Whenever I think of sunny days and the sweet aroma of fresh strawberries, I immediately want to whip up a delicious treat like Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze. There’s something immensely satisfying about baking, especially when you can share the results with family and friends. This loaf captures the essence of spring with vibrant, juicy strawberries nestled in a tender cake, topped with a silky buttermilk glaze that brings it all together. As the loaf bakes, your kitchen will fill with a warm, inviting fragrance that beckons everyone to the table. It’s a recipe that’s become a staple in my home, perfect for brunch gatherings or simply as a sweet snack to enjoy with a cup of tea.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
310 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why This Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze Is a Winner

A Perfect Spring Bake

This recipe truly shines during springtime, when strawberries are at their peak sweetness. There’s a certain joy in using seasonal ingredients, as they not only taste better but also make you feel more connected to the time of year. The strawberries in this loaf add a burst of color and flavor, creating a delightful contrast against the rich buttermilk glaze.

Easy to Make

Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is approachable and fun. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple. You won’t need any fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a loaf pan will do. I love recipes that allow anyone to feel like a professional baker!

Versatile for Any Occasion

This Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze isn’t just for springtime. It can be enjoyed year-round, for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Slice it up and serve it at a summer picnic, or pair it with a scoop of ice cream in the colder months for a festive treat. It’s a versatile recipe that fits right in, no matter the season.

Sharing the Love

One of my favorite things about this loaf is how well it travels. Whether you’re taking it to a friend’s house or gifting it to a neighbor, it’s the kind of treat that spreads joy. The love you put into baking it is palpable, and I guarantee it will be appreciated!

Beautiful Presentation

The finishing touch, a drizzle of the buttermilk glaze, elevates the loaf to a whole new level. It not only adds sweetness but also makes it look incredibly inviting. You can even garnish it with fresh, halved strawberries for a pop of color. When you present a loaf like this, it becomes more than just food; it’s a centerpiece!

Ingredients to Make Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze

The beauty of this loaf lies in its simple yet effective combination of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the finished product. From the moistness provided by the buttermilk to the sweetness of the strawberries, every ingredient harmonizes perfectly.

1 cup granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and moisture to the loaf.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and flavor.
½ cup sour cream, room temperature: Contributes to the moist texture.
2 large eggs, room temperature: Acts as a binder and adds structure.
1 teaspoon almond extract: Infuses a subtle nutty flavor.
2½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the loaf, giving it structure.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the loaf rise and become fluffy.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavors.
2 cups sliced fresh strawberries: The star of the dish, adding freshness and sweetness.
2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted: For the glaze, creating a sweet finish.
3 tablespoons whole buttermilk, room temperature: Gives the glaze a creamy texture.
Garnish: halved fresh strawberries to decorate the loaf.

Directions for Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze

Getting started with the Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze is a delightful experience. The instructions below will guide you through each step, ensuring that you get the best results. Pay close attention to the mixing and baking times to achieve that perfect loaf!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial to ensure even baking.
Prepare your loaf pan by buttering and flouring it generously. Line the bottom with parchment paper to avoid sticking. This way, your loaf will come out effortlessly.
In a large glass bowl, combine granulated sugar, melted butter, sour cream, eggs, and almond extract. Whisk everything together until smooth. You should have a creamy mixture that’s well blended.
Next, add in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your loaf may turn out dense instead of light and fluffy.
Now, fold in the sliced fresh strawberries. Gently incorporate them into the batter, ensuring an even distribution without breaking them up too much.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and level it out for even baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After this time, cover the loaf lightly with foil; this prevents the top from browning too much.
Continue baking for an additional 25 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step is essential for knowing when your loaf is perfectly baked.
Once done, let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set and makes it easier to remove.
Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important; cooling on the rack prevents sogginess.
While the loaf cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together confectioners’ sugar and buttermilk in a medium bowl until smooth. The glaze should be pourable yet thick enough to coat the loaf.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh, halved strawberries if desired. This adds a lovely touch of elegance!

Things Worth Knowing

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients like eggs and sour cream at room temperature helps achieve a smoother batter and better rise.
Mixing Techniques: Always mix dry ingredients separately before combining with wet ingredients to ensure even distribution.
Strawberry Selection: Choose ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Avoid overripe ones that may be mushy.
Baking Times: Oven temperatures may vary, so check your loaf a few minutes before the suggested time for doneness.
Cool Completely: Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing for a smoother finish and to prevent the glaze from melting away.

Ways to Customize

There are many ways to make the Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze your own! Below are some ideas that can add a personal touch or cater to different tastes.

Storage: To store leftovers, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Freezing: You can freeze the loaf for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: This loaf pairs beautifully with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Flavor Variations: Try adding lemon zest or orange zest for a citrus twist that complements the strawberries.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Addition: Consider adding chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for a crunchy texture.

What to Serve With Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze

When it comes to serving the Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze, there are countless options that will enhance your experience. Here are some delightful pairings and serving suggestions:

Tea Time: This loaf is perfect for tea time. Serve it alongside your favorite herbal or black tea for a relaxing afternoon treat.
Brunch Delight: It works wonderfully for brunch—pair it with a fruit salad or yogurt for a light, refreshing meal.
Picnic Treat: Slice it up and bring it along for a picnic. It’s easy to pack and sure to impress your friends.
Seasonal Celebration: This loaf is not just for spring; it’s a lovely addition to summer gatherings or holiday brunches.
Breakfast Option: Enjoy a slice for breakfast, perhaps with a smear of cream cheese or butter for extra richness.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a few days.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may release more moisture, so you might want to reduce the amount of sour cream slightly to compensate.

The Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze can stay fresh at room temperature for about three days when stored properly. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. For extended storage, you can freeze it for up to three months.

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with one cup of milk. Let it sit for about five minutes, and it will thicken slightly, making it a perfect replacement in your glaze.

Unfortunately, this recipe isn’t vegan as it contains eggs and dairy products. However, you can make vegan substitutions, such as using flax eggs and plant-based sour cream or yogurt, to create a version that fits a vegan diet.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze brings together the best of spring flavors in a deliciously moist loaf. It’s a recipe that not only tastes divine but also looks beautiful, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this lovely loaf; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.