Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and nutty flavors, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! This Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is not just a breakfast option; it’s a versatile delight that can brighten up any moment of your day. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dessert or serving it at a family gathering, this bread is sure to impress.

What makes this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread so special is its ease of preparation and the irresistible combination of cherries and almonds. Plus, it fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma as it bakes—who could resist that? Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious loaf ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy the delightful flavors; it’s great for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and store it for those unexpected cravings or gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or even dessert!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this quick bread—just some simple and wholesome pantry staples! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread:

For the Bread

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Zest: Mix in some lemon or orange zest to brighten up the flavor.
• Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Berry Boost: Swap out cherry pie filling for blueberry or raspberry for a different fruity twist.
• Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise!

How to Make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Heat your oven to 350 degrees F. Preheating ensures your bread bakes evenly and helps develop that lovely golden color on the outside.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan. This step is crucial because it keeps your bread from sticking, allowing for easy removal once it’s baked.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, stir together water, egg, and the muffin mix until everything is just moistened. It’s important not to overmix; we want those tender crumbs!

Step 4: Fold in Poppy Seeds

Don’t forget to fold in the poppy seeds included in the Krusteaz package! They add that signature crunch and visual appeal.

Step 5: Add Cherry Pie Filling

Pour your batter into the loaf pan, then swirl in the cherry pie filling with a knife. This creates beautiful marbling throughout your bread and adds delicious bursts of flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your quick bread for about 50-55 minutes or until it’s golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your home will be worth the wait!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before gently loosening it out. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing—this helps maintain its structure.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread! It’s perfect sliced thick with a cup of tea or coffee. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some tips to ensure your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter come together more smoothly, resulting in a lighter, fluffier bread.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the bread from becoming dense. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary; use a toothpick inserted into the center to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool before slicing helps maintain its structure and flavor, making each slice easier to enjoy.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to swap in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

This delightful quick bread is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some fantastic ways to present and enjoy it!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle adds a touch of sweetness and elegance without overwhelming the flavors.
• Sliced almonds: Scatter some toasted sliced almonds on top for added crunch and an appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A medley of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the bread while adding freshness and color to your plate.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries provides a creamy contrast and enhances your meal’s nutrition.
• Herbal tea: Pairing with chamomile or mint tea creates a soothing experience that balances the sweetness of the bread.
• Cheese platter: Offer mild cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese spread alongside slices of the quick bread for a savory contrast that’s sure to please.

Enjoy your baking adventure, and remember, every bite of this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is made even sweeter when shared with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and have a delicious treat ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the quick bread in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating the bread, where it will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your quick bread warm, simply slice off a piece and microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can pop slices in a toaster oven for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling in Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cherries, chop them up and mix them into the batter. Just be mindful that fresh fruit may add moisture, so adjust the baking time as needed.

How long does Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread last?

When stored properly, this quick bread will stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup).

What are some variations I can try with Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?

Get creative! You can add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even replace almond extract with vanilla for different flavor profiles.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread as much as I do! It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to brighten any moment of your day. Whether you’re enjoying it with coffee in the morning or as a sweet afternoon snack, it’s sure to be a hit. Happy baking and savor each delightful slice!