Blueberry Pie Quick Bread

An easy and delightful treat, Blueberry Pie Quick Bread is perfect for any occasion. This quick bread combines the juicy goodness of homemade blueberry pie filling with a rich almond streusel topping. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast item or a snack, this recipe stands out for its simple ingredients and comforting flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This bread comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings or impromptu gatherings.
• Deliciously Moist: The blueberry filling ensures that each slice is bursting with flavor and moisture.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, toasted, or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
• Impressive Presentation: The swirls of blueberry filling and crunchy almond topping make for a stunning loaf that will impress your guests.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this quick bread fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious Blueberry Pie Quick Bread, gather the necessary tools. Having everything at hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (8.5×4.5 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and easy release of your bread.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan: This prevents burning while cooking the blueberry pie filling.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Blueberry Pie Quick Bread, gather the following ingredients:

For the Blueberry Filling:

• 2 cups (170 grams) blueberries
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons (14 grams) cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Bread:

• 1/3 cup (75 grams) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (198 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) milk, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Almond Crumble:

• 2 1/2 tablespoons (35 grams) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup (40 grams) flour
• 1/3 cup (66 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (86 grams) almond paste

How to Make Blueberry Pie Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 °F. Grease an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan.

Step 2: Make the Blueberry Pie Filling

In a small heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat:
1. Combine the blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Cook while stirring frequently for about 10 minutes until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 3: Make the Bread Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Stir together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and milk until well combined.
2. Gently fold in flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla until just mixed.
3. Carefully fold in the cooled blueberry pie filling until swirled together.
4. Pour into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top gently.

Step 4: Make the Almond Crumble

In a small bowl:
1. Combine melted butter, flour, sugar, and almond paste.
2. Use fingers or two forks to break almond paste into small pieces while mixing until clumpy.
3. Sprinkle over the top of the batter in the loaf pan.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Bake in preheated oven for 50-60 minutes:
– Check doneness by inserting a tester; it should come out with a moist crumb.
– Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

This delightful Blueberry Pie Quick Bread offers an incredible combination of flavors that everyone will love!

How to Serve Blueberry Pie Quick Bread

Blueberry Pie Quick Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, serving this quick bread with the right accompaniments can elevate its flavors and textures.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy, freshly whipped cream adds a perfect balance to the sweetness of the bread.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top creates a delicious contrast of warm bread and cold creaminess.

With a Drizzle of Honey

• A drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness of the blueberries while adding a floral note.

With a Side of Yogurt

• Pairing with yogurt offers a tart flavor that complements the sweet and fruity bread.

As Toast

• Lightly toasted slices bring out the bread’s nutty flavors, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch.

How to Perfect Blueberry Pie Quick Bread

To ensure your Blueberry Pie Quick Bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips for great results.

• Use fresh blueberries: Fresh blueberries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if it’s done. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool fully before slicing helps maintain its structure and prevents sogginess from steam.
• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Pie Quick Bread

Pairing your Blueberry Pie Quick Bread with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a nutritious side that complements the sweetness of the bread.
2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the quick bread.
3. Cheese Platter
   Include soft cheeses like brie or spreadable cheese paired with nuts for an elegant touch alongside your bread.
4. Chia Seed Pudding
   This creamy pudding brings added nutrition and pairs well with blueberry flavors.
5. Savory Oatmeal
   A bowl of savory oatmeal topped with herbs can serve as an interesting contrast to the sweet quick bread.
6. Herbal Tea
   A cup of herbal tea serves as a soothing beverage that complements the flavors without overpowering them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blueberry Pie Quick Bread, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the butter cooling step: If you add hot melted butter directly to the batter, it can cook the eggs prematurely. Allow the butter to cool slightly before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bread dense and tough. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Ingredients like eggs and milk should be at room temperature for better mixing and even baking. Take them out of the fridge ahead of time.
• Not checking for doneness: To ensure your bread is baked through, use a toothpick inserted in the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Forgetting to preheat the oven: Preheating is essential for proper rising and baking. Make sure your oven reaches 350°F before you put in your bread pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Blueberry Pie Quick Bread in an airtight container.
• It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Blueberry Pie Quick Bread

• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating Blueberry Pie Quick Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, wrap the bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds at medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat until heated through, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Blueberry Pie Quick Bread special?

This quick bread combines the flavors of blueberry pie with a soft, moist texture, making it a delightful treat any time of day.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes! Frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Just add them straight from the freezer without thawing to prevent bleeding into the batter.

How do I customize my Blueberry Pie Quick Bread?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. Consider using different fruits such as raspberries or cherries for variations!

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute some flour with whole wheat flour or reduce sugar slightly while still maintaining great flavor.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version of Blueberry Pie Quick Bread.

Final Thoughts

Blueberry Pie Quick Bread is not only delicious but also versatile! You can enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or spices according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today, and indulge in its delightful flavors!