As I pulled a loaf of Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread from the oven, the warm aroma of sweet cherries mingled with a nutty almond scent filled my kitchen, instantly brightening my mood. This delightful quick bread, with its soft texture and fruity burst, is perfect for any time of day, whether enjoyed as a cozy breakfast or a satisfying afternoon snack. What makes this recipe even better is how effortlessly it comes together, thanks to just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. In a little over an hour, you can bring joy to your table and impress friends or family alike! Ready to find out how easy it is to create this heavenly treat?
Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread is incredibly easy to make, requiring only basic baking skills and a few simple ingredients. Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings or nuts, making it a great base for your creativity! Speedy: With a prep time of just about 10 minutes, you’ll have a fresh loaf ready in under an hour. Deliciously Moist: Each slice is packed with juicy cherries and the satisfying crunch of poppyseeds, providing a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Impressive: This quick bread not only tastes fantastic but also looks gorgeous, making it perfect for brunch or dessert. Whether enjoyed warm with a dollop of cream cheese or alongside your morning coffee, it guarantees to be a crowd-pleaser!
Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- Krusteaz Almond Poppyseed Supreme Muffin Mix – This mix serves as the base flavor and structure; if you can’t find it, any similar muffin mix works well.
- Water – Provides hydration for the batter; for a creamier texture, consider using milk instead.
- Egg – Acts as a binder and adds moisture; a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) is a great substitution for vegans.
For the Mix-ins
- Cherry Pie Filling – Infuses sweetness and fruity flavor; opt for fresh or frozen cherries for a healthier twist.
This delightful Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread combines simplicity and vibrant flavors, making it an irresistible treat for any baking enthusiast!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your loaf pan. Lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread releases easily after baking. This initial step helps set the stage for a beautifully baked loaf!
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Krusteaz Almond Poppyseed Supreme Muffin Mix with water and the egg. Stir gently until you see no dry mix remaining; be careful not to overmix, as this could make the bread dense. You want the mixture to be just moistened, which should take around 1-2 minutes of gentle folding.
Step 3: Fold in Poppy Seeds
Now it’s time to add in the poppy seeds from the muffin mix packet. Gently fold them into the batter using a spatula to evenly distribute the seeds. You’ll notice the batter starting to come together beautifully, creating a delightful base for your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread. This step adds a touch of crunch and flavor!
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Pour the prepared batter into your greased loaf pan, smoothing the top with the spatula for an even surface. Ensure an even distribution throughout the pan as this will help it bake uniformly. Visual cues here include a smooth, level batter with edges slightly higher than the center, ensuring a nice dome during baking.
Step 5: Swirl in Cherry Filling
Using a knife, gently swirl in the cherry pie filling into the batter to create a marbled effect. Aim for a beautiful balance between the cherries and the batter without fully mixing them in. This step not only enhances the sweetness but also adds a lovely visual aspect to your finished Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end, looking for a golden brown color on top and sides. You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, indicating your quick bread is perfectly baked.
Step 7: Cool and Release
Once out of the oven, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This short cooling period will make it easier to remove from the pan without damaging it. Afterward, use a butter knife to carefully loosen the edges before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely, which takes about 30 minutes.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once fully cooled, slice your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread into generous pieces using a serrated knife. Take care to slice gently to maintain the lovely structure and texture. You can now enjoy it as-is or with a pat of butter or cream cheese for an extra special touch.
What to Serve with Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?
This quick bread is perfect for creating a delightful meal that combines sweet and savory elements.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cherries, making for a comforting contrast.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance, enhancing the fruity notes of the quick bread.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer with granola and berries for a delicious breakfast that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
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Herb-Infused Butter: Spread a dollop over warm slices for an indulgent, herbaceous twist that complements the nutty almond flavor.
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Honey-Lemon Tea: Sipping this tea alongside a slice offers a warm, soothing experience to enhance the cozy nature of the bread.
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Caramelized Pears: Add a touch of elegance with these sweet, warm fruits that elevate the meal with their soft texture and caramel flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent dessert, drizzle dark chocolate over slices for a luxurious treat that’s hard to resist.
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Almond Milk: A glass of this nutty milk is the perfect smooth drink to accompany your quick bread, enhancing its almond essence.
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Cinnamon Sugar Crumble: Top your quick bread with this sweet, crunchy addition for a delightful texture contrast and extra sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread
Room Temperature: Store your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread in a tightly covered container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend its shelf life, refrigerate the bread, where it can stay good for up to a week. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of the quick bread for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for optimal freshness.
Reheating: To enjoy your quick bread warm, simply reheat slices in the oven or microwave until heated through, making for a cozy treat anytime!
Variations & Substitutions for Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread
Feel free to make this delightful Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread your very own by experimenting with these fun variations!
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Fruit Swap: Replace cherry pie filling with blueberries or peaches for a refreshing twist. Each fruit imparts its own unique flavor profile, creating new taste experiences.
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Nutty Addition: Add slivered almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch. The added texture brings a delightful surprise in each bite, enriching the overall experience.
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk in place of water to make the bread dairy-free without sacrificing creaminess. This small swap beautifully enhances the almond flavor, truly embracing the essence of this recipe.
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Sweetness Boost: For a sweeter bite, mix in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup with the batter. This natural sweetness complements the cherry and almond notes perfectly balance, enhancing your enjoyment.
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Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter for a refreshing citrus undertone. Just a hint of zest can elevate the flavor to a whole new level, invigorating the senses.
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Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) to make this quick bread vegan-friendly. It keeps the moisture while ensuring everyone can savor this delightful treat.
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Flavorful Extract: For an intensified almond flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the batter. This ensures that nutty taste sings through each slice, creating an irresistible aroma.
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Coconut Twist: Fold in desiccated coconut into the batter for a tropical flair. This twist adds a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness, transporting you to paradise with every bite.
With these variations, you can create a unique version of the Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread to suit your taste preferences! And if you find yourself looking for more delightful recipes, consider making a batch of Nutella Churro Bombs for a sweet treat or try the delectable Indian Butter Chicken for dinner!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Breads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the batter and pour it into the loaf pan up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can bake the bread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or refrigerate it for added freshness. If you choose to freeze it, slice the bread before wrapping and storing it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take it out, warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, and relish this delicious treat that’s just as flavorful as when it was freshly baked!
Expert Tips for Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your water and egg are at room temperature to help achieve a smoother batter and better mixing.
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Avoid Overmixing: Gentle mixing is key! Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense bread, so stop mixing as soon as no dry spots remain.
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Cooling is Crucial: Allow your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread to cool completely before slicing. This ensures that the loaf retains its structure and texture.
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Flavor Substitution: Feel free to swap the cherry pie filling with other fruits like blueberries or peaches for a delightful twist on flavor.
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Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, your quick bread is ready! A little extra time in the oven may be needed if it’s still wet.
Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of cherries should I use for this recipe?
You can use cherry pie filling for a sweeter flavor, but fresh or frozen cherries are great alternatives if you prefer a less sweet option. If using fresh cherries, make sure to pit and chop them first!
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How should I store my Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?
Store your quick bread in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure it’s well-wrapped to maintain its moisture.
Can I freeze Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the quick bread after it’s completely cooled, and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat!
What if my bread is too dense or doesn’t rise?
The most common reason for a dense loaf is overmixing the batter. Remember to mix just until no dry spots are visible. Additionally, check that your baking powder or muffin mix is fresh, as expired ingredients can affect rising.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re following a vegan diet, you can replace the egg with a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and letting it sit until it thickens. Always check for nut allergies if you’re using almond extract or nuts!
Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread That's Easy and Irresistible
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 inch loaf pan.
- Combine the Krusteaz Almond Poppyseed Supreme Muffin Mix with water and the egg in a large bowl. Mix gently until moistened.
- Fold in the poppy seeds from the muffin mix packet.
- Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Swirl in the cherry pie filling using a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the loaf for 50-55 minutes until golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- Cool the bread in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve with butter or cream cheese.
