Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that warms the heart and fills the home with a sweet aroma, look no further than this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The combination of juicy cherries, nutty almond flavor, and crunchy poppy seeds creates a taste sensation that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me; once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen!

The best part? This quick bread is incredibly easy to whip up! You can enjoy it warm from the oven or let it cool down for a perfect snack any time of day. Let’s dive into why this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is sure to become a beloved recipe in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple ingredients, this quick bread comes together in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet cherry flavor and fun poppyseed crunch.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time for busy mornings or surprise guests; it keeps well!
• Versatile treat: Perfect as a breakfast option or an afternoon snack with tea or coffee.
• Deliciously moist: The cherry pie filling keeps this bread wonderfully moist and flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread!

For the Quick Bread

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

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Use different fruit: Swap out the cherry pie filling for blueberry, raspberry, or even peach filling!
• Make it gluten-free: Look for gluten-free muffin mix options to accommodate dietary preferences.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cinnamon or almond extract to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is essential as it ensures even baking throughout your quick bread. While the oven heats up, lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, stir together the water, egg, and muffin mix until just moistened. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser texture. Now, fold in the poppy seeds that come with your Krusteaz package—these little seeds add delightful crunch and visual appeal!

Step 3: Add Cherry Filling

Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared loaf pan. Using a knife, swirl in the cherry pie filling gently. This not only adds sweetness but also creates beautiful marbled patterns throughout your bread.

Step 4: Bake

Pop your loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 50-55 minutes or until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will soon be filled with mouthwatering aromas! Once baked, let it cool for about 5 minutes before carefully loosening it from the pan. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing—it’s tough to resist warm bread but giving it time enhances its flavors!

Now you have all the steps needed to make this delicious Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread! Enjoy every slice fresh out of the oven or save some for later; either way, you’re in for a treat!

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Baking is all about joy and experimentation, and with these pro tips, your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread will turn out even more delightful!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with ingredients at room temperature helps them combine more easily, creating a smoother batter and a better texture in the final bread.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently mix until just combined to avoid dense bread. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a heavier texture that we want to avoid.

• Swirl gently: When incorporating the cherry pie filling, use a gentle hand. This keeps the swirls distinct and visually appealing while ensuring every bite has that delicious cherry flavor.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your bread during the last few minutes of baking. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean for perfectly baked bread.

• Let it cool properly: Allowing your quick bread to cool completely before slicing helps maintain its structure and moisture. This way, each slice will be perfect and not fall apart.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

This delightful quick bread can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re treating yourself or serving guests, here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Sliced almonds: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of your cooled bread for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the almond essence beautifully.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, making each slice look like a treat from a fancy bakery.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet bread. It can balance flavors while adding vibrant colors to your table.
• Greek-style yogurt: A dollop of thick yogurt on the side adds creaminess and tanginess, which pairs nicely with the sweetness of the cherry filling.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea enhances the flavors of the quick bread while providing a cozy beverage option for dessert time.
• Mixed nuts: A small bowl of mixed nuts offers a satisfying crunch and healthy fats that complement the soft texture of your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll create an unforgettable experience around your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week; just ensure it’s well wrapped to avoid drying out.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled quick bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For a warm slice, pop it in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

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

Yes! You can use fresh pitted cherries. Just chop them into small pieces and fold them into the batter, adjusting the sweetness as needed since fresh cherries are less sweet than pie filling.

How long will Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread last once baked?

Once baked, this quick bread will last about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week when refrigerated, making it great for meal prep!

Can I make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread without eggs?

Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup) for an egg-free version.

What should I serve with Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?

This quick bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, and you can enjoy it plain or spread with your favorite nut butter or cream cheese for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up your own batch of Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread! It’s such a lovely recipe that brings joy and warmth to any gathering or quiet morning at home. Enjoy each delicious slice, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family! Happy baking!