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If you love fresh, fruity treats with a cozy, comforting twist, then you are going to adore this Strawberry Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe! Imagine a moist, tender loaf packed with juicy diced strawberries and crowned with a luscious, sweet vanilla glaze that melts into every crumb. It’s the perfect way to bring a touch of springtime sweetness into your kitchen any time of year. Whether you’re looking for a delightful breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a charming dessert, this strawberry bread will quickly become a beloved staple you can’t wait to share with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several bowls and ingredients neatly arranged. In the center is a white bowl full of bright red strawberries with green leaves. Surrounding it are clear glass bowls containing white flour, cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Two brown wooden small bowls hold salt and another white ingredient. At the bottom are two white eggs and a stick of butter with the word

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity yet brilliant harmony of flavors. Each ingredient plays a special role, from the creamy butter that guarantees richness, to the fresh strawberries that burst with juiciness, and the vanilla glaze that adds the perfect sugary finish. Let’s take a look at these essential ingredients that come together effortlessly to create such a memorable loaf.

1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and keeps the bread tender and moist.
1 cup sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering the natural strawberry flavor.
2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the binder that holds everything together with a light texture.
1 cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess that enhances moisture and gives the bread a soft crumb.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with warm, floral notes that complement the strawberries beautifully.
1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The structure builder that creates the sturdy yet tender base for the bread.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise, making it light and fluffy instead of dense.
1 cup strawberries, diced: The star of the show, providing fresh bursts of juicy strawberry flavor and a pretty pink hue throughout.
2/3 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a silky sweet topping that perfectly complements the bread.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds a fragrant note that ties the glaze to the batter flavors.
4 tablespoons heavy cream (for glaze): Ensures a smooth, pourable glaze that drapes beautifully over the loaf.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Strawberry Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper or brushing it generously with oil. This small prep step ensures your bread will come out perfectly without sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Grab a mixer and beat the softened butter and sugar together until they become light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which contributes to the lovely tender texture of the finished bread. Remember to scrape down the sides of your bowl so everything gets evenly mixed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Once creamed, add the beaten eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix everything thoroughly so your batter becomes smooth and slightly thick. These ingredients work together to produce a rich and flavorful base that’s just waiting for the strawberries.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. This dry mix is crucial for giving the bread rise and proper structure while balancing the sweetness.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Components

Add the dry ingredients gradually to the wet mixture, stirring gently after each addition until fully combined. The batter will be thick, which is just right for folding in the next fresh ingredient.

Step 6: Fold in the Strawberries

Carefully fold the diced strawberries into the batter using a silicone spatula. This technique ensures that the strawberries don’t get mashed and stay evenly distributed, giving every bite a burst of juicy fruit.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

Pour your luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. When done, let your bread rest in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes so it begins setting before moving it to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Vanilla Glaze

After the bread has completely cooled, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until you get a smooth, decadent glaze. This vanilla glaze not only adds a shiny finish but also deepens that sweet vanilla aroma for the ultimate finishing touch.

Step 9: Finish with the Glaze

Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled strawberry bread and allow it to set for a few minutes. Once it’s firm and slightly glossy, your Strawberry Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe is ready to serve and impress!

How to Serve Strawberry Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

A rectangular metal baking pan filled with a creamy, pale yellow batter that has small red bits spread evenly throughout. The batter is smooth but displays gentle swirls and waves on the surface, indicating it was recently spread. The pan rests on a white marbled surface with a small glass bowl of granulated sugar and a white bowl with whole strawberries nearby. A dark blue and white striped cloth is placed to the right side of the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some freshly chopped strawberries or a few mint leaves on top to add a refreshing pop of color and brightness. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the glaze can also lend a delicate, snowy look perfect for special occasions.

Side Dishes

Pair this strawberry bread with creamy yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream for breakfast or dessert. A cup of hot coffee or a fruity herbal tea complements the vanilla and strawberry notes beautifully, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread thick and serve it warm with melting butter for a simple treat, or turn it into an indulgent French toast breakfast. You can also cut the bread into cubes to create a strawberry bread trifle layered with custard and berries, turning this loaf into a show-stopping centerpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover strawberry bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps retain moisture and flavor so each slice tastes just as delightful as the first.

Freezing

Strawberry Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe freezes very well! Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bread overnight in the fridge, and refresh with a fresh drizzle of glaze.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast briefly to bring back that freshly baked warmth. Avoid overheating to keep the bread soft and the glaze intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen if that’s what you have. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid adding too much moisture to the batter.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ideally one that includes xanthan gum for structure. Baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye while baking.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

You can prepare the vanilla glaze ahead and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two. Give it a good whisk before drizzling, as it might thicken slightly when chilled.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, but keep in mind the bread may be slightly less rich and moist.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The classic test is inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about this Strawberry Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe that sparks joy with every bite. Its simple ingredients, easy steps, and incredible flavor are bound to win over both beginners and experienced bakers alike. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and bake yourself a lovely loaf of strawberry sweetness—you absolutely deserve it!

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