If you only make one quick bread this season, let it be Strawberry Banana Bread. Imagine the classic comfort of banana bread, now dotted with juicy pockets of ripe strawberries, bringing a burst of color and a whole new level of flavor. This is a recipe that always wins hearts at brunch, vanishes from lunchboxes, and makes the loveliest afternoon treat alongside a cup of coffee or tea. With its moist, tender crumb and naturally sweet, fruity aroma, Strawberry Banana Bread is a delightful twist that elevates a beloved classic into something truly special!

Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You probably have most of these essentials in your pantry and fridge already. Each ingredient plays a role in building the perfect loaf by bringing moisture, flavor, and the irresistible texture we crave in Strawberry Banana Bread.

Bananas (2 ripe, mashed): The riper, the better—they add sweetness and keep every bite ultra-moist.
Fresh Strawberries (1 cup, chopped): Sweet and juicy, strawberries create gorgeous bursts of flavor and color. Toss in a little flour before folding to prevent sinking.
Large Eggs (2): Help the loaf set and give it structure without dryness.
Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens without overpowering the fruitiness.
Brown Sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a hint of molasses richness and extra moisture.
Vegetable Oil (1/2 cup): Ensures a soft, tender crumb and keeps it moist for days.
Plain Yogurt or Sour Cream (1/4 cup): The secret to a slight tang and dreamy texture.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the fruit, making everything taste warm and inviting.
All-Purpose Flour (1 3/4 cups): Provides the structure while letting the fruit shine.
Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Works its leavening magic for a nicely domed loaf.
Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Partners with baking soda for just the right lift.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
Cinnamon, optional (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a cozy touch that sneaks up in every slice.

How to Make Strawberry Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This is the first building block to set yourself up for a loaf that releases with ease and has those lovely golden edges.

Step 2: Mash Bananas and Combine Wet Ingredients

Grab your biggest mixing bowl and whisk together the mashed ripe bananas, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, yogurt or sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and well-blended. This is where much of Strawberry Banana Bread’s irresistible moisture and flavor begins!

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients Separately

In a different bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and optional cinnamon. Combining these first keeps your leaveners and spices evenly distributed, avoiding any unpleasant surprises in individual bites.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, stirring gently just until the flour disappears. Over-mixing can make your loaf tough, so keep it light—lumps are okay! At this point, the batter should be thick and fragrant with hints of fruit and vanilla.

Step 5: Gently Fold in Strawberries

Before adding, toss the chopped strawberries in a tablespoon of flour. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom. Gently fold them into your batter, distributing them evenly for bursts of strawberry in every slice.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the finished batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Your kitchen will fill with the sweet aroma of Strawberry Banana Bread! To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Slice and marvel at the pockets of strawberry and speckles of banana throughout the loaf.

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Bread

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar transforms each slice into a bakery treat, or try a drizzle of vanilla glaze for an extra sweet finish. If you’re feeling fancy, add a dollop of whipped cream and sliced fresh strawberries on top when serving—it’s stunning and delicious!

Side Dishes

Strawberry Banana Bread pairs beautifully with a bowl of tangy Greek yogurt, a bright fruit salad, or even lightly scrambled eggs for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. For an afternoon snack, a mug of coffee or chilled almond milk makes the perfect companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bread into thick slices and grill briefly for crisp edges, then serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Or, cut into cubes and layer with yogurt and berries for gorgeous breakfast parfaits. Wrap slices individually for fun picnic snacks that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Strawberry Banana Bread wonderfully moist, store it tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to two days. Refrigerate in an airtight container for longer freshness, up to a week—the flavors actually deepen with time!

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully! Once fully cooled, wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours, and it will taste almost as good as the day you baked it.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked taste, reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly in the oven. The warmth revives the bread’s softness and brings out the flavors of banana and strawberry all over again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Just thaw the strawberries first, drain any extra liquid, then chop and toss with a little flour before folding into your batter. Frozen berries work, but fresh strawberries provide a slightly better texture and color.

What can I substitute for yogurt or sour cream?

If you don’t have yogurt or sour cream, you can try buttermilk, plain kefir, or even applesauce in a pinch. The purpose is to add moisture and a slight tang, so choose what you have available.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread is ready when the top is deep golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If you see wet batter, give it a few more minutes and check again.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Check your baking powder and baking soda are gluten-free too, and keep an eye on texture, as gluten-free versions can be more delicate.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double up if you want more Strawberry Banana Bread. Use two loaf pans and rotate them halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Perfect for sharing or freezing one for later!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something comforting, vibrant, and downright irresistible, don’t wait another day to bake a loaf of Strawberry Banana Bread. Every bite is a nostalgic hug with a burst of berry brightness. Try it soon and discover why this isn’t just banana bread—it’s a new tradition in the making!

Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe