This moist and flavorful quick bread features a beautiful swirl of fresh strawberry jam or puree, adding a burst of fruity sweetness to every slice. It’s easy to make and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients:
- For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
- For the Strawberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped (if frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberry Swirl:
- In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly.
- If using cornstarch, whisk it with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the strawberry mixture. Cook for another minute until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the Bread Batter:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk or buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Assemble the Bread:
- Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Spoon the strawberry swirl over the batter, creating a swirl pattern.
- Pour the remaining bread batter over the strawberry swirl.
- Bake the Bread:
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice and serve the Strawberry Swirl Quick Bread.
Tips and Variations:
- Jam Instead of Fresh Strawberries: You can use strawberry jam instead of fresh strawberries for the swirl.
- Other Berries: You can use other berries like raspberries or blueberries for the swirl.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the bread batter for a bright citrus flavor.
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread.
- Make-Ahead: This bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Swirl Quick Bread!Sources and related content