Strawberry Lemon Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the refreshing zing of lemon. This easy-to-make recipe brings together juicy strawberries, tangy lemon juice, and zesty lemon rind to create a super moist bread. Ideal for summer afternoons or as a light snack, it’s a perfect addition to any baking repertoire.
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Why Strawberry Lemon Bread is the Ultimate Summer Snack
Strawberry Lemon Bread is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. The bright, citrusy flavor of lemon complements the natural sweetness of strawberries, making each bite a burst of refreshing taste. This quick bread recipe is incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require any complicated ingredients. With its light and fluffy texture, it’s a perfect choice for picnics, barbecues, or a relaxing afternoon with a glass of iced tea or lemonade. Plus, it’s a great way to use up fresh strawberries in season!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this scrumptious Strawberry Lemon Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Fresh Strawberries: These provide natural sweetness and a burst of fruity flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the bread that gives it structure and softness.
- White Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon.
- Baking Powder: Helps the bread rise to perfection.
- Ground Ginger: Adds a touch of warmth and spice that complements the lemon.
- Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- Olive Oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- Milk: Adds richness to the batter.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Offers an intense citrus aroma and flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Brings a tangy and refreshing element to the bread.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you need substitutions for any of the ingredients, here are some great alternatives:
- Olive Oil: You can substitute it with melted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
- Eggs: Use flax eggs if you prefer a vegan option.
- Milk: Almond milk or homemade buttermilk are perfect alternatives for dairy-free options.
- Ginger: If you’re not a fan of ginger, try using cinnamon or nutmeg for a different spiced twist.
- White Sugar: Brown sugar can be used as a substitute to add a richer, molasses-like flavor.
- Strawberries: Feel free to mix in blueberries or raspberries to add more fruit and color to your bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your own Strawberry Lemon Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ginger. Stir until well combined.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the milk, eggs, olive oil, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix everything together until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before removing it. Slice and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Strawberry Lemon Bread
- Check Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
- Add More Lemon Flavor: For an extra burst of lemon, drizzle a lemon glaze over the bread once it has cooled down.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently. Overmixing can result in a dense texture, so just mix until everything is incorporated.
- Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 6 months if stored in a freezer bag.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Strawberry Lemon Bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are a few ideas:
- Toppings: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese for a rich, indulgent treat.
- Beverages: A glass of iced tea, lemonade, or even a chilled green tea complements the light, citrusy flavors of the bread.
- Side Dishes: Pair it with a fresh fruit salad or a light summer salad for a refreshing snack or dessert.
For variations, you can add other berries like raspberries or blueberries to the batter. You can also make it gluten-free by swapping in a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix. Experiment with different fruits and spices to create your unique version!
Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal
Strawberry Lemon Bread isn’t just delicious—it also offers some health benefits. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making this bread a wholesome treat. The lemon adds a refreshing zing while providing a good dose of vitamin C, which supports immunity. This bread is a great way to enjoy seasonal summer fruits while indulging in a sweet treat.
Whether you’re looking for an easy recipe for a family gathering or a simple yet flavorful dessert, this Strawberry Lemon Bread is sure to impress. Its combination of sweetness, tanginess, and moisture makes it a go-to favorite when fresh strawberries are in season!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Strawberry Lemon Bread is a delicious, moist, and tangy treat perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack or a delightful dessert to share with friends and family. The combination of fresh strawberries, zesty lemon juice, and lemon zest creates an irresistible flavor that will surely brighten up any day. With simple ingredients and an easy baking process, it’s a recipe everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re baking for a picnic, a holiday, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Don’t forget to experiment with different fruits or spices to make it uniquely your own! Serve it up with a glass of lemonade or iced tea for the perfect summer pairing. Enjoy this refreshing, easy-to-make strawberry lemon bread, and share it with your loved ones for a fun, flavorful experience.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen strawberries in Strawberry Lemon Bread?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in this recipe. However, make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This will prevent the bread from becoming too soggy. You can even add the juice released by the strawberries to the batter for a more intense fruity flavor, but be sure to adjust the flour quantity accordingly to maintain the bread’s texture.
2. Can I make Strawberry Lemon Bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Most gluten-free flour mixes should work well in this recipe, but check the package for any additional recommendations. Be mindful that the texture might differ slightly, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
3. How do I store leftover Strawberry Lemon Bread?
Store your leftover strawberry lemon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for up to 6 months. When freezing, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag to preserve its freshness.
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Strawberry Lemon Bread: A Perfect Summer Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Lemon Bread is a delicious, moist, and tangy treat made with fresh strawberries and zesty lemon. This easy-to-make quick bread is perfect for summer and pairs wonderfully with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup white sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
- 7 ounces milk
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ginger. Stir until well combined.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the milk, eggs, olive oil, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix everything together until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before removing it. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- If using frozen strawberries, thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- For a gluten-free version, swap the flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Feel free to experiment with other berries or fruits to suit your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 232 kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 29mg
