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. Simmer 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 stir in vanilla.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Loaf

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

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs).

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.

Enjoy this delicious Strawberry Swirl Loaf! It’s perfect anytime!