Pineapple Quick Bread is a delightful and tropical twist on traditional quick bread. This moist and flavorful bread is infused with the sweet and tangy taste of pineapple, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The addition of crushed pineapple gives the bread a wonderful texture and a burst of fruity flavor in every bite. This recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require any yeast, making it a quick and convenient option for busy days. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a spread of butter, this Pineapple Quick Bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a bit of oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. This ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs until they are light and frothy. Add the vegetable oil or melted coconut oil and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense bread.
- Add the Pineapple: Fold in the drained crushed pineapple, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter. The pineapple adds moisture and a delightful tropical flavor to the bread.
- Optional Add-Ins: If you are using chopped walnuts or pecans and shredded coconut, fold them into the batter at this stage. These add-ins provide extra texture and flavor, making the bread even more delicious.
- Transfer to Loaf Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and smooth the top.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
- Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it allows the bread to set and makes it easier to slice.
- Slice and Serve: Once the bread is completely cool, slice it with a sharp knife. Enjoy it plain, or with your favorite toppings such as butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey.
Tips:
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Slice the bread before freezing for easy thawing.
- Variations: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins to the batter, such as dried fruits, seeds, or spices like ginger or cardamom for extra flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This bread is delicious toasted with a spread of butter or jam. It also makes a great base for sandwiches or a healthy snack on its own.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Vitamin C: Pineapple is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health.
- Fiber: The addition of pineapple and optional nuts provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full.
- Healthy Fats: Coconut oil and nuts add healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.
This Pineapple Quick Bread is not only easy to make but also a nutritious addition to your diet. Enjoy the tropical flavors and the health benefits that come with each bite!