Almond Cherry Bread

Introduction to Almond Cherry Bread

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delightful in the kitchen. That’s why I’m excited to share with you my Almond Cherry Bread recipe! It’s a beautifully moist bread that blends the sweet tartness of cherries with the nutty richness of almonds.

This delectable creation isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s the perfect solution for a busy day or a delightful addition to any gathering. Your loved ones will be charmed by both its flavor and the lovely aroma wafting through the house.

Why You’ll Love This Almond Cherry Bread

This Almond Cherry Bread is a delightful combination of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for those hectic mornings or cozy family gatherings.

The moist texture and sweet almond glaze elevate it from just a simple quick bread to a pastry that feels like a treat.

Plus, who can resist the beautiful presentation of cherries and almonds on top?

Ingredients for Almond Cherry Bread

When it comes to creating this Almond Cherry Bread, the ingredients you choose make all the difference. Each one plays a vital role in crafting this delectable treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Greek yogurt: This adds moisture and a subtle tang. You can substitute regular plain yogurt if needed.
• Buttermilk: It enhances the flavor and tenderness of the bread. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding a squeeze of lemon juice to regular milk.
• Unsalted butter: It adds richness to the bread. Make sure it’s melted for a smoother batter.
• Eggs: These provide structure and moisture. Room temperature eggs work best for baking.
• Vanilla extract: For a warm, sweet flavor. A splash of almond extract can also amplify the nutty notes.
• Almond extract: The star of this bread! It gives that distinct almond flavor which pairs perfectly with the cherries.
• White granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the tartness of the cherries. You can use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• All-purpose flour: The main body of the bread. For gluten-free dieters, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be a great alternative.
• Baking powder: This helps the bread rise to a delightful fluffiness. Check the expiration date for best results!
• Salt: Just a pinch brings out all the flavors.
• Cherries: Fresh or canned, pitted and chopped. Their tartness is a beautiful contrast to the sweetness of the glaze. If using canned, make sure to drain them well.
• Corn starch: Coating the cherries with cornstarch prevents them from sinking to the bottom. It’s a simple trick that really helps!
• Sliced almonds: These not only add flavor but also create a lovely crunch on top. Feel free to toast them for an extra depth.
• For Almond Glaze: Confectioner’s sugar, cream, and almond extract come together to create a sweet finishing touch. The glaze can be adjusted for thickness by varying the amount of cream used.

For the exact measurements of each ingredient, please scroll to the bottom of the article where you will find a printable version of the recipe.

How to Make Almond Cherry Bread

Making Almond Cherry Bread is simpler than you might think!

With a few easy steps, you’ll have a delightful loaf that will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma.

Let’s get started!

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First things first, let’s get that oven ready!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (that’s about 177°C for my metric friends).

While the oven warms up, grab an 8 ½-inch loaf pan.

Line it with parchment paper, allowing some paper to hang over the edges for easy removal later.

Then, spray the sides with nonstick baking spray. This simple step ensures your bread releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, let’s bring the wet ingredients together!

Start by cracking two large eggs into the bowl—go ahead, it’s an egg-cellent time!

Add in your Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and sugar.

Beat this mixture on medium speed for about two minutes.

You want the eggs well beaten and everything nicely combined.

The creamy texture at this stage sets you up for a moist bread!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the dry ingredients.

You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

Take a moment to sift these into a bowl to avoid any lumps.

Then, gently incorporate the dry mix into the wet mixture.

Beat on medium speed for about a minute until everything is well blended.

This is where the magic of the bread starts to come together!

Step 4: Prepare Cherries and Almonds

Now, let’s take care of our cherries!

If using fresh cherries, pit and chop them into quarters.

For canned cherries, make sure to drain and chop them as well.

Toss the chopped cherries with a tablespoon of cornstarch.

This helps keep them suspended in the batter instead of sinking to the bottom.

Next, gently fold the cherries and sliced almonds into the batter.

Reserve a handful of both for topping the bread later!

Step 5: Assemble the Batter

With the cherries and almonds mixed in, it’s time to transfer the batter.

Pour it into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top.

Sprinkle the reserved cherries and almonds over the top for an eye-catching presentation.

I promise, it looks as gorgeous as it tastes!

Step 6: Bake!

Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and set the timer for 50 to 60 minutes.

The smell will be incredible as it bakes!

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread.

If it comes out clean, your beautiful almond cherry bread is ready!

Then, carefully remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare the Almond Glaze

For the finishing touch, we need the almond glaze!

In a large mixing bowl, combine confectioner’s sugar, a tablespoon of almond extract, and about 1 to 2 tablespoons of cream.

Whisk until smooth and creamy.

You can adjust the thickness by adding more cream or sugar to your liking.

Once your bread has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top.

This sweet addition ties everything together, making each bite simply irresistible!

Tips for Success

• Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch on the cherries; it really helps keep them suspended in the batter.
• Using a toothpick to test for doneness is key—wait for a clean pick to ensure your bread is perfectly baked!
• Let the bread cool completely before glazing for a beautiful finish.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep the moisture locked in!

Equipment Needed

• Loaf pan: An 8 ½-inch pan works best, but you can use any loaf pan you have.
• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and another for dry will make mixing easier.
• Electric mixer: A hand mixer speeds up the mixing process, but a whisk will do fine too.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results.
• Parchment paper: This helps with easy removal of your baked bread from the pan.

Variations of Almond Cherry Bread

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delightful contrast to the cherries!
• Nutty Overload: Mix in additional nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Fruit Medley: Swap out cherries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries. The flavor combinations are endless!
• Spiced Delight: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that’s especially delightful in cooler months.

Serving Suggestions for Almond Cherry Bread

• Enjoy with Coffee: A warm slice pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast treat.
• Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches for a refreshing complement.
• Presentation Tip: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a lovely, finishing touch that enhances visual appeal.

FAQs about Almond Cherry Bread

I’ve gathered some common questions about Almond Cherry Bread to help you bake this delicious treat confidently. Let’s dive into the juicy details!

Can I make this Almond Cherry Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the bread ahead of time and store it wrapped at room temperature. It actually tastes even better the next day!

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
A toothpick is your best friend here! Insert it into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your Almond Cherry Bread is ready to shine. If there’s wet batter, give it a few more minutes.

Can I use frozen cherries in this recipe?
Yes! Frozen cherries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter. This way, they won’t add extra moisture to the loaf.

What can I serve with Almond Cherry Bread?
This bread is delightful on its own, but you could pair it with a dollop of whipped cream, a side of yogurt, or even a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra special treat, serve it warm with butter.

How should I store my Almond Cherry Bread?
Once cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment—just pop them in the microwave for a quick treat!

Final Thoughts

Baking this Almond Cherry Bread has filled my kitchen with warmth and joy.

It’s not just a recipe; it’s a way to create cherished moments with loved ones.

With every slice, you’ll enjoy the delightful interplay of sweet cherries and nutty almonds.

Whether shared over coffee with friends or savored alone during a quiet afternoon, this bread brings a sprinkle of happiness to any day.

I hope it brings as much delight to your home as it has to mine.

Embrace the joy of baking and create your own sweet memories!

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