Strawberry Swirl Loaf

Ingredients

For the Loaf:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1½ teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)

For the Strawberry Swirl:

• ½ cup strawberry jam or preserves

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker swirl)

Optional Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Strawberry Swirl:

   • In a small bowl, mix the strawberry jam with cornstarch (if using).

   • Warm slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to make it easy to swirl.

3. Make the Batter:

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

   • In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).

   • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

   • Stir in vanilla extract.

   • Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

4. Assemble the Loaf:

   • Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan.

   • Spoon half of the strawberry mixture over it and swirl gently with a knife or skewer.

   • Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the strawberry mixture. Swirl again for a marbled effect.

5. Bake:

   • Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

   • Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Add the Glaze (Optional):

   • Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

   • Drizzle over the cooled loaf before serving.