Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful addition to your breakfast table or a sweet treat for afternoon tea, you’ve come to the right place! This Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is one of my all-time favorites. The juicy cherries paired with the nutty flavor of almonds and the crunch of poppy seeds create a symphony of taste that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or just enjoying a cozy day at home, this quick bread fits right in for any occasion.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a loaf that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this bread comes together in no time!
• Family Favorite: The combination of cherries and almonds makes it deliciously appealing to all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This bread stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or last-minute guests.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to get started on this delicious Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread! You’ll be surprised at how few ingredients are needed to create such a delightful treat.

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 Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste buds or whatever you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Change the Fruit: Swap cherry pie filling with blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist.
• Make It Citrus: Add zest from an orange or lemon to brighten the flavor even more.
• Sweeten it Up: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup over each slice before serving for an added touch of sweetness.

How to Make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees F. Preheating is key because it ensures even baking throughout your loaf. While that warms up, lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan so your quick bread doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, stir together the water, egg, and muffin mix until everything is moistened. It’s important not to overmix; just combine until you see no dry spots! Then, fold in the poppy seeds included in your Krusteaz package. This step adds a lovely texture and flavor.

Step 3: Add the Cherries

Now comes one of my favorite parts—swirling in that cherry pie filling! Pour your batter into the greased loaf pan and then use a knife to create swirls with the cherry filling. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives your bread a beautiful marbled look.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Pop your loaf into the preheated oven and bake for about 50-55 minutes or until it’s golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen during baking will be heavenly! Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about five minutes before loosening it out carefully. Allow it to cool completely before slicing—if you can wait!

Enjoy every bite of this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Baking this delightful cherry almond poppyseed quick bread is a breeze, but a few tips can help elevate your loaf to perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking ingredients, especially the egg and cherry pie filling. Fresh ingredients ensure the best flavor and texture in your quick bread.

• Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. You want to maintain that light, fluffy texture that makes quick bread so enjoyable.

• Swirl gently: When incorporating the cherry pie filling, use a gentle hand to swirl it in. This keeps the cherries distributed throughout without completely blending them into the batter.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!

• Cool completely before slicing: Allow your quick bread to cool fully in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps set the texture and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

This cherry almond poppyseed quick bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any gathering or as a cozy treat at home. Pair it with some delightful garnishes and sides for an even more enjoyable experience!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds sweetness and an attractive finish.
• Fresh cherries: Top each slice with a few fresh cherries for color and an extra burst of flavor.
• Almond slivers: Scatter toasted almond slivers over the top for added crunch and a lovely nutty aroma.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: A creamy yogurt parfait layered with granola and fresh berries balances the sweetness of the quick bread while adding refreshing creaminess.
• Fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the flavors of cherry and almond beautifully while adding freshness to your meal.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea pairs nicely with this sweet bread, enhancing its comforting qualities.
• Cream cheese spread: Whip up a simple cream cheese spread mixed with honey or jam for an indulgent addition that brings richness to every bite.

Enjoy every slice of your cherry almond poppyseed quick bread, whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or simply as an afternoon snack!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is a fantastic option for meal prep! It’s not only delicious but also stays fresh, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the quick bread to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread for easy access.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• For individual slices, remove from the freezer and let thaw at room temperature.
• To warm, pop slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or toast them lightly until heated through.
• If reheating an entire loaf, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and warm it for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this delightful 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 and mix them with a little sugar to mimic that sweetness before adding them into your batter.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?

You can add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for an extra almond flavor. A sprinkle of chopped almonds on top before baking can also add a wonderful crunch and enhance the nutty taste!

Can I make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Look for a gluten-free muffin mix that suits your dietary needs. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged, ensuring you still enjoy that delightful flavor combination.

How long does Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread stay fresh?

When stored properly, this quick bread can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it as mentioned above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread! It’s special not just because of its delightful flavors but also because it’s perfect for any occasion—be it breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Enjoy every slice and share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!