Strawberry Bread Recipe

What Is Strawberry Bread?

Strawberry bread is a moist, sweet quick bread made with fresh or frozen strawberries mixed into a soft, cake-like batter. It’s similar in texture to banana or zucchini bread but gets its flavor and natural sweetness from juicy strawberries. Often made without yeast, strawberry bread relies on baking soda or baking powder for leavening, making it easy and fast to prepare—no rising time required.

This delicious loaf is typically flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, or lemon zest to complement the strawberries, and sometimes includes mix-ins like nuts or white chocolate chips. It can be served plain, with a glaze, or even topped with a cream cheese spread for extra richness.

Strawberry bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or even dessert. Its fruity, lightly tangy flavor makes it a refreshing change from traditional quick breads, especially during strawberry season.

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Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Bread

Strawberry bread is the kind of treat that feels both comforting and refreshing—perfect for any time of day. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Fresh and Fruity Flavor: Bursting with juicy strawberries, every bite is naturally sweet and slightly tangy, making it taste like spring and summer in loaf form.
• Soft and Moist Texture: Thanks to the moisture from the berries and the rich batter, this bread stays tender for days—no dry slices here.
• Quick and Easy: No yeast, no kneading, and minimal prep. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! It’s a great recipe for beginner bakers or anyone short on time.
• Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast with a cup of coffee, as a sweet afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert. Add a glaze or leave it plain—either way, it’s delicious.
• Customizable: Make it your own with lemon zest, a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped nuts, or even chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.

This strawberry bread brings the nostalgia of homemade baked goods with a bright, modern flavor. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries: What’s Best?

Both fresh and frozen strawberries can be used in strawberry bread, but each has its pros and cons depending on what you’re looking for in flavor, texture, and convenience.

Fresh Strawberries

Pros:

• Bright, natural flavor that shines in baked goods.
• Better texture—less watery—so the bread stays firm and moist without being soggy.
• Ideal if strawberries are in season and ripe.

Cons:

• Short shelf life; must be used quickly.
• Can be inconsistent in sweetness depending on the batch.

Frozen Strawberries

Pros:

• Convenient—available year-round and pre-washed.
• Often picked at peak ripeness and flash-frozen, preserving flavor.

Cons:

• Can release more liquid during baking, which may lead to soggier bread.
• Must be chopped while still slightly frozen to avoid mushiness.
• May require draining or patting dry to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

Verdict:

Fresh strawberries are best for optimal texture and flavor, especially when in season. Frozen strawberries are a great substitute in a pinch—just prep them properly by thawing slightly and draining excess moisture before mixing.

Would you like tips on prepping frozen berries for baking or adjusting moisture in your batter?

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Fresh Strawberries (1½ cups, chopped) – The star of the show! Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. If using frozen, thaw slightly and drain well.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – The base of the bread, giving it structure and softness.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ to 1 cup) – Adds sweetness. Adjust based on how sweet your berries are.
• Baking Powder (2 teaspoons) – Helps the bread rise and stay light.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances all the other flavors.
• Cinnamon (optional, ½ teaspoon) – Adds a warm, cozy touch that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
• Eggs (2 large) – Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
• Milk (½ cup) – Keeps the bread moist. You can use dairy or a non-dairy alternative.
• Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter (½ cup) – Provides fat for tenderness and flavor.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Rounds out the sweetness with a classic, comforting aroma.
• Lemon Zest (optional, 1 teaspoon) – Brightens the flavor and complements the strawberries perfectly.

Step-by-Step Strawberry Bread Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Yields: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)

1. Preheat the Oven & Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Strawberries

Gently wash and dice 1½ cups of fresh strawberries. Pat them dry with paper towels. If your berries are especially juicy, you can toss them in a teaspoon of flour to help prevent sinking.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1–2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt

4. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk until smooth:

• 2 large eggs
• ¾ to 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, but recommended)

5. Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

6. Fold in the Strawberries

Gently fold in the chopped strawberries using a spatula. The batter will be thick.

7. Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
Bake at 350°F for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes.

8. Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Optional Glaze or Toppings

1. Simple Vanilla Glaze

A sweet, glossy finish that pairs perfectly with strawberry flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (or lemon juice for a zesty twist)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions: Whisk together until smooth and drizzle over completely cooled bread. Let set for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

2. Lemon Glaze

Bright and tangy, this balances the sweetness of the bread beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions: Mix until smooth and pour over the bread once cooled. Garnish with a little extra zest if desired.

3. Cream Cheese Icing

For a richer, more indulgent topping.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions: Beat until smooth and creamy. Spread or pipe over the bread once cooled.

4. Topping Ideas

• Sliced fresh strawberries or a few freeze-dried strawberry crumbles
• Toasted chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) for crunch
• A light sprinkle of turbinado sugar before baking for a crisp top

Make It Your Way: Variations & Add-Ins

1. Strawberry Banana Bread

Replace half of the strawberries with 1 mashed ripe banana. Adds moisture and a subtle banana flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries.

2. Strawberry Lemon Bread

Add 1–2 tablespoons of lemon juice and extra lemon zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy kick. Top with a lemon glaze for extra zing.

3. Strawberry Chocolate Chip Bread

Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips with the strawberries. Dark or white chocolate both work well and add richness.

4. Strawberry Nut Bread

Add ½ cup of chopped toasted nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds for crunch and a more hearty texture.

5. Strawberry Cream Cheese Swirl

Dollop spoonfuls of sweetened cream cheese (beat 4 oz cream cheese with 2 tbsp sugar) into the batter and swirl gently before baking.

6. Gluten-Free Version

Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

7. Dairy-Free Option

Swap milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.

8. Mixed Berry Bread

Use a combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful and flavorful twist.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature (Short-Term)

• Let the bread cool completely before storing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
• Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For best texture, avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the bread.

Refrigerator (Extended Freshness)

• If your kitchen is warm or humid, refrigerate to extend freshness.
• Wrap well or store in a sealed container to prevent drying.
• Will stay fresh for up to 5–6 days in the fridge.

Freezing Tips

To Freeze the Whole Loaf

• Cool completely.
• Wrap in two layers—first with plastic wrap, then foil or a freezer-safe bag.
• Label and freeze for up to 3 months.

To Freeze Slices

• Slice the bread and place parchment paper between slices.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Great for grabbing individual portions!

To Thaw

• Let thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
• For a warm slice, microwave for 15–20 seconds or lightly toast.

Serving Suggestions

1. Simple & Sweet

• Enjoy a slice on its own—warm or at room temperature.
• Add a pat of butter or a light drizzle of honey for extra richness.

2. With a Spread

• Top with cream cheese, whipped mascarpone, or Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast.
• Try strawberry jam or lemon curd for extra fruit-forward flavor.

3. For Breakfast or Brunch

• Serve with a side of scrambled eggs or yogurt and granola for a balanced meal.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or a strawberry smoothie for a coordinated breakfast spread.

4. As a Dessert

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce or serve alongside fresh berries.

5. For Entertaining

• Cut into mini slices or cubes for a brunch buffet or tea party tray.
• Serve warm with optional glaze or toppings for a rustic dessert.

Strawberry Bread FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture. You may also want to chop them while still slightly frozen to prevent them from turning mushy.

2. How do I prevent the strawberries from sinking to the bottom?

To prevent strawberries from sinking, toss them in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps distribute the fruit evenly throughout the bread as it bakes.

3. Can I make strawberry bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

4. Can I make strawberry bread dairy-free?

Yes, simply swap the milk for almond milk, oat milk, or any other dairy-free milk. You can also use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute in place of the regular butter.

5. How do I keep my strawberry bread moist?

Strawberry bread is naturally moist due to the fruit, but to keep it fresh:

• Don’t overmix the batter.
• Store it properly (airtight container at room temperature or fridge for longer storage).
• If freezing, wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.

6. Can I add other fruits or mix-ins?

Definitely! You can add chopped bananas, blueberries, or chocolate chips for a fun variation. Just be sure to adjust the wet-to-dry ingredient balance if adding extra fruit.

7. Can I make strawberry bread in advance?

Yes, strawberry bread keeps well for several days. It’s even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

8. How do I store strawberry bread?

For up to 2 days, store strawberry bread in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer freshness, store it in the fridge for up to 5–6 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

9. Can I use a loaf pan of a different size?

If you use a smaller or larger pan, you may need to adjust the baking time. A smaller pan will require a shorter baking time, while a larger pan will need more time. Always check with a toothpick in the center to ensure it’s done.

10. How can I make strawberry bread even sweeter?

You can add a glaze or frosting, like a vanilla glaze, cream cheese icing, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Adjust the sugar level in the batter if you prefer a sweeter loaf.

Conclusion: The Best Strawberry Bread You’ll Ever Bake

This strawberry bread is the perfect combination of sweet, fruity, and moist, making it a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen strawberries, customizing it with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, or adding a simple glaze, this bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s an easy, versatile recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.

With its tender texture, irresistible strawberry flavor, and endless customization options, this strawberry bread truly stands out as a delightful treat that everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple to make, and the results are always satisfying.

So, next time you’re craving something fruity and homemade, give this strawberry bread recipe a try you might just find it’s the best one you’ve ever baked!