Sweet Berry Bread
Sweet Berry Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf packed with fresh strawberries and a hint of almond, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or teatime treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda; set aside.
- In a medium bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and almond extract.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition.
- Add flour mixture and crushed strawberries, mixing only until blended.
- Grease an 8 x 4 x 2-inch loaf pan, then line with wax paper and grease the paper.
- Turn batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly with a spoon.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50 to 60 minutes or until a pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let bread stand in the pan on a cake rack for 10 minutes, then turn out onto the rack.
- Peel off the paper and turn the bread right side up to cool completely.
- When cool, wrap airtight and let the bread stand for one day before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. You can substitute the strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries if desired. If you prefer a sweeter bread, consider adding a bit more sugar or a drizzle of honey. For a nutty flavor, add chopped almonds or walnuts. Ensure the butter is soft for easier creaming with sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is delightful on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese for added richness. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack. It also makes a great addition to brunch when served alongside dishes like Betty'S Pancakes or fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Sweet Berry Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, keeping it in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in a toaster oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Berry Bread contains roughly 171 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1284mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture. This can help maintain the bread's texture and flavor.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out sticky with wet batter, it needs more time in the oven. You can also check for a golden-brown crust as an indicator of doneness.
Can I add nuts to the Sweet Berry Bread?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread. Simply fold them into the batter alongside the strawberries, but be mindful of the additional volume they add.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).