If you’re craving a quick, flavorful, and irresistibly moist treat, look no further than the Pineapple Cherry Quick Bread: A Bright, Moist, and Easy Fruit Loaf Recipe. This delightful loaf bursts with the tropical sweetness of crushed pineapple and the cheerful pop of maraschino cherries, all wrapped up in a tender, lightly sweetened batter. Each slice offers the perfect harmony of fruity brightness and soft crumb, making it an ideal option for breakfast, snack time, or even a cozy dessert. It’s so easy to whip up yet impressive enough to share with friends and family, truly a winner for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together beautifully with straightforward ingredients that you likely have on hand. Each item plays a key role in creating the loaf’s light texture, moist bite, and vibrant flavor profile.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure and softness.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the fruit flavors.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the loaf rise, giving it that light, airy texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure perfect leavening and tenderness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor complexity.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a rich, moist crumb.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist without heaviness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that complements the fruit beautifully.
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain): Provides juicy tropical flavor and moisture.
- ¾ cup chopped maraschino cherries (patted dry): Offers a cheerful splash of color and sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons reserved cherry juice (optional): Can be stirred in to deepen the cherry flavor and add a lovely pink tint to the batter or glaze.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the optional glaze to add a sweet finishing touch.
- 1–2 tablespoons pineapple juice or milk: Used to thin the glaze to desired consistency.
- 1–2 teaspoons reserved cherry juice (for color): Enhances glaze appearance and flavor if you want a bit more cherry brightness.
How to Make Pineapple Cherry Quick Bread: A Bright, Moist, and Easy Fruit Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously or line it with parchment paper so nothing sticks and clean-up is effortless. This simple prep step is key to ensuring your bread stays intact and looks beautiful when you slice it later.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking the dry ingredients well distributes the leavening agents evenly so your bread will rise perfectly and bake uniformly. It’s the unsung hero step for a balanced texture!
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Then add the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice. Using the pineapple with juice keeps the batter juicy, adds natural sweetness, and contributes to the bread’s tender crumb. This tropical twist is what sets the Pineapple Cherry Quick Bread: A Bright, Moist, and Easy Fruit Loaf Recipe apart.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir gently and just until combined. Be careful not to overmix here because too much stirring can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tougher bread. This step is about finding that perfect balance of uniform batter without overdoing it.
Step 5: Fold in the Cherries and Cherry Juice
Now, gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries along with the reserved cherry juice if you’re using it. The cherries provide little bursts of bright sweetness and a cheerful dash of color. Optional cherry juice enhances that beautiful rosy hue and deepens the flavor, making each slice look as delightful as it tastes.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. You’ll love the aroma filling your kitchen — a wonderful mix of fruit and vanilla inviting you to dig in.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze (Optional)
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you want to add a sweet finishing touch, whisk together powdered sugar with pineapple juice or milk and a touch of the reserved cherry juice for a pastel pink glaze. Drizzle over the cooled bread for that irresistible shine and extra burst of flavor.
How to Serve Pineapple Cherry Quick Bread: A Bright, Moist, and Easy Fruit Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving presentation, consider topping your slices with freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. A few whole cherries on top can also amplify the fruit theme, adding color and fun texture. These simple garnishes emphasize the bread’s tropical vibe beautifully.
Side Dishes
This quick bread pairs wonderfully with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or even a creamy chai latte. For a brunch or dessert platter, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The bread’s moist texture and fresh fruit flavors make it easy to combine with many light, complementary sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not slice the bread thickly and lightly toast the pieces, then spread with butter or cream cheese? You can also cube it for a tropical bread pudding or use it as a base for decadent French toast with a drizzle of honey. The Pineapple Cherry Quick Bread: A Bright, Moist, and Easy Fruit Loaf Recipe lends itself to playful and creative serving ideas that keep mealtime exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap your quick bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep the moisture locked in. It will stay fresh at room temperature for about 2-3 days, making it perfect to enjoy throughout the week without losing any of its delightful texture or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the bread either whole or sliced. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months and defrosts quickly at room temperature or in the refrigerator, giving you a convenient ready-made treat anytime.
Reheating
If you prefer your quick bread warm, a quick zap in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or a few minutes in a toaster oven will bring back that freshly baked sensation. Just be sure not to overheat it, or it could dry out. Enjoy your slice with a little butter or your favorite spread for extra yum.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh pineapple for canned crushed pineapple?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple that’s finely chopped and juicy, but be sure to include its juice to maintain the moistness. Using fresh pineapple will give the bread a slightly different, fresher flavor but just as delicious!
What other fruits pair well in this quick bread?
Apricots, blueberries, or even cranberries can be great alternatives or additions, depending on your preference. Just keep the fruit quantity similar and adjust any tartness with a bit more sugar if needed.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or similar to help provide structure and you’ll still get a moist, tender loaf.
Can I make this bread vegan?
To make it vegan, swap the eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes and use a plant-based oil. Also, ensure the maraschino cherries don’t contain any animal-derived ingredients. This way, you keep it moist and flavorful while sticking to your dietary needs.
Why does the recipe call for both baking powder and baking soda?
Using both helps balance the acidic pineapple juice and ensures a good rise and tender crumb. Baking soda neutralizes acidity, while baking powder provides extra lift, resulting in a light, fluffy loaf.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Pineapple Cherry Quick Bread: A Bright, Moist, and Easy Fruit Loaf Recipe is sure to become a joyful ritual in your kitchen. It’s effortless to make, wonderfully flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this loaf brings sunshine to any table. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Pineapple Cherry Quick Bread: A Bright, Moist, and Easy Fruit Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (8–10 slices)
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pineapple Cherry Quick Bread is a bright, moist, and easy-to-make fruit loaf bursting with tropical pineapple and sweet maraschino cherries. Perfect as a breakfast treat or afternoon snack, this quick bread requires no yeast or rising time, just simple mixing and baking for a wonderfully tender crumb with vibrant flavor.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
Fruit Add-ins
- ¾ cup chopped maraschino cherries (patted dry)
- 2 tablespoons reserved cherry juice (optional, for color)
Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons pineapple juice or milk
- 1–2 teaspoons reserved cherry juice (for color)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bread.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring they are evenly combined for uniform leavening and sweetness.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and the entire can of crushed pineapple including the juice until well mixed. The pineapple juice adds moisture and flavor to the batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can create a tough bread.
- Fold in Cherries: Carefully fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and, if using, the reserved cherry juice to add bursts of sweetness and a beautiful color.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Glaze: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, mix powdered sugar with pineapple juice or milk and reserved cherry juice to create a glaze and drizzle it over the cooled bread for added sweetness and a pretty finish.
Notes
- Do not drain the crushed pineapple; the juice keeps the bread moist and flavorful.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
- Use the reserved cherry juice in the batter and/or glaze for a vibrant color boost.
- The bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For best slicing, allow the bread to cool completely before cutting.
