Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe warm aroma of baking bread has a magical way of transforming even the cloudiest of days. Last weekend, with overripe bananas begging for attention in my fruit bowl, I decided to whip up a batch of Easy Strawberry Banana Bread using pancake mix. This delightful recipe merges the sweetness of ripe bananas with the juicy brightness of strawberries, resulting in a perfectly moist loaf ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Not only is this quick bread a breeze to prepare, but it also cuts down on prep time, leaving you with more moments to savor. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a satisfying treat that’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Curious how to make it? Let’s dive in! Why is Strawberry Banana Bread a Must-Try? Simplicity is key here! With just a handful of ingredients and pancake mix as your secret weapon, this recipe offers a quick and easy baking experience. Moist and Flavorful, every slice bursts with the sweetness of bananas and the freshness of strawberries, making it a perfect breakfast option. Versatile too—feel free to swap out strawberries for blueberries or throw in some nuts for added crunch. And best of all, time-saving! In less than an hour, you can have a warm loaf ready to enjoy. If you’re in the mood for something equally delicious, check out my recipe for Caramelized Banana Cheesecake or indulge in some Moist Strawberry Shortcake. Strawberry Banana Bread Ingredients For the Batter • Overripe Banana – Adds natural sweetness and moisture. Ensure the banana is well-mashed for maximum flavor. • Large Eggs (2) – Provides structure and stability to the bread. Room temperature eggs blend better, resulting in a smoother batter. • Water (¼ cup) – Adds hydration to the batter. Can substitute with milk for added richness and creaminess. • Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances flavor profile beautifully. Use high-quality pure vanilla for the best taste results. • Vegetable Oil (½ cup) – Keeps the bread moist and tender. Can be substituted with melted coconut oil or applesauce for a lighter loaf. • Granulated Sugar (⅓ cup) – Sweetens the bread perfectly. Reduce or replace with honey for a natural sweetness. • Krusteaz Pancake Mix (2 cups) – Main ingredient providing structure and ease. Make sure it’s a mix that only requires water to prepare. • Chopped Strawberries (1 cup) – Adds fresh fruit flavor and delightful texture. Feel free to replace with raspberries or blueberries for a delicious twist. For the Glaze • Powdered Sugar (¾ cup) – For glaze sweetness and a lovely finish. Adjust quantity for desired sweetness and texture. • Strawberry Extract (⅓ teaspoon, optional) – Intensifies strawberry flavor. Omit if you don’t have any; use a few more berries instead. • Heavy Whipping Cream (2-3 tablespoons) – Used for glaze consistency. Substitute with milk for a lighter glaze version. • Red Food Coloring (1-2 drops, optional) – For aesthetic appeal. Completely optional; omit for a more natural appearance. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Strawberry Banana Bread Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick baking spray or lightly greasing and flouring it. This ensures that your Easy Strawberry Banana Bread will slide right out once baked, revealing its golden crust. Step 2: Mash the Bananas In a large mixing bowl, take your overripe bananas and mash them thoroughly using a fork or a potato masher until you achieve a smooth consistency. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your bread, allowing the natural sweetness to shine through. Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients Next, add the room temperature eggs, ¼ cup of water, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ½ cup of vegetable oil into the bowl with the mashed bananas. Whisk together until the mixture is well combined and creamy, ensuring that every ingredient is beautifully incorporated into your batter. Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Once your wet mixture is ready, gently add ⅓ cup of granulated sugar and 2 cups of Krusteaz pancake mix into the bowl. Stir the ingredients together just until combined, being careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay, as they will create a tender Easy Strawberry Banana Bread. Step 5: Fold in Strawberries Now is the time to add the star ingredients! Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped strawberries, ensuring the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the batter for flavorful bites in every slice. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your bread. Step 6: Bake the Bread Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and aromatic. Step 7: Cool in the Pan Once baked, carefully remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is essential for letting the flavors settle, making it easier to transfer the Easy Strawberry Banana Bread without falling apart. Step 8: Prepare the Glaze While the bread cools, whisk together ¾ cup of powdered sugar, any remaining vanilla extract, your optional ⅓ teaspoon of strawberry extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream until smooth. This glaze will add a delightful sweetness to your cooled bread, bringing it all together beautifully. Step 9: Frost and Set Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to flow down the sides. If using, add a drop of red food coloring for visual appeal. Allow the glaze to set slightly before slicing your Easy Strawberry Banana Bread for a perfect breakfast or snack. Expert Tips for Strawberry Banana Bread Use Ripe Bananas: Starting with overripe bananas ensures maximum sweetness and moisture, key for a delicious Strawberry Banana Bread. Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be gentle! Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked! Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes to help it set. This step prevents it from falling apart during transfer. Customize Glaze: Adjust the heavy cream in the glaze for your desired consistency. A thinner glaze can be achieved with more cream or milk. Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months to enjoy later. Strawberry Banana Bread Variations Discover delightful ways to customize your Strawberry Banana Bread for every palate! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pancake mix instead of traditional pancake mix to ensure everyone can enjoy this treat. Nuts Galore: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts the soft bread. Berry Swaps: Swap strawberries for blueberries or even mixed berries for a fabulous twist on flavor. The juicy berries will blend nicely with the bananas. Banana Boost: For extra banana flavor, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of banana extract along with your overripe bananas. The aroma will tempt everyone in the house. Sugar-Free Option: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like Stevia to keep the sweetness while cutting down on calories. Coconutty Delight: Substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a tropical vibe that adds a hint of coconut flavor to your bread. Cream Cheese Swirl: For a rich taste, mix 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla, then swirl it into your batter before baking. It creates a delightful surprise in each slice. If you’re inspired to explore more fruity desserts, why not try my flavorsome Zucchini Bread with Lemon Glaze or indulge in a slice of Strawberry Cake Refreshingly? Each offers a unique way to enjoy homemade goodness! How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Banana Bread • Room Temperature: Once cooled, store your Strawberry Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist. • Fridge: If you prefer to extend the shelf life, you can refrigerate the bread wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to 1 week. • Freezer: For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces in a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or pop in the microwave for a quick treat! • Reheating: To enjoy your bread warm, reheat slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or toast them lightly for a delicious treat any time of day. What to Serve with Easy Strawberry Banana Bread? There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm slice of homemade goodness paired with delightful accompaniments to elevate your breakfast experience. Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds a tangy contrast, enhancing the bread’s sweetness while providing a nutritious boost. Enjoy it topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon! Fresh Berries: A vibrant medley of mixed berries balances the flavors beautifully, bringing an extra zing and freshness that brightens your slice of strawberry banana bread. Honey Butter: Spreading this sweet and creamy concoction on warm slices adds a luxurious touch; the perfect drizzle complements the banana flavor with delectable richness. Coconut Chia Pudding: The creamy texture of chia pudding offers an intriguing contrast, making for a wholesome and filling breakfast that pairs well with the soft crumb of the bread. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle enhances the loaf’s natural sweetness, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Think of it as a luscious breakfast treat! Cinnamon Coffee: The warm spices in a comforting cup of coffee elevate your morning ritual, making the perfect drink to sip alongside a sweet slice of banana bread. Cream Cheese Spread: A soft and tangy spread takes your slice to the next level, creating a deliciously decadent experience that pairs effortlessly with every bite. Vanilla Ice Cream: Transform your classic banana bread into a dessert delight. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts deliciously atop warm slices for an indulgent treat! Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade cuts through the sweetness, offering a zesty twist that enhances the fruitiness in every mouthful. Almond Milkshake: A creamy, nutty shake provides a satisfying indulgence that nicely complements the flavors of your strawberry banana bread. Make Ahead Options These Easy Strawberry Banana Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mash the overripe bananas and prepare the wet ingredients (eggs, oil, water, and vanilla) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also chop the strawberries 1-2 days ahead and keep them in a sealed bag to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, combine the wet and dry ingredients, fold in the strawberries, and bake as directed for that delightful fresh-from-the-oven aroma. This makes it effortless to enjoy a homemade treat amidst your busy week, delivering just as delicious results with minimal effort! Strawberry Banana Bread Recipe FAQs What type of bananas should I use for the best flavor? Absolutely! For the tastiest Strawberry Banana Bread, I recommend using overripe bananas. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots; they’re sweeter and provide more moisture. The more ripe, the better! How should I store my Strawberry Banana Bread? To keep your Strawberry Banana Bread fresh and delicious, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you can’t finish it within that time frame, refrigerate it for up to 1 week wrapped in plastic wrap. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before enjoying! Can I freeze Strawberry Banana Bread? Yes, freezing is a great option! To freeze, slice the bread and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up. What if my bread doesn’t rise properly? If your Strawberry Banana Bread comes out dense and doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to mix just until combined; a few lumps are okay! Also, make sure your pancake mix is fresh and hasn’t expired, as that could impact the leavening. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Very! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the Krusteaz Pancake Mix with a certified gluten-free pancake mix. Just double-check to ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Is there a way to make this loaf healthier? Definitely! For a healthier Strawberry Banana Bread, consider using unsweetened applesauce instead of vegetable oil; it keeps the bread moist while reducing fat. You can also cut back on the granulated sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a lighter treat. Deliciously Easy Strawberry Banana Bread for Your Mornings This Strawberry Banana Bread merges the sweetness of bananas with the brightness of strawberries, creating a moist loaf ideal for breakfast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins Servings: 10 slicesCourse: BreakfastCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter3 Overripe Bananas Ensure the banana is well-mashed for maximum flavor.2 large Eggs Room temperature eggs blend better, resulting in a smoother batter.0.25 cup Water Can substitute with milk for added richness.2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Use high-quality pure vanilla for the best taste.0.5 cup Vegetable Oil Can be substituted with melted coconut oil or applesauce.0.33 cup Granulated Sugar Reduce or replace with honey for natural sweetness.2 cups Krusteaz Pancake Mix Make sure it's a mix that only requires water.1 cup Chopped Strawberries Feel free to replace with raspberries or blueberries.For the Glaze0.75 cup Powdered Sugar Adjust quantity for desired sweetness.0.33 teaspoon Strawberry Extract Omit if not available.2-3 tablespoons Heavy Whipping Cream Substitute with milk for a lighter glaze.1-2 drops Red Food Coloring Omit for a more natural appearance. Equipment 9x5 inch loaf panMixing bowlWhisk Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan.Mash the overripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth.Add the eggs, water, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil to the bowl and whisk until creamy.Gently add the granulated sugar and pancake mix, stirring until just combined.Fold in the chopped strawberries evenly throughout the batter.Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 40 to 50 minutes.Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.Whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth.Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and allow to set before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 135mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesUse ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. Don't overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
