Strawberry Swirl Loaf: A Soft, Buttery Bread Ribboned with Fresh Berry Sweetness

There’s something timeless about a homemade loaf cake cooling on the counter. A Strawberry Swirl Loaf takes that comforting classic and elevates it with vibrant ribbons of sweet-tart strawberry running through every slice. The contrast between tender vanilla crumb and fruity swirls creates a loaf that feels both rustic and elegant — perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a light dessert.

Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to creating a beautifully marbled strawberry loaf from scratch.

What Makes This Loaf Special?

Unlike simply mixing strawberries into batter, this method creates a concentrated strawberry swirl that weaves through the loaf in distinct, eye-catching ribbons. The result:

• Moist, buttery texture
• Balanced sweetness
• Natural strawberry flavor
• Beautiful marbled presentation

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Swirl:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
• 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Loaf Batter:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Swirl

1. Place chopped strawberries in a small saucepan.
2. Add sugar and lemon juice.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. As the strawberries soften, mash them gently with a spoon.
5. Simmer for about 8–10 minutes until thickened.
6. If needed, stir in cornstarch dissolved in 1 teaspoon water.
7. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Tip: The swirl should be thick like jam — not watery — so it doesn’t sink in the batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
• Line with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together.
2. Mix for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy.

This step creates air pockets that help the loaf rise and stay tender.

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