Ah, Strawberry Banana Bread! This delightful recipe brings me back to those cozy Saturday mornings when the house would fill with the sweet, inviting scent of baked goods. Whenever I had overripe bananas, I’d always think, “Let’s jazz this up!” by tossing in some bright, juicy strawberries. It’s like a hug in loaf form, perfect for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack.
I remember the first time I made it; I was hosting friends, and they couldn’t believe how moist and flavorful it turned out. In fact, they probably ate half the loaf in one sitting! The combination of bananas and strawberries creates a delightful balance of flavor and texture that’s simply irresistible. So let’s get baking!
What’s in Strawberry Banana Bread?
Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! They add natural sweetness and moisture to the bread. The riper the better—those little brown spots mean maximum flavor.
Fresh Strawberries: These bright pops of flavor and color give the bread a refreshing twist. You can use fresh strawberries from your local market; just make sure they’re sweet and juicy for the best results!
All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of our bread. While you can use whole wheat flour for extra fiber, I love the lightness all-purpose flour offers in this recipe.
Granulated Sugar: A little sweetness to balance the fruit’s natural sugar. Feel free to adjust the amount if you prefer your bread less sweet!
Eggs: They help bind everything together and give the bread a lovely structure. No substitutions here; let’s go with the real deal.
Butter: I always prefer unsalted butter to control the saltiness. It adds richness and moisture, making each slice melt in your mouth.
Baking Soda: This is our leavening agent, providing that perfect rise and fluffy texture. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results!
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
Is Strawberry Banana Bread Good for You?
While this bread is certainly a treat, there are some health benefits worth noting!
Bananas: They are full of potassium and fiber, making them great for digestion and heart health. Bananas can also help keep you feeling full longer.
Strawberries: These berries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting overall health and immune function. They also add a welcome burst of hydration to the dish!
Keep in mind that the sugar and butter add calories, so enjoy your slice in moderation, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your sugar intake.
Ingredients
– 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1 large egg (beaten)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped)
**Servings:** This recipe yields about 8 slices.
How to Make Strawberry Banana Bread?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan (9×5 inches works perfectly).
2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth (no lumps allowed!).
3. Stir in the melted butter into the banana mash until well combined.
4. Add in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture, stirring just until combined. Don’t overmix!
7. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Sweet Suggestions for Serving
While the bread is delicious on its own, you could serve it warm with a dollop of butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey. It’s lovely enjoyed with a hot cup of tea or coffee. If you really want to inspire some oohs and aahs, serve it with a side of fresh strawberries for a fruit-filled delight!
I truly hope you give this Strawberry Banana Bread a try. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your taste buds will thank you! When you do, snap a pic, and be sure to share your experiences. Happy baking!
