Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten your mornings, you’ve come to the right place! This Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is one of those gems that combines two beloved flavors into a sweet treat that’s perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack. The moist, fluffy texture is thanks to pancake mix, making it super easy to whip up even on the busiest days.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether it’s a weekend family gathering or just a simple weekday breakfast, this bread will bring smiles all around. Plus, the strawberry glaze on top adds a special touch that makes each slice feel like a little celebration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With pancake mix as the base, you can have this delicious bread ready in no time!
• Fruity Goodness: Fresh strawberries add vibrant flavor and a burst of color.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this sweet treat—perfect for any occasion!
• Make Ahead: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week; it stays fresh and tasty!
• Customizable: Feel free to play with ingredients for your own unique twist—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to make this delicious 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
• ¾ cup (86g) powdered sugar
• ⅛ teaspoon strawberry extract
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1-2 drops red food coloring (optional)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun twists you can try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter treat, throw in some dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a new flavor profile.
• Use Whole Wheat Pancake Mix: Swap out regular pancake mix for whole wheat to add more fiber.

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 bakes evenly from the moment you put it in.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick baking spray or grease it lightly with oil and dust with flour. This step is crucial—it keeps your lovely bread from sticking!

Step 3: Mash the Banana

In a large bowl, mash the overripe banana with a fork or potato masher until smooth. This not only adds sweetness but also moisture to your bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, water, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and vegetable oil into the mashed banana. Stir everything together until well combined; this creates a lovely base for our batter.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix in the sugar and pancake mix. Stir everything just until combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread, and we want ours light and fluffy!

Step 6: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in your chopped strawberries. Their juicy goodness will infuse each bite with flavor.

Step 7: Bake It Up

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 8: Make the Glaze

While the bread cools, whisk together powdered sugar, remaining vanilla extract, strawberry extract if using, and heavy cream until smooth. Adjust the cream for desired consistency and add food coloring if you want an extra pop of color.

Step 9: Frost and Enjoy

Once cooled completely, drizzle or frost your banana bread with the glaze. It won’t set completely but will create a delightful crust on top—perfect for enjoying with friends and family!

And there you have it! A delightful Strawberry Banana Bread that’s sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Making this delightful Strawberry Banana Bread is a breeze, but a few tips can make your loaf even more scrumptious and perfect!

• Use overripe bananas: The sweeter and softer the banana, the better! Overripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in a richer flavor.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold in the strawberries once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough bread, while gentle folding keeps it light and fluffy.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking your bread around 40 minutes. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s time to take it out!

• Cool before frosting: Allow your bread to cool completely before adding the glaze. This ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt into the bread and helps create a beautiful finish.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add other fruits or nuts like blueberries or walnuts for extra texture and flavor! Just remember to adjust the amounts based on your preference.

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Serving this Strawberry Banana Bread is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your brunch experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberry slices: Add a pop of color and freshness by topping each slice with a few fresh strawberry slices.
• Mint leaves: A sprig of mint not only adds a splash of green but also provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy, crunchy side that balances out the sweetness of the banana bread.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a savory complement that pairs beautifully with this sweet treat, perfect for brunch.
• Fruit salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing side that enhances the fruity notes in your banana bread while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
• Coffee or tea: Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warmth will enhance the flavors of the bread while providing that cozy brunch vibe.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with your homemade Strawberry Banana Bread! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal addition to your breakfast or brunch routine. You can whip it up ahead of time, and it stores beautifully, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready when the craving strikes!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To keep it fresh longer, place parchment paper between slices to prevent them from sticking together.

Freezing

• Wrap the unfrosted bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are a few common questions that might pop up while making this delightful bread.

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

Yes! If you have frozen strawberries, feel free to use them. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding them to the batter.

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

The best way to check if your Strawberry Banana Bread is done is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready!

What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream in the glaze?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy whipping cream with milk or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk. Just adjust the quantity until you achieve your desired consistency.

Can I add nuts or other fruits to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even swap out some strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor twist.

How long does this Strawberry Banana Bread stay fresh?

When stored correctly at room temperature, this Strawberry Banana Bread stays fresh for about 3 days. If you freeze it, it will last up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this delightful Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe! It’s not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about sharing moments with family and friends over delicious food. Enjoy every slice, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations! Happy baking!