Name: Easy Strawberry Banana Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1½ cups mashed very ripe bananas ((from about 3 medium)); ½ cup unsalted butter ((melted and slightly cooled)); 2 large eggs ((lightly beaten)); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole-wheat flour; ½ cup sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups finely diced strawberries ((stems discarded))

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of Easy Strawberry Banana Bread. This simple yet delicious treat has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on lazy Sunday mornings when I’m trying to use up ripe bananas. I remember the first time I made it; my kids were skeptical at first, but once they took a bite, their eyes lit up with delight. The combination of sweet bananas and juicy strawberries creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack, and I love that I can whip it up in no time at all. Plus, it fills the house with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone into the kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Storage Containers, Measuring Cups

What You’ll Enjoy About This Easy Strawberry Banana Bread

A Perfect Blend

What makes this Easy Strawberry Banana Bread truly special is the harmony of flavors. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with strawberries, creating a moist and tender loaf that’s hard to beat.

Versatile for Any Occasion

This loaf isn’t just for breakfast. It’s versatile enough to serve as a delightful dessert after dinner or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just enjoying a quiet day at home, it fits perfectly in any scenario.

Family-Friendly Fun

Getting the kids involved in baking this bread is a joy. They can help mash the bananas or stir in the strawberries, making it a wonderful bonding experience. Plus, they’ll take pride in eating something they helped create!

Healthier for You

Using whole wheat flour adds a nutritional boost to this recipe, making it a healthier option compared to traditional banana bread. You can even cut back on sugar or use natural sweeteners if you prefer.

Freezing for Later

One of the best parts about this Easy Strawberry Banana Bread is that it freezes beautifully. You can make a double batch, slice it, and freeze it for those busy weeks when you need a quick breakfast option.

What to Buy for Easy Strawberry Banana Bread

When it comes to baking this Easy Strawberry Banana Bread, the quality of your ingredients can truly make a difference. Fresh, ripe strawberries and bananas are key players in this recipe, bringing natural sweetness and moisture that elevate the bread. Using a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour not only adds texture but also enhances the flavor profile.

1½ cups mashed very ripe bananas (from about 3 medium)
½ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole-wheat flour
½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups finely diced strawberries (stems discarded)

Directions for Easy Strawberry Banana Bread

Making Easy Strawberry Banana Bread is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is an added bonus. Let’s get started!

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray. Make sure to cover the bottom and sides well to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed bananas, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until fully combined. The mixture should be somewhat thick and creamy.
Next, add the all-purpose and whole-wheat flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to the banana mixture. Stir until just combined; it’s fine if there are a few lumps. Overmixing can make the bread tough.
Gently fold in the finely diced strawberries. Be careful not to crush them too much; you want to maintain some texture in the bread.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula so it’s even. This helps ensure even baking.
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. The bread is done when it’s golden brown and a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This allows it to firm up slightly, making it easier to remove.
Carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack completely. This step is crucial for the best texture.
Once cooled, slice the bread and serve. It’s delicious on its own or with a smear of nut butter or cream cheese.

Things Worth Knowing

Always use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture in your bread.
Mix the dry ingredients separately before adding to the wet ingredients to ensure even distribution.
Don’t overmix the batter; it should be mixed just until combined to keep the bread fluffy.
For added flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of chocolate chips.

Change It Up

There are countless ways to customize your Easy Strawberry Banana Bread. Here are some suggestions to add your personal touch!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 5 days.
Freezing: Slice and freeze the bread in a zip-top storage bag for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
Pairing: Serve with a dollop of yogurt or a smear of nut butter for added protein.
Flavor Variations: Toss in some chopped nuts for a crunchy texture or mix in some dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the flours with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.

Perfect Matches for Easy Strawberry Banana Bread

This Easy Strawberry Banana Bread is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some great options:

Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or apple slices to add a refreshing touch.
Coffee or Tea: A cup of your favorite brew complements the sweet flavors perfectly.
Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and is a great way to boost protein.
Nut Butter: A spread of almond or peanut butter provides a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
Seasonal Occasions: This bread is perfect for brunch gatherings, afternoon tea, or a cozy family breakfast.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture before folding them into the batter. This will help maintain the desired texture of the bread without making it too soggy.

Once the bread has cooled completely, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for about five days. For longer storage, consider slicing it and freezing it in a zip-top bag for up to six months. Just thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before enjoying!

Absolutely! Adding nuts is a great way to introduce a crunchy texture to your Easy Strawberry Banana Bread. Chopped walnuts or pecans work well. Just fold them in along with the strawberries to ensure even distribution throughout the loaf. It’s a delicious twist!

To make this bread vegan, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce and replace the butter with melted coconut oil. Ensure that your sugar is vegan as well. These tweaks will allow you to enjoy a tasty vegan version of your Easy Strawberry Banana Bread.

Conclusion

The Easy Strawberry Banana Bread is a delightful mix of flavors that will become a new favorite in your home. With its moist texture and sweet taste, it’s perfect for any time of day. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll understand why so many people love it. Happy baking!