Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas and fresh strawberries, then this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is just for you! This easy-to-make bread is perfect for brunch with friends or as a cozy breakfast during the week. It’s a wonderful way to use those overripe bananas sitting on your counter, and who doesn’t love the surprise of juicy strawberries in every bite?

This recipe has a special place in my heart because it brings back memories of sunny mornings spent with family, enjoying warm slices of banana bread. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it ideal for busy days or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Using pancake mix makes this recipe a breeze. You’ll have delicious banana bread ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will love this sweet treat. It’s a great way to sneak in some fruit!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a loaf ahead of time, and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors only get better as it sits!
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. This bread is so versatile that it fits any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This Strawberry Banana Bread uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Batter

• 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

One of the best things about this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Try Other Fruits: Mix in blueberries or raspberries if you want to switch up the flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the taste.
• Make It Healthier: Substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.

How to Make Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick baking spray or grease and flour it. This helps prevent sticking and makes removing the bread much easier later on.

Step 3: Mash the Banana

In a large bowl, add your overripe banana and mash it using a fork or potato masher until smooth. Mashing well allows all those delicious banana flavors to blend beautifully into the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the eggs, water, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. These wet ingredients help create a moist texture in your finished bread.

Step 5: Mix in Sugar and Pancake Mix

Now it’s time to add the sugar and pancake mix into your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of light and fluffy.

Step 6: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in those lovely chopped strawberries. This is where you get bursts of fruity goodness that make each slice special!

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for about 40-50 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Let your bread cool for about 15-20 minutes before removing it from the pan. Once cooled completely, whisk together powdered sugar, remaining vanilla extract, strawberry extract if using, and heavy cream for your glaze. Drizzle it on top of your bread for an irresistible finishing touch!

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

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Baking can be a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your strawberry banana bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Overripe bananas are also easier to mash, creating a smoother batter.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the ingredients helps keep your bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we want to avoid!

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your bread at the 40-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few crumbs for perfect doneness.

• Cool before frosting: Allowing the bread to cool completely before frosting prevents the glaze from melting away. This way, you’ll achieve that beautiful finish on top!

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips along with strawberries for added texture and flavor! It’s a fun way to customize your banana bread.

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Serving this delightful strawberry banana bread is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your brunch experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberries: Top each slice with thinly sliced strawberries for a fresh touch that enhances both flavor and aesthetics.
• Mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma, making each slice visually appealing.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top gives it an elegant finish that’s perfect for brunch gatherings.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the bread beautifully.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad filled with seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances out the richness of the banana bread.
• Scrambled eggs: Soft, fluffy scrambled eggs serve as a savory counterpart, creating a well-rounded breakfast plate.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing your strawberry banana bread with a warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the overall experience, making it cozy and enjoyable.

Now that you’re equipped with these serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your friends and family at any gathering! Enjoy every bite of your homemade strawberry banana bread!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, making it a fantastic addition to your brunches or quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep it fresher longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a container.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the bread cool completely first.
• Wrap the unfrosted loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the container with the date!

Reheating

• When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen bread, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
• For a quick reheat, slice the bread and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen strawberries, gently fold them into the batter while still frozen. Just be aware that they may make the batter slightly wetter.

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

You can check if your Strawberry Banana Bread is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I substitute pancake mix with regular flour in this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute pancake mix with all-purpose flour. However, you’ll need to adjust the recipe slightly by adding baking powder and possibly more liquid to achieve the desired texture.

What should I serve with this Strawberry Banana Bread?

This delightful bread pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It’s perfect as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Strawberry Banana Bread! It’s not only a delightful blend of flavors but also an easy recipe that brings a bit of sweetness to your day. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, I’m sure you’ll find joy in each slice. Happy baking!