Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of baking, where simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary! Today, I’m excited to share a scrumptious recipe for Strawberry Banana Bread. This charming loaf offers a beautiful balance of sweet, ripe bananas and juicy strawberries, all enveloped in a warm, soft crumb. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household! Let’s dive into the sweet details, so you can enjoy a slice (or two) of this delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all the ingredients are beautifully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and all-purpose flour.
- Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—lumps are okay!
- Now, fold in the chopped strawberries with a gentle touch, letting those fruity bits get cozy in the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for a nice, even finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the aroma of bananas and strawberries fills your kitchen.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The wait will be so worth it!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas as they provide natural sweetness and moisture. You can also add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch! If you prefer a more pronounced strawberry flavor, feel free to toss in an extra half cup of strawberries.
Cooking Techniques
This Strawberry Banana Bread is a great recipe to practice mixing and folding techniques. Mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining helps ensure an even batter, while folding in the strawberries gently preserves their shape and integrity. Baking at the right temperature is key to achieving that lovely golden crust while keeping the inside soft and moist.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before chopping to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
How should I store the leftover bread? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also slice and freeze portions for up to 3 months!
Conclusion
This Strawberry Banana Bread is not only easy to make, but it also captures the essence of summer with its fresh fruit flavors. Whether you’re enjoying a warm slice straight from the oven or indulging in a piece later, each bite is a wonderful reminder of home and comfort. So gather your ingredients and let’s get baking—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your taste buds will thank you!