Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings a smile to your face and warms your heart, let me introduce you to Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread! This easy-to-make bread is not just a tasty addition to your breakfast table but also a wonderful snack for those busy afternoons. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home, this quick bread will surely become a favorite in your household.

What makes this recipe truly special is its vibrant combination of flavors. The sweet cherries, nutty almond essence, and the slight crunch of poppy seeds create a lovely harmony that’s hard to resist. Plus, it takes only about an hour from start to finish—perfect for those moments when you need something scrumptious without the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious loaf in no time.
• Family Favorite: The sweet cherry flavor is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even dessert!
• Make Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time and store it for later—a great option for busy weeks.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with love using simple ingredients that you can feel good about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread, you’ll only need a handful of simple and wholesome ingredients. These are items you may already have on hand, making it super convenient to bake whenever the craving strikes!

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 switch things up based on what you have or your personal taste preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Fresh Cherries: If cherries are in season, use fresh ones instead of pie filling for a more natural taste.
• Zest It Up: Add some lemon or orange zest to give your bread a bright citrus note.
• Spice It Up: Mix in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an additional warm spice flavor.

How to Make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven heated! Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your quick bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Next, grab an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan and lightly grease it. Greasing the pan helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to remove your beautiful bread once it’s baked.

Step 3: Mix Your Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, stir together the water, egg, and muffin mix until everything is moistened. This step is crucial as it combines all the dry ingredients with the liquids. Don’t worry if there are a few lumps; we’re going for quick and easy here!

Step 4: Fold in the Poppy Seeds

Don’t forget about those poppy seeds enclosed in the Krusteaz package! Gently fold them into your batter. This adds texture and that signature poppy seed flavor we all love.

Step 5: Swirl in Cherry Pie Filling

Now comes the fun part! Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and use a knife to swirl in the cherry pie filling. This creates beautiful ribbons of cherry throughout the bread, making each slice even more enticing.

Step 6: Bake Your Bread

Pop your loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 50-55 minutes or until it’s golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about five minutes before gently removing it.

Step 7: Cool Completely Before Slicing

Allow your quick bread to cool completely before slicing into it. This helps set its structure so each slice holds together nicely. Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container—you might even want to hide some away for yourself!

Enjoy every bite of this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Baking this delightful quick bread is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you’ll be sure to impress everyone who takes a bite!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the expiration date on your muffin mix and use fresh cherry pie filling for optimal flavor. Fresh ingredients lead to a more vibrant taste and texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of light and fluffy.

• Cool before slicing: Allow your quick bread to cool completely before cutting. This helps maintain its structure and ensures that each slice is perfect.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other mix-ins like slivered almonds or even a hint of almond extract for an extra burst of flavor. This versatility allows you to customize it to your liking!

• Store properly: Keep your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. Proper storage keeps your bread fresh and delicious longer.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Serving your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread can elevate the experience! Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, there are plenty of ways to make it shine.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes the bread look elegant.

• Sliced almonds: Sprinkle some sliced almonds on top for added crunch and a beautiful presentation that complements the almond flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the richness of the quick bread, making for a balanced meal.

• Yogurt parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh berries on the side. The creaminess of yogurt adds richness while balancing sweetness.

• Herbal tea: Pairing your quick bread with a cup of fragrant herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying this delightful treat.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll turn your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread into an unforgettable experience for family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, enjoy it throughout the week, or save it for a special occasion. Here’s how you can store and preserve its deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the bread; it can last up to a week when chilled.
• Keep slices wrapped individually in plastic wrap or foil to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

• Allow the quick bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• To reheat, slice off a piece and pop it into the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a toaster oven at low heat until heated through.
• Serve with butter or your favorite spread for an extra treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread.

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

While cherry pie filling adds sweetness and moisture, you can use fresh cherries. Just chop them finely and toss them with a little sugar before adding them to your batter to enhance their sweetness.

How can I make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread healthier?

To make this quick bread healthier, consider substituting water with unsweetened applesauce and using egg whites instead of a whole egg. This way, you reduce calories while keeping it moist and delicious!

What kind of almond extract should I use in Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?

If you’re looking to amplify the almond flavor, use pure almond extract rather than imitation. A little goes a long way—just a teaspoon will give your bread that delightful nutty essence.

Can I add nuts to my Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?

Absolutely! Chopped almonds or walnuts would complement the flavors beautifully. Just fold them into the batter along with the cherry pie filling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread! It’s not just a delightful treat but also a great way to share love through food. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, each slice is sure to bring smiles to your table. Happy baking!