“Have you ever craved the comforting taste of homemade blueberry pie but wished for something simpler? Well, gather your mixing bowls because this Blueberry Pie Quick Bread with Almond Crumble is about to change your baking game! By combining a delightful homemade blueberry pie filling with a soft, moist bread base, I’ve crafted a quick bread that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also keeps your time in the kitchen short and sweet. The crunchy almond crumble on top adds a delightful texture, making it perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy dessert after dinner. Ready to whip up a slice of sunshine? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together!”
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Irresistible Flavors: The combination of homemade blueberry pie filling and almond crumble creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
Quick and Easy: This is a simple, no-fuss recipe that lets you enjoy the joy of baking without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch with friends or a family dessert, this Blueberry Pie Quick Bread is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Customizable: Feel free to swap blueberries for your favorite fruits or add nuts to the batter for extra crunch. You might also want to check out my recipe for Warm Apple Pie for another delicious option!
Crowd-Pleasing Texture: With its moist crumb and crunchy topping, each slice will have your taste buds dancing. It’s a delightful experience you won’t want to miss!
Blueberry Pie Quick Bread Ingredients
For the Blueberry Filling
• Blueberries – Fresh or frozen; they add natural sweetness and flavor, and you can substitute with other berries for a fun twist.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; coconut sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the filling for a jam-like consistency; no substitutions recommended for best results.
• Lemon Juice – Enhances the blueberry flavor; lime juice works well in a pinch.
For the Bread Batter
• Unsalted Butter (1/3 cup) – Provides richness and moisture; margarine is an acceptable substitute.
• Eggs (2 large) – Adds structure and moisture; flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.
• Milk (1/2 cup) – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; almond milk is a great dairy-free alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour (1.5 cups) – Essential for structure; whole wheat flour can create a denser bread.
• Baking Powder – Provides leavening for a light texture; no substitutes necessary.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness of the bread.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; substituting with almond extract offers a unique twist.
For the Almond Crumble Topping
• Unsalted Butter (2.5 tbsp) – Helps achieve that crumbly texture; feel free to use margarine instead if needed.
• Flour – Essential for the crumble, mix with butter for the perfect topping.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the almond crumble; you can also use brown sugar for richer flavor.
• Almond Paste (1/3 cup) – Creates a nutty flavor in the crumble; brown sugar mixed with butter can serve as a simpler alternative.
This delicious Blueberry Pie Quick Bread is just waiting to share its scrumptious flavors with you—let’s get baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blueberry Pie Quick Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, grease an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure your Blueberry Pie Quick Bread releases easily after baking. Set the pan aside while you prepare the blueberry filling.
Step 2: Make the Blueberry Pie Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine fresh or frozen blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens, which should take about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see bubbling around the edges, creating a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool while you prepare the bread batter.
Step 3: Mix the Bread Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, sugar, eggs, and milk. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you’ll want a soft batter that’s slightly lumpy.
Step 4: Incorporate the Blueberry Filling
Gently fold the cooled blueberry filling into your batter. Take care to create beautiful swirls of blueberry throughout without fully incorporating it. This technique will give your Blueberry Pie Quick Bread those delightful bursts of fruity flavor in every slice.
Step 5: Prepare the Almond Crumble Topping
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, flour, granulated sugar, and almond paste until crumbly. This should create a texture similar to wet sand. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the top of the batter in the loaf pan, ensuring it covers the surface for that irresistible crunch.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake the Blueberry Pie Quick Bread for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs clinging, not wet batter.
Step 7: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set a little more. After that, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. This waiting period ensures your Blueberry Pie Quick Bread is perfectly moist and flavorful when you finally slice into it.
Make Ahead Options
These Blueberry Pie Quick Bread slices are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the blueberry pie filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice as directed, then let it cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. Additionally, you can mix the bread batter and the almond crumble topping up to 24 hours ahead; keep them in the fridge separately to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, just fold the blueberry filling into the batter, sprinkle on the crumble, and pop it in the oven for a delightful homemade treat that’s just as delicious as if made fresh that day!
Blueberry Pie Quick Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!
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Mixed Berry: Swap out blueberries for a mix of raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a vibrant twist. The combination will not only add color but also a burst of flavors in every bite.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy. You’ll still achieve that moist texture and delicious taste!
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Vegan Friendly: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk instead of regular milk for a plant-based delight. The result is just as satisfying and incredibly flavorful.
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Chocolate Twist: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, gooey taste. Chocolate and blueberries make a heavenly pair that elevates your quick bread to dessert status.
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Cinnamon Spice: Mix in a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the batter for a warm, aromatic flavor. Cinnamon pairs beautifully with blueberries and adds a cozy touch, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
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Nutty Addition: Consider folding in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch. The nuttiness complements the soft bread and enhances the overall texture.
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Almond Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty twist that harmonizes with the crumble topping. It brings out the almond flavors beautifully!
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Lemon Zest Boost: Don’t be shy with the citrus! Add lemon zest to the batter for an extra zing that brightens up the entire flavor profile. It gives the bread a refreshing, zesty kick.
With these variations, every slice of your Blueberry Pie Quick Bread can be a unique experience. And if you’re keen to try something else delightful, don’t miss my recipe for Classic Pumpkin Pie with a Flaky Homemade Crust—another treat your loved ones will adore!
How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Pie Quick Bread
Airtight Container: Store the Blueberry Pie Quick Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and moisture.
Refrigeration: For extended storage, refrigerate the quick bread in an airtight container for up to a week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Blueberry Pie Quick Bread overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours before slicing.
Expert Tips for Blueberry Pie Quick Bread
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even baking.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently stir the batter just until combined to maintain a soft texture; overmixing can lead to a dense bread.
Swirl, Don’t Mix: When adding the blueberry filling, fold gently to create swirls. This keeps the beautiful blueberry pockets intact.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick tester; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, ensuring perfectly baked Blueberry Pie Quick Bread.
Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack, which prevents it from getting soggy.
What to Serve with Blueberry Pie Quick Bread
Indulge your senses by creating a delightful meal around this sweet, fruity quick bread that will brighten any occasion.
- Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt adds a cool contrast to the sweetness and enhances the breakfast experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy, vibrant fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and melon offer a refreshing palate cleanser while complementing the blueberry flavors.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey elevates the dish’s sweetness while balancing the tartness of the blueberries, making every bite heavenly.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkling crunchy granola on top provides a satisfying crunch and pairs well with the soft texture of the bread.
- Coffee or Tea: Serve with a warm mug of your favorite brew to enhance the cozy vibe; the rich flavors beautifully complement the sweetness of the bread.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, add a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side – a heavenly match for the warm bread!
- Almond Milk: Pairing with a glass of smooth almond milk keeps your dish light and refreshing, offering a delightful nutty flavor complement.
- Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup can elevate the experience, providing a sweet, warm touch that perfectly harmonizes with the bread.
- Lemon Curds: Add a layer of zesty lemon curd that beautifully brightens the entire flavor profile, creating an unforgettable dessert experience.
These accompaniments not only enhance the flavors but also transform your Blueberry Pie Quick Bread into an unforgettable dining experience.
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Blueberry Pie Quick Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of blueberries should I use for the filling?
Fresh or frozen blueberries both work great for this recipe! I recommend fresh whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen blueberries can also do the trick—just keep them slightly frozen until you add them to the filling.
How do I store Blueberry Pie Quick Bread?
To keep your Blueberry Pie Quick Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving for the best flavor!
Can I freeze Blueberry Pie Quick Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps prevent freezer burn. Your quick bread can be frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What can I do if my blueberry filling is too runny?
If your blueberry filling turns out too runny, it might need a bit more cornstarch to thicken it up. Here’s a simple fix: Combine an additional 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then stir it into your filling over medium heat until it thickens like jam. This will ensure your quick bread maintains the perfect level of moisture without becoming soggy!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re concerned about allergies, be mindful of the ingredients, especially with eggs and dairy. You can replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg), and swap milk for almond or oat milk for a delicious dairy-free version. Additionally, if someone in your household is allergic to nuts, you can substitute the almond paste in the crumble topping for a simple brown sugar and butter mixture instead.
Blueberry Pie Quick Bread with Crunchy Almond Topping
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8.5x4.5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium-high heat until thickened, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, eggs, and milk. Whisk until smooth, then gradually incorporate flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cooled blueberry filling without fully blending.
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, flour, sugar, and almond paste until crumbly. Sprinkle on top of the batter in the loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
