Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

What could be yummier than a thick slice of cherry almond poppyseed quick bread? This delightful treat is not only perfect for breakfast but also makes for an excellent snack or dessert. Whether you are hosting a brunch, enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, or looking for a simple yet delicious addition to your dessert table, this quick bread shines through. With its sweet cherry flavor and nutty almond undertones, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, anyone can whip up this cherry almond poppyseed quick bread quickly.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of cherries and almonds creates a unique taste that delights the palate.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread suits any time of day.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain or with butter; it’s great on its own!
• Great for Sharing: With 12 servings in each loaf, it’s perfect for gatherings or as gifts.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Essential for shaping the quick bread into the perfect loaf size.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Spoon or spatula: Ideal for mixing and folding in ingredients, ensuring even distribution.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 pkg Krusteaz Almond Poppyseed Supreme Muffin Mix
• 1 cup water
• 1 egg

For the Cherry Swirl

• 1 cup cherry pie filling

How to Make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your bread bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan. This will help prevent the quick bread from sticking when it’s done baking.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, stir together:
1. Water
2. Egg
3. Muffin mix

Combine until moistened but do not overmix.

Step 4: Fold in Poppy Seeds

Fold in the poppy seeds that come enclosed in the Krusteaz package.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan.

Step 6: Swirl in Cherry Pie Filling

Using a knife, gently swirl in the cherry pie filling into the batter for added flavor and visual appeal.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Cool for about 5 minutes before gently loosening and removing from the pan. Let it cool completely before slicing to enjoy your delicious cherry almond poppyseed quick bread! Store any leftovers in a tightly covered container.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Cherry almond poppyseed quick bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you savor it for breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Breakfast Delight

• Serve with butter: A pat of softened butter adds richness and flavor.
• Pair with yogurt: Enjoy slices with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein.

Afternoon Snack

• Top with cream cheese: Spread whipped cream cheese on top for a creamy contrast.
• Enjoy with tea: Complement your bread with a cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon break.

Dessert Option

• Drizzle with glaze: A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can elevate your quick bread into a dessert.
• Serve warm: Warm slices topped with vanilla ice cream create a decadent treat.

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How to Perfect Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

To ensure your cherry almond poppyseed quick bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your muffin mix and other ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when the bread is done baking.
• Let it cool: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before slicing to maintain its structure.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Pairing side dishes with your cherry almond poppyseed quick bread can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the bread.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a satisfying breakfast combo.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides savory contrasts to the sweet flavors of the bread.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option brings creaminess and nutrition alongside your sweet treat.
5. Smoothie: A berry smoothie complements the cherry flavors while adding nutrients.
6. Nut Butter Dip: Almond or peanut butter makes for a protein-packed dip that pairs wonderfully with each slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread, even small errors can affect your results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precise amounts of flour, water, and cherry pie filling.
• Skipping the greasing step: Always grease your loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking. Use cooking spray or butter generously.
• Overmixing the batter: Stir just until moistened. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of a light, fluffy texture.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. Test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted in the center.
• Cutting too soon: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking slices to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Reheating Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Toast slices on a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread that may help you along your baking journey.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just chop them and reduce the water slightly to maintain moisture.

How do I add more flavor to my Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?

Consider adding vanilla extract or almond extract for an extra depth of flavor.

What can I substitute for the egg in this recipe?

You can use a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture as an egg substitute for a vegan option.

How long does this quick bread stay fresh?

Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days if stored properly.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding nuts or other fruits. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy a delightful treat any time of day!