Strawberry Swirl Loaf

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Swirl

1. Blend strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Cook the puree in a saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

1. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
2. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Loaf

1. Pour half the batter into the pan, spread evenly.
2. Spoon half the strawberry puree over the batter and swirl gently with a knife or skewer.
3. Pour remaining batter on top, spread evenly. Add remaining puree and swirl.

Step 5: Bake & Cool

1. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Serve!

1. Slice and serve at room temperature. Enjoy plain, or with whipped cream or butter!

Cooking Notes

• Strawberries: Fresh are best, but thawed frozen strawberries work too (drain well).
• Swirling: Be gentle to create a marbled effect without overmixing.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Variations

Lemon Strawberry Swirl Loaf

• Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the batter.

Cream Cheese Strawberry Swirl Loaf

• Add a cream cheese layer: Mix 4 oz cream cheese, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 egg. Spread over the first batter layer before adding strawberry puree.

Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Loaf

• Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Other Berries?

Yes! Raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries all work well. The process remains the same.

How Do I Know When It’s Done?

Insert a toothpick. If it comes out clean (or with a few moist crumbs), it’s done. If not, bake for another 5 minutes and check again.

Can I Freeze It?

Yes! Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Swirl Loaf!