Cherry Almond Bread: A Comforting Homemade Delight

Growing up, the aroma of freshly baked bread always filled our home on Sunday mornings. But there was one loaf that stood out above the rest – my grandma’s famous Cherry Almond Bread. The sweet, fruity scent would waft through the halls, beckoning us to the kitchen, where we’d find her carefully placing the golden loaf on the cooling rack. As I’d take that first warm, buttery bite, I’d be transported back to simpler times, surrounded by the love and comfort of family.

It’s that same nostalgic feeling that I hope to recreate with this Cherry Almond Bread recipe. It’s a true labor of love, but the end result is so worth it. The combination of tart cherries, crunchy almonds, and a tender crumb is simply unbeatable. This bread has become a staple in my household, whether I’m baking it for a cozy weekend breakfast or bringing it to a potluck gathering. No matter the occasion, it always steals the show.

Why This Cherry Almond Bread Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Cherry Almond Bread

What sets this Cherry Almond Bread apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the thoughtfully selected ingredients and the care taken during the baking process. By using a combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda, you’ll achieve a light and fluffy crumb that perfectly complements the juicy cherries and crunchy almonds. The addition of just the right amount of salt brings out the natural sweetness of the other components, creating a truly harmonious flavor profile.

But the real secret lies in the technique. Properly creaming the butter and sugar is essential for achieving that signature tender and moist texture. And by carefully folding in the cherries and almonds, you’ll ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the loaf, giving you a delightful surprise in every bite. With a little attention to detail, you’ll end up with a Cherry Almond Bread that’s simply irresistible.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Cherry Almond Bread, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and a delicate crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise and creates a light, airy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a subtle lift and tenderness to the crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the other ingredients.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Contributes richness and a tender mouthfeel.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps create a golden crust.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a delightful aromatic note.
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped: The star of the show, adding a burst of tart flavor.
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds: Lends a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re on your way to baking up a loaf of Cherry Almond Bread that will have your family and friends begging for the recipe.

Step-by-Step Cherry Almond Bread Instructions

Preparing Your Cherry Almond Bread

Preheating your oven and gathering your ingredients is the first step in this 70-minute baking adventure. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Set this aside for later.

1- In a large mixing bowl, cream the 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2- Beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Then stir in the 1/2 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3- Gradually fold the dry ingredients from the medium bowl into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4- Gently fold in the 1 cup of chopped cherries and 1/2 cup of chopped toasted almonds, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6- Bake for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use room-temperature ingredients: Bringing the butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature before baking will help them incorporate more easily, resulting in a smoother, more cohesive batter.
2. Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense, tough crumb. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
3. Chop the cherries and almonds evenly: Ensuring the cherries and almonds are all roughly the same size will help them distribute throughout the bread more evenly.
4. Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the bread during the last 10 minutes of baking. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
5. Allow the bread to cool completely: Resist the urge to slice into the bread right away. Letting it cool fully on a wire rack will help the crumb set and prevent the texture from becoming gummy.

Serving and Storing Your Cherry Almond Bread

Perfect Pairings for Cherry Almond Bread

This Cherry Almond Bread is a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a cozy weekend breakfast, serve it with a steaming cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk. The nutty, fruity flavors also make it a delightful accompaniment to a mid-afternoon tea or coffee break. If you’re looking to turn it into a more substantial dessert, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.

This recipe yields 10 slices, making it the perfect size for sharing at a potluck or family gathering. Wrap individual slices in parchment paper or foil for a portable on-the-go snack. The combination of sweet cherries, crunchy almonds, and a tender crumb will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Cherry Almond Bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored for later enjoyment. To keep your bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer-term storage, the bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let the bread thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or reheat it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

This Cherry Almond Bread also makes an excellent make-ahead option. Bake the loaf a day or two in advance, allow it to cool completely, and then store it as directed above. This way, you can have a delicious homemade treat ready to go whenever the craving strikes.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cherry Almond Bread

Creative Cherry Almond Bread Variations

While the classic Cherry Almond Bread is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this recipe. For a festive twist, try adding a touch of almond extract to the batter or swirling in a layer of cherry preserves before baking. You could also experiment with different types of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to complement the cherries.

In the summer, consider using fresh, juicy cherries for an even more vibrant flavor. Conversely, in the colder months, frozen cherries work beautifully to capture that same delightful taste. For a seasonal variation, you could incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a touch of orange zest to create a cozy, autumnal vibe.

Making Cherry Almond Bread Diet-Friendly

If you’re looking to make this Cherry Almond Bread a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so be sure to keep an eye on the loaf as it bakes.

For a vegan adaptation, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan margarine. Instead of eggs, you can use a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes). And in place of the milk, try using a non-dairy milk of your choice, such as almond or oat milk.

To reduce the carb content, you can experiment with using a sugar substitute, like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, in place of the granulated sugar. Just be sure to adjust the quantities to achieve the desired level of sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen?
A: Yes, you can use canned cherries for this recipe. Just be sure to drain them well and chop them before folding them into the batter.

Q: How long does it take to bake the Cherry Almond Bread?
A: This Cherry Almond Bread has a total baking time of 55 minutes. The prep time is 15 minutes, so the total time to make this recipe is 70 minutes.

Q: Can I freeze this bread?
A: Absolutely! Cherry Almond Bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: How many slices does this recipe make?
A: This Cherry Almond Bread recipe yields 10 slices, making it a great size for sharing with family and friends.

Q: What if my cherries are too tart or sour?
A: If your cherries are on the tart side, you can try reducing the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe by 2-3 tablespoons. This will help balance the sweetness and acidity.

Print

Conclusion

This Cherry Almond Bread is a true labor of love, but the end result is so worth it. The combination of tart cherries, crunchy almonds, and a tender, buttery crumb is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy weekend breakfast or bringing it to a potluck gathering, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

I hope this Cherry Almond Bread recipe brings you the same sense of nostalgia and comfort that it does for me. The aroma of the freshly baked loaf, the satisfying texture, and the burst of fruity, nutty flavor in every bite – it’s a true delight for the senses. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven and get ready to bake up a little piece of heaven!