Indulge in a slice of tropical paradise with this Pineapple Quick Bread. This moist and flavorful loaf combines the sweetness of crushed pineapple with a tender crumb, making it a delightful treat for any time of the day. The subtle tang from the sour cream perfectly balances the rich flavors, while the pineapple glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, this bread brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Its easy preparation and delightful flavor make it a favorite among both novice and seasoned bakers.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 g) sour cream, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) pineapple juice (reserved from draining pineapples)
- 1 cup (244 g) crushed pineapple, drained
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup (120 g) confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (reserved from draining pineapples)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- On low speed, add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture in three additions, alternating with the sour cream and reserved pineapple juice, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the drained crushed pineapple gently with a spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, using the parchment overhang, lift the bread out and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 slices
Pineapple Quick Bread: A Taste of the Tropics in Every Bite
Introduction
Imagine the tropical aroma of sweet pineapple filling your kitchen as you bake a warm, moist loaf of Pineapple Quick Bread. This delightful treat is not just a simple baked good—it’s a slice of sunshine, packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee, serving it as a dessert, or gifting it to a loved one, this bread is sure to impress.
Pineapple Quick Bread combines the rich, buttery taste of a classic loaf with the refreshing sweetness of pineapple. With no yeast required, this recipe is a fantastic choice for beginner bakers looking for a foolproof yet flavorful bread. The addition of sour cream makes it extra moist, while the pineapple glaze enhances its tropical charm.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of pineapple in baking, the benefits of this bread, variations to try, serving suggestions, storage tips, and why this recipe stands out as one of the best quick bread recipes you’ll ever make.
The History of Pineapple in Baking
Pineapples have long been associated with hospitality and exotic indulgence. Originating from South America, pineapples became a symbol of warmth and generosity when European explorers introduced them to different parts of the world. By the 20th century, canned pineapples became a staple ingredient in American households, leading to their widespread use in baking.
The most famous pineapple dessert, pineapple upside-down cake, became an iconic dish in the 1920s, but pineapple also found its way into muffins, tarts, and, of course, quick breads. Pineapple Quick Bread is a modern take on tropical baking, offering a moist and flavorful alternative to traditional banana bread or zucchini bread.
Why Pineapple Quick Bread is the Best Choice
Pineapple Quick Bread stands out among other sweet breads for several reasons:
1. Moist & Flavorful Texture
- Thanks to sour cream and crushed pineapple, this bread remains incredibly soft and moist. The pineapple juice naturally infuses the loaf with sweetness and prevents it from drying out.
2. No Yeast, No Hassle
- Unlike traditional bread recipes that require yeast, proofing, and kneading, this quick bread relies on baking powder and baking soda to rise, making it a beginner-friendly and time-saving recipe.
3. Perfect Balance of Sweetness & Tanginess
- The tangy pineapple juice and vanilla glaze create an irresistible balance of flavors, making this bread enjoyable on its own or with toppings like whipped cream or cream cheese.
4. Versatile & Customizable
- You can easily adapt this recipe by adding shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or even white chocolate chips for an extra twist.
5. Great for Any Occasion
- Whether it’s a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, dessert, or homemade gift, Pineapple Quick Bread fits any setting.
Health Benefits of Pineapple Quick Bread
While this bread is a sweet indulgence, it also contains several health benefits due to its key ingredient—pineapple.
1. Rich in Vitamin C
- Pineapple is a powerhouse of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and promote healthy skin.
2. Supports Digestion
- The bromelain enzyme in pineapple aids digestion and can help reduce bloating.
3. Provides Energy
- This bread contains natural sugars and healthy carbohydrates, making it a great energy booster for busy mornings.
4. Good for Heart Health
- Pineapples contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit overall heart health.
Ways to Customize Pineapple Quick Bread
One of the best things about Pineapple Quick Bread is how easy it is to modify based on your preferences. Here are some popular variations:
1. Pineapple Coconut Quick Bread
- Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter for a more tropical flavor.
2. Nutty Pineapple Bread
- Mix in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
3. Spiced Pineapple Bread
- Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist.
4. Pineapple Carrot Bread
- Incorporate ½ cup grated carrots for extra sweetness and texture.
5. Pineapple Cream Cheese Swirl Bread
- Swirl in a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla for a cheesecake-like effect.
6. Gluten-Free Pineapple Quick Bread
- Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering how to enjoy Pineapple Quick Bread to its fullest? Here are some serving ideas:
- Warm with Butter – Serve slices toasted with a bit of butter for a comforting treat.
- With a Cup of Tea or Coffee – Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon break.
- Drizzled with Extra Glaze – For those who love extra sweetness, double the glaze recipe.
- Paired with Fresh Fruits – Serve with fresh berries, banana slices, or mango for a refreshing contrast.
- Topped with Whipped Cream – For an indulgent dessert, add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
How to Store Pineapple Quick Bread
To maintain the freshness of your Pineapple Quick Bread, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?
Yes! You can use fresh pineapple instead of canned, but be sure to drain the excess juice to prevent the batter from becoming too wet.
2. Can I make this into muffins instead of a loaf?
Absolutely! Simply divide the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
3. How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready!
4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free yogurt instead of sour cream.
5. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can cut down the sugar by ¼ cup or replace it with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetener.
Conclusion
Pineapple Quick Bread is more than just a delicious baked treat—it’s a versatile, easy-to-make, and crowd-pleasing recipe that brings tropical flavors into your home. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore fun variations, this bread is bound to become a household favorite. So why wait? Preheat your oven, grab a can of pineapple, and bake a tropical delight that will transport your taste buds to paradise!