Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a showstopping yet foolproof treat to put on your table, look no further than this Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread. It’s a beautiful loaf that brings together the tender, nutty flavor of almond, the gentle crunch of poppyseeds, and those luscious pockets of ruby red cherry filling in every slice. Whether you’re planning a special breakfast, a cheerfully bright brunch, or just need a sweet snack with your coffee, this quick bread has you covered. It’s easy, pretty, and irresistibly delicious—trust me, you’ll want to bake it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread plays an important role, and the magic is truly in their combination. You don’t need anything fancy—just a handful of pantry staples that deliver a loaf packed with flavor, softness, and a glossy swirl that turns heads.

• Krusteaz Almond Poppyseed Supreme Muffin Mix: The not-so-secret shortcut that gives you those dreamy almond notes, a moist crumb, and the perfect base for all the other flavors.
• Water: Helps bring the batter together to just the right consistency without diluting the classic almond taste.
• Egg: Adds lightness, structure, and richness to the quick bread, ensuring every slice is tender.
• Cherry pie filling: Adds bursts of tart-sweet flavor and vibrant color; swirling it in creates an eye-catching marbled effect.

How to Make Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Set the stage for success! Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F so your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread bakes evenly. Lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan—this easy step keeps the loaf from sticking and helps you get that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the water and egg. Give them a quick whisk until the mixture is smooth; this helps the egg incorporate evenly, which leads to the most tender and airy bread possible.

Step 3: Add the Muffin Mix and Poppyseeds

Pour in the entire package of Krusteaz Almond Poppyseed Supreme Muffin Mix along with the enclosed poppyseeds. Stir gently, just until everything is moistened. Overmixing can make the bread dense, so stop as soon as the batter comes together.

Step 4: Swirl in the Cherry Pie Filling

Pour half the batter into your prepared loaf pan, then spoon half the cherry pie filling over the top. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the cherries into the batter. Add the rest of the batter and repeat the swirl with the remaining cherry filling. Each loaf is a unique work of edible art!

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and let the magic happen for 50 to 55 minutes. When the top turns golden and a toothpick tested in the center (avoid the cherry spots) comes out clean, it’s ready. Let it cool for five minutes, then loosen the edges and carefully remove the bread from the pan. Allow the Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread to cool completely for neat, gorgeous slices.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar is always a lovely finishing touch, but you can get creative: try a light almond glaze, a handful of toasted sliced almonds, or even a sprinkling of extra poppyseeds for a little crunch and visual flair.

Side Dishes

Serve your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt for brunch. For a breakfast spread, some fresh fruit or scrambled eggs make it feel both indulgent and balanced. If you’re going the dessert route, a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream is a match made in heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread thickly and fan the pieces out on a beautiful board alongside fresh cherries, cheese, and nuts for an impressive brunch centerpiece. For special occasions, cut the bread into cubes and layer with whipped cream and extra cherries for an easy, no-bake trifle. Or simply wrap up a mini loaf with ribbon as a gorgeous homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and moist at room temperature for about three days—perfect for grabbing a slice on the go.

Freezing

Absolutely! Wrap the entire cooled loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place inside a zip-top freezer bag. This bread freezes beautifully for up to three months. Thaw overnight on the counter or pop a slice straight into the toaster for a warm treat anytime.

Reheating

If you prefer your quick bread warm, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or toast it lightly under the broiler. This revives the soft, tender crumb and even intensifies the flavors of the cherries and almond.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cherry pie filling?

Absolutely! Homemade cherry pie filling adds a personal touch and can be customized to your preferred sweetness. Just make sure it’s thick—not too runny—or it may sink to the bottom of your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

With the right gluten-free muffin mix, you definitely can. Just double check that your substitute includes almond and poppyseed flavors for that classic Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread experience.

Will frozen cherries work instead of pie filling?

Frozen cherries can be used if you toss them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch first. They’ll add more pops of fruit, but they won’t create the same glossy, sweet swirls you get from pie filling.

How do I prevent the bread from overbaking or drying out?

Check for doneness at the 50-minute mark using a toothpick, and be sure not to overbake. Letting it cool slightly before removing from the pan also helps retain moisture in your Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread.

Can I add a glaze on top?

Yes! A quick almond or lemon glaze is a delightful addition. Simply stir together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a drop of almond or lemon extract, then drizzle over the cooled bread for that bakery-style finish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about baking and sharing a loaf of Cherry Almond Poppyseed Quick Bread. It’s got the look, the aroma, and most importantly, the taste that keeps people coming back for more. Give it a try, make it your own, and get ready to fall in love with every bite!

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