0.5cupunsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1cupgranulated sugar
2largeeggs, at room temperature
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
2cupsall-purpose flour
1teaspoonbaking soda
0.5teaspoonsalt
0.5cupbuttermilk, at room temperature
0.5cupdiced strawberries
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter and dusting it with flour, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pureed strawberries with the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to blend the ingredients together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs to the mixture one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the strawberry mixture. Alternate adding the dry mixture and the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Gently fold in the diced strawberries at the end, being careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and milk. Continue adding milk a little at a time until you achieve a pourable consistency that will generously drizzle over the bread.
Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the prepared glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Let the glaze set before slicing.
Notes
For an elegant display, serve the sliced bread on a decorative platter. Garnish with whole or halved strawberries and a light dusting of powdered sugar.