Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings a smile to your face, this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is just the ticket! Imagine the aroma of fresh strawberries and bananas wafting through your kitchen, making it impossible to resist. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our home because it’s not only simple to whip up but also perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy brunch or a sweet afternoon snack with friends. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop!

The best part? This easy Strawberry Banana Bread is made from pancake mix, which means you can spend less time measuring and more time enjoying. It’s moist, bursting with juicy strawberries, and topped with a luscious strawberry glaze that takes it to the next level. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will be on your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With pancake mix as the base, there’s no fussing with complicated measurements—just mix and bake!
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone loves banana bread! The addition of strawberries makes it even more appealing for kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a loaf on the weekend, and enjoy slices throughout the week for breakfast or snacks.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The beautiful pink glaze adds a pop of color and makes this bread perfect for gatherings or brunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients should be fun, and this recipe uses simple, wholesome items you likely already have at home. Let’s take a look at what you need to make this delicious Strawberry Banana Bread:

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

This Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter twist, fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips along with the strawberries.
• Try Other Fruits: Substitute strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat pancake mix instead of regular for a healthier version.

How to Make Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Greasing and flouring your loaf pan ensures that your bread comes out easily after baking. A nonstick baking spray works wonders here!

Step 2: Mash Your Banana

In a large bowl, mash your overripe banana using a fork or potato masher. This step is crucial because it adds moisture and sweetness to your bread. Plus, if the banana is nice and ripe, it’ll blend easily into the batter!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, water, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and vegetable oil to the mashed banana. Stir until everything is well combined. These ingredients help create that lovely moist texture we all crave in banana bread.

Step 4: Mix in Sugar and Dry Ingredients

Next, add granulated sugar and pancake mix into the bowl. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread, so take care here!

Step 5: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in your chopped strawberries. This step adds bursts of fruity flavor throughout the loaf. Don’t be surprised if some strawberries sink—this is perfectly fine!

Step 6: Bake Your Loaf

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and place it in the oven. Bake for about 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make That Delicious Glaze

While your bread cools down completely before frosting, whisk together powdered sugar with ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and strawberry extract (if using), along with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Adjust consistency by adding more cream as needed—this glaze should be pourable but not too runny.

Step 8: Frost Your Bread

Once cooled completely, drizzle that beautiful glaze over your bread! Remember that while frosting won’t set completely like traditional icings do, it will create a lovely crust on top.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Strawberry Banana Bread! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection too!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Making the perfect Strawberry Banana Bread is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your loaf turns out delicious every time.

• Use overripe bananas: Overripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, enhancing the flavor and texture of the bread.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the strawberries keeps the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread around 40 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few crumbs for the perfect bake.

• Let it cool before frosting: Allowing the bread to cool completely helps prevent the glaze from melting away, allowing it to set nicely on top.

• Store properly: To maintain freshness, keep your bread covered at room temperature or freeze it unfrosted. This way, you can enjoy it for weeks!

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

This delightful Strawberry Banana Bread is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual brunch, afternoon tea, or even dessert! Here are some fun serving ideas to elevate your experience:

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberries: Slicing a few extra strawberries to place on top adds a pop of color and enhances that delicious strawberry flavor.
• Mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a refreshing touch that complements the sweetness of the banana bread.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on each slice transforms this dish into an indulgent treat!

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: A creamy yogurt parfait with granola and more fresh fruit complements the flavors while adding a healthy option.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the banana bread and adds refreshing crunch.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing your bread with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a cozy breakfast or snack experience.
• Scrambled eggs: For a heartier brunch, serve with fluffy scrambled eggs. The savory element beautifully contrasts with the sweet banana bread.

Enjoy creating memorable moments with this lovely Strawberry Banana Bread recipe! It’s sure to delight family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand for breakfast or brunch. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to keep it longer, freeze the unfrosted bread.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the bread and place it on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

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

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

How can I make my Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe healthier?

You can reduce sugar by using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, consider substituting half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce for added moisture without extra fat.

What is the best way to enjoy Strawberry Banana Bread?

The best way is to slice it warm and enjoy it as is or spread a bit of nut butter for an extra flavor boost!

Can I customize this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe with other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in blueberries, raspberries, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist on this classic recipe.

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

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Keep an eye on it around the 40-minute mark!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe! It’s such a delightful way to use ripe bananas and fresh strawberries while creating something truly special. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a simple weekday treat, this bread will surely bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how your baking adventure turns out!