Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is just what you need! There’s something so comforting about the warm smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with juicy strawberries, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch for friends or simply treating yourself during a busy weeknight, this easy strawberry banana bread will quickly become a beloved staple in your home.

The best part? It uses pancake mix, making it super simple to whip up! You’ll never look at banana bread the same way again once you try this scrumptious version topped with a sweet strawberry glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With pancake mix as the base, this bread comes together in no time, perfect for those busy mornings.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet combination of strawberries and bananas in every bite.
• Make-ahead goodness: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Just store it properly!
• Deliciously versatile: Feel free to customize with different fruits or toppings to suit your taste!
• Brunch-worthy: Bring it along to gatherings; everyone will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what you need to make this delicious treat!

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)

Variations

The flexibility of this recipe makes it even more fun! Feel free to get creative and switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix in other fruits: Substitute with blueberries or raspberries if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Use different extracts: Try almond or lemon extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor twist.
• Make it chocolatey: Add mini chocolate chips for an indulgent treat that everyone will love!

How to Make Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your bread will bake evenly and rise beautifully. While it’s heating up, prep your loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick baking spray or greasing it with butter and flour. A well-prepared pan is key to getting that perfect loaf out in one piece!

Step 2: Mash the Banana

In a large bowl, add your overripe banana. Use a fork or potato masher to mash it until smooth. This step is important because mashed banana will help keep your bread moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Now, add the eggs, water, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and vegetable oil into the bowl with your mashed banana. Give everything a good stir until combined. These ingredients add richness and moisture to your batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next up, sprinkle in the granulated sugar and pancake mix. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of fluffy perfection.

Step 5: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in the chopped strawberries so they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This adds bursts of fruity goodness in every slice!

Step 6: Bake Away!

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it. Allowing it to cool for about 15-20 minutes before removing from the pan helps avoid any crumbling.

Step 7: Whip Up That Glaze

While your bread cools, let’s make that shiny strawberry glaze! In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, strawberry extract if you’re using it, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Adjust with more cream until you reach your desired consistency—smooth but not too runny.

Step 8: Frost Your Bread

Once your loaf has cooled completely, drizzle or spread that delicious glaze on top. It won’t set completely but will form a lovely crust on the outside while staying gooey inside.

And there you have it—a fabulous Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe that’s sure to become a favorite! Enjoy each slice as a delightful treat any time of day!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Making this delightful Strawberry Banana Bread is a joy, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure your loaf turns out perfectly every time!

• Use really ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Overripe bananas add moisture and natural sweetness, making your banana bread irresistibly delicious.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the ingredients helps to keep the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so be careful not to stir too vigorously once you combine the wet and dry ingredients.

• Cool before frosting: Allowing the bread to cool completely before adding the glaze prevents it from melting off. This way, you get that lovely shiny finish without losing any of that delicious frosting!

• Substitute strawberries with other fruits: If you want to switch things up, feel free to use other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor and complements the banana beautifully.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread at 40 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven!

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

This Strawberry Banana Bread is perfect for brunch gatherings or as a sweet afternoon snack. You can present it beautifully on a rustic wooden board or slice it into individual portions for easy serving.

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberries: A few whole or sliced strawberries on top of each slice add color and freshness.
• Mint leaves: A sprig of mint not only looks beautiful but also adds a refreshing aroma when served.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bread and adds some protein for a more filling meal.
• Fruit salad: A bowl of mixed fruit brings brightness to your plate and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of banana and strawberry.
• Coffee or tea: Serve alongside your favorite morning beverage for a comforting breakfast experience that will warm both heart and soul.
• Scrambled eggs: For a heartier brunch option, fluffy scrambled eggs complement the sweetness of the bread with their savory richness.

Enjoy this wonderful Strawberry Banana Bread at your next gathering or cozy morning at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Banana Bread is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious breakfast or snack ready to go. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Store on the counter for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted bread.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your bread warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the bread and place it on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about making this delicious recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I use frozen strawberries in the Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! Thaw and chop them before adding them to the batter. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid.

What makes this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe special?

This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with juicy strawberries, creating a moist and flavorful bread that’s perfect for brunch or snacking!

How can I make this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe healthier?

You can substitute some of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce or use whole wheat pancake mix for added fiber.

Can I add nuts to the Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a fantastic addition. Just fold them into the batter along with the strawberries.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Strawberry Banana Bread! It’s such a wonderful way to start your day or share with friends at brunch. The combination of strawberries and bananas creates a tender, flavorful loaf that will surely become a favorite. Enjoy every slice, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or toppings. Happy baking!