Easy Almond Cherry Bread
Introduction
This Easy Almond Cherry Bread is a tender, moist loaf bursting with juicy cherries and the nutty aroma of almonds. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both nostalgic and elegant — perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet afternoon treat with coffee. The combination of cherries, almond extract, and a touch of vanilla creates a flavor profile that’s fruity, rich, and irresistible.
Ingredients
Produce
1½ cups cherries (fresh or canned, drained)
Refrigerated
2 large eggs
Baking & Spices
1½ cups all‑purpose flour
1¾ tsp almond extract
1½ tsp baking powder
½ cup confectioner’s sugar
1 tbsp corn starch
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Nuts & Seeds
½ cup almonds (sliced or chopped)
Dairy
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup buttermilk
1 tbsp cream
½ cup Greek yogurt
Instructions
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×5‑inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla and almond extract.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, corn starch, and salt.
Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk and Greek yogurt.
Mix until just combined — avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Add Cherries & Almonds
Gently fold in cherries and almonds.
Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 6: Glaze (Optional)
Mix confectioner’s sugar with cream until smooth.
Drizzle over cooled bread for a sweet finish.
Time & Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
Tips & Tricks
Use fresh cherries for the best flavor, but canned works well if drained thoroughly.
Toast almonds lightly before adding for extra crunch.
For a richer loaf, replace buttermilk with half‑and‑half.
Store bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for up to 2 months.
Variations
Chocolate Cherry Bread: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips.
Coconut Almond Bread: Sprinkle shredded coconut into the batter.
Gluten‑Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten‑free flour blend.
Festive Twist: Add red and green candied cherries for holiday baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with butter or cream cheese.
Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
Slice and wrap for gifting during holidays.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cherries?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
A: Absolutely — bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Yes, reduce granulated sugar to ½ cup for a less sweet loaf.
Conclusion
This Easy Almond Cherry Bread is a delightful balance of fruity cherries, nutty almonds, and tender crumb. Whether enjoyed plain or glazed, it’s a versatile recipe that works for breakfast, dessert, or gifting.