Cherry Almond Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cherry Almond Bread stands out for its unique blend of fruity and nutty flavors, enhanced by both vanilla and almond extracts. It’s incredibly easy to make, using pantry staples and a jar of maraschino cherries, which add a delightful pop of color and sweetness. The bread stays moist for days and can be dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Whether you’re baking for family or guests, this recipe is sure to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ teaspoons almond extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 (8-ounce) jar maraschino cherries, chopped (reserve the juice)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, dust the bread with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes one loaf, approximately 10-12 slices.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 55-65 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts: Stir in ½ cup chopped almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Cherry juice glaze: Mix reserved cherry juice with powdered sugar to make a simple glaze to drizzle over the top.
• Use fresh cherries: Substitute maraschino cherries with fresh or frozen pitted cherries for a less sweet, more natural flavor.
• Chocolate chips: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a richer, indulgent bread.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

What can I substitute for almond extract?

You can substitute almond extract with an equal amount of vanilla extract, though the bread will have less of the distinct almond flavor.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, fresh or frozen pitted cherries can be used but may make the bread less sweet and more moist.

Do I need to drain the cherries before adding them?

Cherries should be chopped and drained, but save the juice for an optional glaze or add a little to the batter for extra moisture.

Can this bread be made vegan?

To make it vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based oil and sugar.

How do I prevent cherries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss chopped cherries in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter to help keep them suspended evenly.

Is it necessary to dust with powdered sugar?

No, it’s optional. Powdered sugar adds a decorative touch and a hint of sweetness.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans or a larger pan with adjusted baking time.

How should I slice the bread?

Use a serrated knife to slice gently for clean cuts without crushing the bread.

Can I add other dried fruits?

Yes, dried cranberries or raisins can be added for different flavor variations.

What is the best way to serve Cherry Almond Bread?

Serve it plain or with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite spread for a delicious treat.

Conclusion

Cherry Almond Bread is a delightful treat that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Its moist texture, combined with the sweet cherries and nutty almond aroma, makes it a perfect option for any time of day. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or enjoying it yourself, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation. Give it a try and savor every bite!

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