Almond and Strawberry Bread Recipe
Welcome the enchanting season of spring with a delightful loaf of Almond and Strawberry Bread, where the sweetness of ripe strawberries meets the aromatic notes of almond extract, resulting in a treat that is not only moist but also bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for brunch, snacks, or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea. With the added charm of yogurt in the mix, this bread will surely become a beloved addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Granulated sugar | 6 tablespoons |
| Unsalted butter, softened | ¼ cup |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Plain yogurt | 1 cup |
| Fresh strawberries, diced | 1 cup |
| Confectioners’ sugar | ½ cup |
| Milk | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Almond extract | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 10 slices)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 192.2 |
| Total Fat | 8.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 35.2 mg |
| Sodium | 167.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26.0 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g |
| Sugars | 15.1 g |
| Protein | 3.7 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This step is crucial as it ensures that your bread bakes evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust. -
-
Prepare the Loaf Pan
Grease a 7.5 x 3.5-inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray. If you don’t have this specific size, feel free to use another; just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended, ensuring that there are no lumps. This mixture will provide the necessary structure to your bread. -
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a larger mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened unsalted butter using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the bread’s delightful texture. -
Add Egg and Extract
Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the egg and almond extract to the mixture. Continue to beat until fully incorporated. The almond extract will infuse the batter with a sweet and nutty aroma that perfectly complements the strawberries. -
Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture and plain yogurt to the creamed mixture, alternating between the two. Start by adding one-third of the flour mixture, then half of the yogurt, followed by another third of the flour, the remaining yogurt, and finally the last of the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the bread dense. -
Fold in Almonds and Strawberries
Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries and chopped almonds into the batter using a spatula. This step is essential as it distributes the berries and nuts evenly throughout the loaf, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. -
Pour Batter into Pan
Turn the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface. The batter will be thick, but it should spread easily. -
Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or a knife into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready. If it appears underbaked, allow it to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently. -
Prepare the Glaze
While the bread is baking, you can prepare the almond glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more sugar for a thicker glaze. If you desire a colorful touch, consider tinting the icing with a few drops of pink food coloring to echo the vibrant hues of spring. -
Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the bread to set before you transfer it to a wire rack. -
Glaze and Serve
While the bread is still warm, drizzle the almond glaze generously over the top. The warmth of the bread will help the glaze seep into the loaf, creating a delightful sweetness that complements the tartness of the strawberries. Once glazed, allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy this scrumptious Almond and Strawberry Bread as a delightful treat for breakfast, a lovely addition to your brunch spread, or as a sweet snack throughout the day. The beautiful combination of flavors will not only please your palate but also bring a touch of springtime cheer to your table.
