Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which helps create a soft, tender loaf.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should look smooth and slightly creamy.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, followed by half of the milk. Mix gently. Repeat with the remaining flour and milk, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf soft.
Step 6: Prepare the Strawberry Swirl
In a small bowl, stir the strawberry jam until smooth. If you want a more intense strawberry flavor or a brighter color, mix in a tablespoon or two of strawberry puree or syrup.
Step 7: Layer and Swirl the Batter
Pour half of the vanilla batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the strawberry mixture over the batter in lines or dollops. Add the remaining batter on top, followed by the remaining strawberry mixture.
Using a butter knife or skewer, gently swirl through the layers in a figure-eight motion. Do not over-swirl—you want visible ribbons, not blended batter.
Step 8: Bake the Loaf
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the loaf set and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy plain for a soft, comforting treat
- Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness
- Serve with whipped cream or fresh strawberries for dessert
- Lightly toast slices and spread with butter or cream cheese
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Swirl Loaf is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its tender texture, fruity swirls, and bakery-style appearance, this loaf is perfect for sharing—or savoring all by yourself. Whether you’re baking for guests or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
If you’d like, I can also provide a glazed version, a cream-cheese strawberry swirl variation, or format this article for blog or social media posting
🍓🍞
No Responses Yet