Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pineapple Quick Bread is a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. The crushed pineapple keeps the bread moist and adds a burst of tropical sweetness, while the cream cheese and sour cream provide a velvety texture. The simple glaze, made with pineapple juice and powdered sugar, adds a perfect touch of sweetness and extra shine. It’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
3 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup sour cream
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained (save 2-3 Tbsp of the juice for the glaze)

For the Glaze:

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bread pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the egg, sugar, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Add Sour Cream and Pineapple: Stir in the sour cream until combined, then fold in the drained crushed pineapple.
Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Glaze: While the bread is cooling, mix together the powdered sugar and reserved pineapple juice in a small bowl until smooth and the desired consistency is reached.
Drizzle the Glaze: Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to soak into the bread slightly.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans to add crunch and texture to the bread.
Spices: For added warmth, include a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the batter for an extra tropical flavor.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing: This bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Be sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice before adding it to the batter.

2. Can I make this bread without the glaze?

Yes, the bread is delicious on its own without the glaze. You can even skip the glaze for a less sweet option, or just dust it with powdered sugar.

3. Can I use a different kind of cheese instead of cream cheese?

Cream cheese gives the bread a rich texture, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with ricotta or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy effect.

4. How do I store leftover bread?

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Keep it at room temperature for a few days, or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

5. How can I make this bread more flavorful?

Add more spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to enhance the flavor. You can also fold in some toasted coconut or chopped nuts for added texture.

6. Can I use non-dairy sour cream or cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute non-dairy versions of both ingredients to make the recipe dairy-free. Look for plant-based sour cream and cream cheese alternatives.

7. Can I use a different type of glaze?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of glazes, such as a simple lemon glaze or a honey glaze, for a unique twist on the bread.

8. How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, with no wet batter sticking to it. It should also be golden brown on top.

9. Can I add more fruit to this bread?

Yes, you can add other fruits like raisins, dried cranberries, or even chopped bananas for a fun twist on the traditional recipe.

10. Can I make this recipe into muffins instead of bread?

Yes, you can make muffins instead of bread. Scoop the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Conclusion

Pineapple Quick Bread is a sweet, moist, and easy-to-make treat that brings the tropical flavors of pineapple to your kitchen. With its soft crumb and creamy glaze, this bread makes a delicious addition to your breakfast table, afternoon snack, or dessert spread. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with a cup of tea, this bread will surely delight anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tropical goodness in every slice!