Pineapple Quick Bread Recipe

by

Introduction

Pineapple Quick Bread is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the creamy richness of cream cheese and sour cream. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this quick bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. The addition of a sweet pineapple glaze elevates this bread to a delectable dessert-like treat.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf with chunks of juicy pineapple throughout. The bread is simple to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for both novice and experienced bakers. The pineapple glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and tang, perfectly complementing the bread’s soft texture.

Key Components:

  • Bread: A moist, tender loaf filled with pineapple chunks and enhanced by the creamy richness of cream cheese and sour cream.
  • Glaze: A sweet, tangy glaze made with powdered sugar and reserved pineapple juice.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 2 tablespoons of juice for the glaze)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 egg, beaten

For the Glaze:

  • 1â…“ cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

  1. Set Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare Pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Cream Ingredients:

  1. Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 3 oz of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Mix Wet Ingredients:

  1. Add Egg: Add the beaten egg to the cream cheese mixture and blend well.
  2. Add Vanilla and Sour Cream: Mix in 3 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1/2 cup of sour cream until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

  1. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
  2. Combine with Wet Mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender loaf.

Fold in Pineapple:

  1. Add Pineapple: Gently fold in the drained pineapple chunks, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Transfer Batter:

  1. Pour Batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake:

  1. Bake Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Cool Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare Glaze:

  1. Mix Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1â…“ cups of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of reserved pineapple juice until smooth.

Drizzle Glaze:

  1. Glaze Bread: Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the pineapple glaze over the top. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

Serving Size

  • Servings: 8
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Calories: Approx. 240 kcal per serving

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Pineapple Quick Bread can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of complementary sides and beverages. Here are some suggestions:

Sides:

  • Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or a fruit salad for a light and refreshing accompaniment.
  • Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet bread.

Beverages:

  • Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy flavors of the bread.
  • Tea: Enjoy with a hot cup of herbal or black tea for a soothing experience.
  • Milk: A glass of cold milk provides a classic pairing, especially for children.

Variations of the Recipe

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try to suit your preferences:

Add-Ins:

  • Nuts: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.
  • Coconut: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.

Flavor Enhancements:

  • Cinnamon: Mix a teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the dry ingredients for a warm spice flavor.
  • Lemon Zest: Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy kick.

Health Benefits

Pineapple Quick Bread not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers some nutritional benefits. Pineapple is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, providing several health advantages:

Key Nutrients:

  • Vitamin C: Supports immune function and skin health.
  • Manganese: Important for bone health and metabolism.
  • Fiber: Aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

Notes

  • Pineapple Juice: Reserving the pineapple juice for the glaze adds a cohesive flavor throughout the bread.
  • Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier blending with the sugar.
  • Cooling: Allow the bread to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and soaking into the bread.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Simply chop the pineapple into small chunks and drain any excess juice before adding to the batter.

How should I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately for structure.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor and moist texture.

Conclusion

Pineapple Quick Bread is a delightful, easy-to-make treat that brings the sweet taste of tropical pineapple into your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert, this bread is sure to please with its moist texture and rich flavors. The addition of a simple pineapple glaze enhances the overall experience, making each bite a burst of tropical goodness. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of paradise in every bite!

Leave a Comment