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There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. And when that bread is a delightful Strawberry Rye Loaf, you know you’re in for a treat! This unique twist on traditional rye bread combines the earthy notes of rye flour with the sweet, juicy burst of strawberries, creating a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet afternoon snack. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 ½ cups rye flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Extra strawberries for garnish (optional)
Serving Size: 8 slices
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
The Sweet Story Behind Strawberry Rye Loaf
Picture this: a sunny Sunday morning, with a basket of fresh strawberries on the kitchen counter, just waiting to be transformed into something extraordinary. That’s how this Strawberry Rye Loaf came to life in my kitchen. I wanted to create a recipe that not only celebrates the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberries but also showcases the wholesome goodness of rye flour. The result is a beautifully textured loaf that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!
How to Make Strawberry Rye Loaf
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
2. Prepare Your Strawberries
In a small bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar. This step helps to draw out their juices and enhances their sweetness. Set aside while you mix the dry ingredients.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rye flour, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. The combination of rye and all-purpose flour gives this loaf a hearty texture with a hint of sweetness from the strawberries.
4. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix — some lumps are perfectly fine!
5. Fold in the Strawberries
Gently fold in the sugar-coated strawberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This is where the magic happens — each slice will burst with sweet strawberry goodness!
6. Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon be filled with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking what’s baking!
7. Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and serve it warm, or toast it for a delightful breakfast treat!
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Rye Loaf
This Strawberry Rye Loaf is more than just a delicious bread; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The nutty taste of rye flour pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy strawberries, creating a loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain, slathered with butter, or topped with cream cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Loaf
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture. Frozen strawberries can work in a pinch, but be sure to thaw and drain them well.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter too much can lead to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Storage: Keep any leftover loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or slice and freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Rye Loaf is a delightful twist on traditional bread that combines wholesome ingredients with a burst of flavor. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in a moment of self-care with a cup of tea. So the next time you find yourself with fresh strawberries, why not whip up this delicious loaf? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
