Old-Fashioned Strawberry Swirl Loaf is a tender, buttery quick bread with ribbons of sweet strawberry flavor running through every slice. This nostalgic loaf combines a soft vanilla base with a homemade strawberry swirl, creating a beautiful marbled effect and a classic, bakery-style taste. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, afternoon coffee, or dessert, this timeless recipe delivers comforting flavor with simple ingredients.
Moist, lightly sweet, and easy to make, this strawberry swirl loaf is ideal for family gatherings, gifting, or enjoying as a slice-anytime treat.
Ingredients
For the strawberry swirl
1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the loaf
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup milk
Instructions
Prepare the strawberry swirl
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Preheat and prepare pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the batter
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with the milk, mixing just until combined.
Assemble the loaf
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Spoon half of the strawberry swirl over the batter. Repeat with remaining batter and swirl. Use a knife to gently marble the layers.
Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes.
Cool and slice
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or lightly toasted with butter. This loaf pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. The flavor deepens as it sits.
Variations to Try
Use raspberry or blueberry swirl instead of strawberry.
Add a simple vanilla glaze for extra sweetness.
Mix lemon zest into the batter for a bright citrus note.
Add chopped white chocolate for a bakery-style twist.
Why This Recipe Works
Cooking the strawberries into a thick swirl concentrates their flavor and prevents excess moisture from affecting the loaf. The balanced batter stays moist while allowing the strawberry ribbons to shine in both flavor and appearance.
Final Thoughts
Old-Fashioned Strawberry Swirl Loaf is a beautiful, comforting recipe that brings vintage bakery charm to your home kitchen. Easy to make and stunning to serve, this loaf is perfect for everyday treats or special occasions, delivering classic flavor in every tender slice.
