Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Almond cherry bread is a delightful, slightly sweet loaf with a tender crumb, bursting with juicy cherries and the warm nuttiness of almonds. This easy-to-make bread is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert with a touch of elegance. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with a smear of butter. The combination of almond and cherry creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Eggs
• Milk
• Unsalted butter
• Almond extract
• Vanilla extract
• Chopped almonds
• Fresh or maraschino cherries
• Powdered sugar (for optional glaze)
• Sliced almonds (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the cherries by draining and patting them dry if using maraschino cherries. If using fresh cherries, pit and chop them.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add milk, melted butter, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
5. Incorporate dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
6. Fold in cherries and almonds: Gently fold in the prepared cherries and chopped almonds, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
7. Transfer to the loaf pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
8. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and glaze (optional): Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
10. Slice and serve: Enjoy fresh or toasted with a bit of butter.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Add a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet, indulgent treat.
• Coconut Almond Cherry Bread: Mix in shredded coconut for extra texture and tropical flavor.
• Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser but more wholesome loaf.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 slices

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast for a crisp texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes, divide the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.

How do I prevent cherries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the cherries in a little flour before folding them into the batter to help keep them suspended.

What can I use instead of almond extract?

You can use extra vanilla extract or a bit of coconut extract for a different flavor.

Is it necessary to glaze the bread?

No, the bread is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Can I add nuts other than almonds?

Yes, walnuts or pecans work well as substitutes.

How do I make this bread extra moist?

Try adding a little sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter for extra moisture.

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Almond flour alone won’t provide the right structure, but you can substitute a portion of the flour with almond flour.

What’s the best way to slice this bread without crumbling?

Use a serrated knife and let the bread cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.

Conclusion

Almond cherry bread is a simple yet flavorful recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh, toasted, or with a touch of glaze, its delightful combination of cherries and almonds makes it a crowd-pleaser. Try this easy recipe today and indulge in a slice of homemade goodness!

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