter on warm slices for added richness.

With Yogurt

• Pairing your bread with yogurt creates a balanced meal. Greek yogurt adds protein and can be flavored with honey or vanilla for extra sweetness.

As French Toast

• Use the bread to make French toast! Dip slices in an egg mixture and cook until golden brown for a unique twist on breakfast.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey over the top enhances the sweetness. This simple addition makes each bite irresistible!

How to Perfect Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Perfecting your strawberry banana bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your loaf turns out delicious every time!

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal sweetness.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough bread instead of light and fluffy.

• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. This ensures your bread is baked perfectly.

• Cool Before Serving: Allow your strawberry banana bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and keeps it from falling apart.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to customize your recipe. These extras can add texture and additional flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Serving strawberry banana bread alongside complementary dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side options:

1. Scrambled Eggs: A classic breakfast dish that pairs well with sweet breads. Their savory flavor balances the sweetness nicely.

2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your meal, making it visually appealing and nutritious.

3. Nut Butter: Serve almond or peanut butter on the side for spreading on slices. It adds protein and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the bread.

4. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal provides heartiness and can be flavored with cinnamon or honey, creating a comforting breakfast experience.

5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers contrast in flavor profiles, making each bite interesting when paired with sweet banana bread.

6. Smoothie Bowl: A fruity smoothie bowl complements the flavors while adding freshness and nutrients, making it an ideal side dish for breakfast or brunch.

7. Chia Pudding: This healthy option adds creaminess and works well as an accompaniment to strawberry banana bread, enhancing its texture profile.

8. Coconut Yogurt: For those who enjoy dairy alternatives, coconut yogurt is creamy and slightly sweet, making it an excellent match with this fruity loaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Banana Bread can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using unripe bananas: Ensure you use overripe bananas for the best flavor and texture. Unripe bananas may not provide the sweetness and moisture needed.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than a light, fluffy bread.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use standard measuring cups and spoons for precision. Incorrect measurements can alter your bread’s texture and taste.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow the bread to cool before frosting. Frosting warm bread may cause it to melt off instead of setting nicely.
• Not storing properly: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature. Improper storage can lead to stale bread quickly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the bread is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

• Wrap the unfrosted bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe special?

This recipe stands out due to its unique use of pancake mix, providing an easy and quick method without sacrificing flavor.

Can I customize the Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swap strawberries for another berry like blueberries or raspberries.

How do I know when my Strawberry Banana Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based milk options instead of water.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for brunch or as a sweet snack anytime. Experiment with different fruits or mix-ins to make it your own!