This Pineapple Quick Bread is a delightful twist on traditional quick breads, combining the sweetness of fresh or canned pineapple with a hint of tanginess for a tropical-inspired treat. Moist, fragrant, and bursting with flavor, this bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. With its golden crust and soft interior studded with juicy pineapple bits, it’s like a vacation in every slice. Let’s bake up this easy, comforting loaf and bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist & Flavorful: The pineapple adds natural sweetness and keeps the bread wonderfully moist.
- Tropical Vibes: A refreshing, tangy twist that makes this bread stand out from the crowd.
- Easy to Make: No mixer required—just mix, pour, and bake!
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or drizzled with a glaze for extra indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegetable oil for a lighter texture)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (fresh or canned, drained but reserve the juice)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or macadamia nuts for crunch)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp reserved pineapple juice (or milk for a non-tropical option)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp coconut extract for extra tropical flair
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Drain the crushed pineapple, reserving the juice for the glaze (if using). Pat the pineapple dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in the bread.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter (or oil), vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple.
- If using nuts, fold them into the wet mixture.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should be slightly lumpy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake the Bread
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay, but no wet batter).
- If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
6. Cool and Glaze (Optional)
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and reserved pineapple juice (or milk) until smooth. Add coconut extract if desired.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread for a sweet finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
- For Breakfast: Slice and serve with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese.
- As a Snack: Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or a tropical fruit smoothie.
- At Gatherings: Bring to potlucks, brunches, or holiday gatherings—it’s always a hit!
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Pineapple: If using fresh pineapple, crush it finely in a food processor or grate it for even distribution.
- Don’t Skip the Drain: Excess liquid can make the bread dense, so be sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly.
- Add Zest: A teaspoon of lemon or lime zest enhances the tropical flavors.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a GF version.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Quick Bread is a celebration of tropical flavors, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess in every bite. Whether you’re craving a comforting homemade treat or looking to impress guests with something unique, this bread is sure to delight.
So grab your ingredients, mix up this easy batter, and bake your way to a slice of tropical paradise. One bite of this moist, flavorful bread, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a sunny beach—no passport required! 🍍
