Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s easy to whip up, look no further than this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread! It’s one of those recipes that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweetness, making it perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family breakfast, a picnic with friends, or even just a little indulgence after a busy day. The combination of juicy cherries, nutty almonds, and the unique crunch of poppy seeds creates a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

What I love most about this quick bread is how simple it is to make. You can easily prepare it during the week or bake a batch ahead of time for gatherings. Every slice is a reminder of homemade goodness and love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, your delicious bread will be in the oven in no time!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet cherries and nutty almond flavor make this bread a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this quick bread fits right in!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week; it stays fresh and tasty!
• Versatile Base: This recipe opens the door to various fun flavors when you want to switch things up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how straightforward these ingredients are! They’re all wholesome items you might already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need for our 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 switch up ingredients or add your favorite flavors. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing twist.
• Nutty Surprise: Throw in some chopped walnuts or slivered almonds for added crunch.
• Fruit Swap: Replace cherry pie filling with blueberries or raspberries for a berry version.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can give this bread a warm flavor that’s perfect for fall.

How to Make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Heat it to 350 degrees F. This ensures your quick bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan. Greasing is important because it helps the bread come out smoothly once baked—no one wants their delicious creation stuck in the pan!

Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, stir together water, egg, and the muffin mix until everything is just moistened. Be careful not to overmix; we want that lovely texture! Then, fold in the poppy seeds enclosed in your Krusteaz package before pouring the mixture into your loaf pan.

Step 4: Add Cherry Pie Filling

Using a knife, gently swirl in your cherry pie filling into the batter. This step not only adds flavor but also creates beautiful swirls for presentation!

Step 5: Bake Away!

Pop your loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes until golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible! Once done, cool it for about five minutes before loosening and removing from the pan. Allow it to cool completely before slicing—this makes sure each piece holds its shape beautifully.

Now you’ve got yourself a scrumptious Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread that’s sure to impress at any gathering—or simply enjoyed during quiet moments at home! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Making quick bread can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few insider tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your egg and water are at room temperature can help create a smoother batter, leading to a lighter texture in the finished bread.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the gluten from developing too much, which keeps your quick bread tender and fluffy.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready to come out of the oven.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely before slicing helps maintain its structure and moisture, making each slice perfect for serving.

• Store properly: Keep your quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for longer freshness. This prevents it from drying out!

How to Serve Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is not only a delicious treat but also a lovely centerpiece for any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack, presentation matters!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the tartness of the cherries.
• Sliced almonds: Adding some sliced almonds on top gives an extra crunch and enhances the almond flavor already present in the bread.
• Fresh cherries: Garnishing with halved fresh cherries creates a beautiful visual appeal while reinforcing that cherry goodness.

Side Dishes

• Creamy yogurt: A dollop of non-dairy yogurt serves as a refreshing side that balances the sweetness of the quick bread with its tanginess.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits will brighten up your plate and add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bread.
• Herbal tea: Pairing your quick bread with a steaming cup of herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for afternoon gatherings or quiet mornings.
• Nut butter spread: A smear of almond or cashew butter on warm slices provides added protein and healthy fats, making it an even more satisfying snack.

Enjoy this delightful Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread with these serving suggestions to elevate your experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is fantastic for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time and enjoy it fresh throughout the week or even share it with friends and family. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delightful creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the quick bread to cool completely before storing.
• Place slices in an airtight container or wrap them 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 quick bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
• To reheat, place slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes until warm.
• For a quick option, microwave slices on low power for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common inquiries about this delightful Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread recipe!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes! You can substitute fresh cherries by pitting and chopping them. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness since fresh cherries might be less sweet than pie filling.

How do I know when my Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is done baking?

Your quick bread is ready when it turns golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

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

Absolutely! Look for a gluten-free muffin mix that has similar flavors, and follow the same instructions for an equally delicious gluten-free version.

How long does Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread last?

When stored properly, this quick bread can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. It also freezes wonderfully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread as much as I do! Its delightful flavors are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or just a cozy afternoon snack. Enjoy every slice of this delicious creation and share it with those you love. Happy baking!