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Quick Guide to Quick Bread

Quick Bread

No, it's not the bread you pick up on a quick trip through the supermarket. The term "quick bread" refers to those breads such as muffins, scones and loaves that are fast and simple to make, that use baking powder or baking soda or a combination for leavening.

Quick breads can be savory or sweet, and depending on the type of bread, some are served warm, others at room temperature. One of the most popular quick breads is corn bread. It's great plain, but Cowboy Chile Cheese Corn Bread is an extra moist corn bread chock-full of corn, chilies and cheese.

With the array of pans Wilton has available, this versatile recipe can be made into traditional muffins, or loaves of various sizes. The mini loaf pan makes six loaves at once; the petite pan makes 12 smaller loaves. Sized like muffins, the small loaf shape is a fun change of pace from traditional. Whatever shape it's baked in, the corn bread is perfect as a meal accompaniment or as a go-with for chili or soup. For a unique presentation, serve in a bandanna-lined basket or new straw hat for a real Country-Western flair.

For breakfast, brunch or a snack, Banana Poppy Seed Bread fits the bill. It takes just minutes to stir together, then it, too can be baked in the muffin or loaf pan of your choice. The petite loaves and muffins are just the right size for wrapping individually and freezing to be pulled out one-by-one as needed. To give muffins an extra festive look, line the muffin tin with colorful, decorated paper baking cups. And whenever you make quick breads, keep these tips from the Wilton test kitchens in mind:

*Don't overmix the batter or dough, otherwise poor bread texture can result.

*Combine all dry ingredients; then add liquid ingredients and stir just until the dry ingredients are moistened. For most muffins and quick breads, the batter should be lumpy.

*To assure maximum volume, bake most quick breads immediately as some of the leavening power is lost once the dry and moist ingredients are combined.

Regular size loaf and muffin pans as well as mini and petite versions can be ordered directly from Wilton, 2240 W. 75th Street, Woodridge, Illinois, 60517. (Or, call 708-963-7100 Ext. 320.) Also look for pans in decorating or craft stores, wherever Wilton products are sold.

To learn basic decorating techniques for a variety of fabulous cakes and confections, Wilton Method of Cake Decorating Classes are held in department and craft stores and cake decorating specialty shops across the country. Call toll free 1-800-323-1717, Operator 440 for information on the decorating classes nearest you. (In Illinois, call 1-800-942-8881, Operator 440.)