Pineapple Quick Bread

Ingredients

Bread:

• 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 (reserve 2-3 tablespoons of juice for the glaze)

Glaze:

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

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bread pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Then, add the beaten egg and mix thoroughly.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the cream cheese mixture, stirring gently. Mix in the sour cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure the bread remains tender.
5. Add Pineapple: Fold in the drained crushed pineapple gently, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
7. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. This initial cooling period helps the bread set. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar with the reserved pineapple juice. Stir until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more juice or sugar.
9. Glaze the Bread: Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Pineapple Quick Bread, a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors with a moist, tender crumb!