Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with morning coffee or afternoon tea, this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe is just what you need! It’s a warm, comforting loaf that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with juicy strawberries. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, and I’m sure it will be in yours too. Whether you’re hosting brunch for friends or just want something sweet to enjoy during your busy week, this quick bread is the answer.

Not only is it easy to whip together, but it also fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma as it bakes. Plus, who can resist that lovely strawberry glaze on top? Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With pancake mix as the base, this recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet combination of strawberries and bananas — it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Just store it properly to keep it fresh!
• Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; this bread fits any occasion beautifully.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of bananas and strawberries creates a moist and flavorful loaf that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Strawberry Banana Bread. You probably already have many of these staples in your pantry!

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! Here are some fun ways to customize it:

• Add Nuts: Toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Mix Up the Fruit: Substitute blueberries or raspberries for strawberries if you prefer another berry flavor.
• Use Whole Wheat Pancake Mix: For a healthier twist, try using whole wheat pancake mix instead of regular.
• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.

How to Make Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial because a properly heated oven ensures even baking. While it’s warming up, you can prepare your loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick baking spray or greasing and flouring it.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large bowl, add your overripe banana and mash it well using a fork or potato masher. This releases its natural sweetness and ensures it’s evenly distributed throughout your bread.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the eggs, water, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture forms the moist base of our bread.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Pancake Mix

Now it’s time to incorporate the sugar and pancake mix into your mixture. Stir gently until just combined; we don’t want to overmix here as that could result in a dense loaf.

Step 5: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in the chopped strawberries. Their vibrant color adds not just beauty but also bursts of flavor throughout each slice! Once mixed in, pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when done. Let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Create Your Glaze

To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar with ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, strawberry extract if using, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Adjust with more cream for desired consistency. If you like some color, add one drop of red food coloring.

Step 8: Frost and Serve!

Once your bread has completely cooled, drizzle on that luscious glaze! It will create a delightful crust on the outside while keeping things soft inside. Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Banana Bread fresh or store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days — but trust me; it won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Making this Strawberry Banana Bread is fun, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure your loaf comes out perfectly every time!

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Overripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, which helps create a tender loaf.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the strawberries and mixing just until combined keeps your bread fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Let it cool before frosting: Cooling the bread completely before adding the glaze prevents it from melting away. This way, you’ll have a lovely layer of frosting that stays put.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to tweak the sugar levels based on how sweet your strawberries are or your personal preference. You might find you like it just a tad sweeter or less so!

• Experiment with mix-ins: Want to make it even more interesting? Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor! Just keep in mind that these will change the final taste profile.

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe

Serving up this delightful Strawberry Banana Bread can turn any breakfast or brunch into a special occasion. With its beautiful color and delicious flavor, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberries: A few sliced strawberries on top not only look appealing but also enhance the fruity flavor of the bread.
• Mint leaves: Adding fresh mint leaves as a garnish adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the sweetness of the bread.
• A dusting of powdered sugar: For an elegant touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top just before serving—it’s an easy way to elevate presentation!

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the banana bread. You could even mix in some honey or vanilla for extra flavor!
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits will balance the richness of the bread and provide a burst of color on your plate.
• Scrambled eggs: For a hearty breakfast option, serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs. They make for a satisfying combination of sweet and savory flavors.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements this recipe beautifully. The warmth enhances all those lovely fruity notes while providing a cozy atmosphere.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Strawberry Banana Bread will surely impress everyone at the table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Strawberry Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve its deliciousness:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the banana bread to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps out air and prevents freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices of banana bread on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10-15 minutes.
• For a quicker option, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid from the frozen strawberries before folding them into the batter.

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

The banana bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Keep an eye on it as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven.

What makes this Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe different?

This recipe uses pancake mix, making it incredibly quick and easy while still being packed with flavor from fresh strawberries and bananas.

Can I add nuts to my Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch. Just fold them in gently with the strawberries.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Strawberry Banana Bread! It’s not just a treat; it’s a wonderful way to bring together family and friends over brunch or snack time. The sweet combination of ripe bananas and fresh strawberries makes every slice special. Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your creation with others—everyone deserves a taste of this delightful bread!