Gluten-Free Strawberry Walnut Loaf

Name: Strawberry Walnut Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 1 Standard Loaf
Ingredients: 2 c. gluten-free flour blend, spooned and leveled (I use Bob's RedMill 1:1); 1 c. sugar; 1 tsp. cinnamon; 1/2 tsp. salt; 2 tsp. baking powder; 1/4 c. vegetable oil; 1/4 c. unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 c. milk, room temperature; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1/2 tsp. vanilla; 1 c. diced strawberries; 1/2 c. chopped walnuts; 1/2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted; 1 1/2 - 2 Tbsp. milk; 1 c. powdered sugar; Splash of vanilla

DessertsBreadsBreakfasts

Mar 14

Written By Kali Terry

If you’re looking for a delectable treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also supports a gluten-free lifestyle, then look no further than our Gluten-Free Strawberry Walnut Loaf. Imagine a loaf that strikes the perfect balance between soft, moist, and slightly nutty. It's the kind of dessert or snack that makes you feel like you’re indulging, without feeling any guilt.

slice of strawberry walnut loaf with a vanilla glaze drizzled on top

Jump to Recipe

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

The union of sweet strawberries and earthy walnuts in this loaf is a match made in heaven. As you take your first bite, the burst of juicy, fragrant strawberries welcomes you with its natural sweetness. The strawberries bring an undeniable freshness to the loaf, cutting through the richness of the bread. As you continue to chew, the crunchy texture of the walnuts provides a lovely contrast, adding a nutty, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the fruit.

What makes this loaf stand out is how the flavors unfold in each bite. The strawberries have a slight tartness to them, balancing the sweetness of the loaf without overwhelming it. On the other hand, the walnuts ground the experience with their toasted, slightly bitter undertones, creating a perfect marriage of fruit and nut. The sweetness of the vanilla glaze on top also brings an extra element of gentle sweetness that compliments the fresh berries and crunchy walnuts.

A Soft, Moist Texture

One of the biggest challenges with gluten-free baking is achieving the perfect texture. Many gluten-free baked goods end up dry, crumbly, or too dense, but the strawberry walnut loaf breaks this rule completely. The moment you cut into it, the loaf reveals a soft, moist interior that practically melts in your mouth. It's dense enough to hold up to the fruity and nutty ingredients, but light enough that each slice feels airy and satisfying.

What’s magical about this loaf is how it retains its moisture even days after baking. The strawberries naturally contribute to the loaf's juiciness, and combined with the gluten-free flour blend, it creates an incredibly tender crumb that stays fresh for days. Whether you enjoy it straight from the oven or after it's cooled down, the texture remains consistently moist and delicious.

A Sensible Gluten-Free Alternative

If you're used to traditional loaves made with wheat flour, it can be tough to find a gluten-free alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. Thankfully, this strawberry walnut loaf provides a delightful exception to that rule. Gluten-free baking requires special ingredients, and while it can seem daunting to the uninitiated, this loaf is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners.

Using a gluten-free flour blend (we prefer Bob’s RedMill 1:1), you’ll be able to achieve a consistent and stable dough that can hold up to the moisture from the strawberries. The walnuts, which add both texture and flavor, work wonderfully with the flour base, ensuring that each bite has a delightful balance of crunch and softness.

Why You’ll Love It!!!

There are many reasons to fall in love with this gluten-free strawberry walnut loaf, but let’s break down the most compelling aspects:

Incredibly Easy to Make: Despite being gluten-free, this loaf is incredibly easy to prepare. It doesn’t require any specialized techniques, and the ingredients are relatively simple to find at your local grocery store. All you need is a mixing bowl, a loaf pan, and about 15 minutes of prep time.
Wholesome Ingredients: Not only is it gluten-free, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients that will nourish your body while satisfying your cravings. The strawberries are full of antioxidants, and walnuts are rich in healthy fats. The gluten-free flour base allows this loaf to be a great option for anyone who’s sensitive to wheat but still enjoys a hearty, comforting treat.
Moist, Not Dense: The worst thing about many gluten-free baked goods is the potential for a dense, dry texture. But not this loaf! With the perfect balance of fruit and nuts, this loaf remains tender and moist from the first slice to the last, ensuring that you don’t have to worry about it becoming stale or crumbly.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you're looking for a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of tea or a sweet breakfast bite, this loaf fits the bill. Its light sweetness makes it suitable for both breakfast and dessert. Pair it with a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess or simply enjoy it as is for a quick treat.

Key Features of This Loaf

Texture

Soft and moist crumb that stays fresh for days
Slightly dense but light and airy enough to provide a satisfying bite
Crunchy walnuts offer a delightful contrast to the smooth loaf

Flavor

Sweet strawberries with a touch of tartness
Earthy, buttery flavor of walnuts balances the sweetness of the fruit
Subtle notes of vanilla and warm spices like cinnamon (if you choose to add them)

Vanilla Glaze/Icing Drizzle

Lusciously Sweet: A thick, velvety vanilla glaze drizzled over the top of the loaf adds an extra layer of sweetness and moisture. This glaze is the perfect finishing touch, with its rich, creamy texture complementing the natural flavors of the strawberries and walnuts.
Smooth and Glossy: The glaze has a glossy, smooth finish that not only looks gorgeous on the loaf but also enhances each bite. It creates a silky-sweet experience with every mouthful.

Ease of Preparation

Simple, minimal ingredients that are easy to find
No specialized equipment or complicated techniques required
Can be made in one bowl for less mess and hassle

Serving Suggestions

Once your strawberry walnut loaf has cooled, there are several ways to enjoy it:

As a breakfast bread: Serve a slice for breakfast with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The freshness of the strawberries and the richness of the walnuts make for a satisfying start to the day.
Topped with yogurt: Pair it with a spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt for a more balanced, protein-packed treat.

Let the baking begin!

gluten-free strawberry bread with walnuts and vanilla glaze

TIPS AND TRICKS:

- Always preheat your oven.

- All refrigerated ingredients should be room temperature unless stated otherwise.

- The glaze is optional, but we highly recommend it!

This Gluten-Free Strawberry Walnut Loaf is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. With its moist texture, burst of fruit flavor, and satisfying crunch from the walnuts, and sweetness from the vanilla glaze, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your gluten-free baking repertoire. Whether you’re indulging in it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, you’ll find that it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, all while being easy to make and incredibly satisfying. So, the next time you’re looking for a treat to bring joy to your kitchen, you’ll know exactly where to turn!