I can still remember the first time I baked a loaf of Cherry Almond Bread. It was a cozy autumn afternoon, and the aroma of sweet cherries and toasted almonds wafted through my kitchen, luring me in with its irresistible charm. As I sliced into the golden-brown crust, I was greeted with the most beautiful sight – a mosaic of juicy cherries and crunchy almonds nestled in a tender, buttery crumb. That first bite was pure bliss, and I knew I had found a new family favorite.
Why This Cherry Almond Bread Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cherry Almond Bread
What sets this Cherry Almond Bread recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key lies in the careful selection and combination of ingredients. The all-purpose flour provides a sturdy base, while the baking powder gives the bread a lovely rise. The pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and brings out the natural flavors of the cherries and almonds.
The real magic happens when the softened unsalted butter is creamed with the granulated sugar, creating a light and airy batter. The two large eggs add richness and structure, while the vanilla extract lends a warm, fragrant note. The milk ties everything together, ensuring a moist and tender crumb. And of course, the star ingredients – the fresh or frozen pitted cherries and the toasted sliced almonds – provide the signature flavor and texture that make this bread truly irresistible.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the foundation of the bread, providing structure and a delicate crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: The leavening agent that gives the bread its rise and fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: A small but crucial addition that enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: The fat that adds richness, moisture, and a delectable buttery flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The sweetener that brings out the natural sweetness of the cherries and almonds.
- 2 large eggs: Responsible for binding the ingredients and creating a tender, moist crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps to integrate the ingredients and ensures a soft, velvety texture.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries, halved: The star ingredient that gives this bread its distinctive flavor and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds: Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness that complements the sweet cherries perfectly.
Step-by-Step Cherry Almond Bread Instructions
Preparing Your Cherry Almond Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time and 60 minutes of baking, for a total time of 75 minutes. You’ll need a mixing bowl, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, a spatula, and a loaf pan to get started.
1- In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set this dry ingredient mixture aside.
2- In a large mixing bowl, cream the 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3- Beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Then stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
4- Gradually add the 1/2 cup of milk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. The batter should be smooth and creamy.
5- Fold in the 1 cup of fresh or frozen pitted cherries, halved, and the 1/2 cup of sliced almonds until evenly distributed.
6- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the Cherry Almond Bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for optimal blending and rising. This ensures a smooth, well-incorporated batter.
- Fold the cherries and almonds in gently to avoid crushing the delicate fruit and keeping the texture intact.
- Check the bread a few minutes before the 60-minute mark to prevent over-baking. The crust should be a deep golden brown.
- For an extra-special touch, sprinkle some additional sliced almonds on top of the batter before baking for a beautiful presentation.
Serving and Storing Your Cherry Almond Bread
Perfect Pairings for Cherry Almond Bread
This Cherry Almond Bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It makes a wonderful accompaniment to a steaming cup of coffee or tea, perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon snack. The sweet-tart cherries and nutty almonds also complement a refreshing glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
When entertaining, this bread can be served as part of a brunch spread, alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and other baked goods. It’s also a lovely addition to a cheese and charcuterie board, pairing beautifully with creamy cheeses, cured meats, and a drizzle of honey.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Cherry Almond Bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 4 days. For longer storage, the bread can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a resealable freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the bread at room temperature before slicing and enjoying.
For make-ahead convenience, you can bake the Cherry Almond Bread in advance and freeze it. Then, simply thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to serve. The bread can also be sliced and frozen individually, making it easy to enjoy a slice at a time.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cherry Almond Bread
Creative Cherry Almond Bread Variations
- Swap out the fresh or frozen cherries for other seasonal fruit, such as diced peaches, blueberries, or raspberries.
- Add a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla for an extra-pronounced almond flavor.
- Sprinkle the top of the batter with a streusel topping made with brown sugar, flour, and more sliced almonds.
- Transform the bread into muffins or mini loaves for individual servings and easy portability.
Making Cherry Almond Bread Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to adjust the baking time as needed, as gluten-free flours can sometimes require a longer baking period.
To make a vegan Cherry Almond Bread, replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute and the eggs with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use unsweetened almond or oat milk in place of the dairy milk.
For a low-carb twist, swap the all-purpose flour for a combination of almond flour and coconut flour. Reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup and consider using a sugar-free sweetener instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned or jarred cherries instead of fresh or frozen?
A: Absolutely! Canned or jarred cherries can work well in this recipe. Just be sure to drain them thoroughly before folding them into the batter.
Q: How long does it take to bake the Cherry Almond Bread?
A: The total baking time for this recipe is 60 minutes. Be sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bread until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Q: Can I make this bread ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! Cherry Almond Bread keeps well for up to 1 week in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer. For best results, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Cherry Almond Bread recipe yields 12 servings. The exact serving size will depend on how you slice the loaf, but this recipe is designed to feed a crowd or provide plenty of leftovers.
Q: What if my bread doesn’t rise properly?
A: If your Cherry Almond Bread doesn’t rise as much as you’d like, it could be due to the baking powder being old or the ingredients not being at room temperature. Make sure your baking powder is fresh, and let your butter, eggs, and milk come to room temperature before starting.
Grandma’s Timeless Cherry Almond Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 75
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Indulge in the delectable flavors of Grandma’s timeless Cherry Almond Bread – a classic recipe that’s been passed down through generations. This moist and flavorful loaf is bursting with juicy cherries and fragrant almonds, making it the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition.
6. Gently fold in the halved cherries and sliced almonds, being careful not to overmix.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
For best results, use fresh or frozen cherries. If using canned cherries, be sure to drain them well before adding to the batter. You can also substitute other types of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, in place of the sliced almonds.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Cherry Almond Bread is a true delight, a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the combination of juicy cherries and crunchy almonds. With its moist, tender crumb and stunning presentation, this bread is sure to become a new family favorite. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of Cherry Almond Bread. Don’t forget to share your creations with us and let us know how it turns out!
