As I stood at the counter weighing flour and cracking eggs, the scent of almonds and cherries began to dance in the air, transported me straight to my grandmother’s kitchen. This Almond Cherry Bread is my go-to recipe for transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary that impresses family and friends alike. Not only is it super easy to prepare—but it also captivates with its mouthwatering sweetness and delightful crunch. Perfect for busy mornings or cozy gatherings, this bread is bound to become a staple in your home. Ready to take your baking skills to the next level while filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of homemade goodness? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why is Almond Cherry Bread a Must-Try?
Delightful Flavor Fusion: The sweet tartness of cherries blends beautifully with the nutty essence of almonds, creating an irresistible flavor combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a loaf of this moist Almond Cherry Bread, making it an ideal choice for busy families or novice bakers.
Versatile & Adaptable: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips, spices, or even swapping cherries for other fruits like blueberries to suit your taste!
Perfect for Sharing: This lovely bread not only tastes great but also presents beautifully, making it a showstopper at brunches or family gatherings. Serve it warm with butter or whipped cream for an extra treat!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake a loaf and wrap it up to enjoy later. It stays fresh for days at room temperature, perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks. For more delicious ideas, check out my Butter Jelly Bread and Bruschetta Flatbread Pizza!
Almond Cherry Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the bread; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Powder – Leavening agent that helps the bread rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; use sea salt for a more complex taste.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness; can be reduced or substituted with honey or a sugar alternative for a healthier version.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; can replace with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
- Greek Yogurt – Contributes to moisture and adds a bit of tang; substitute with sour cream or plant-based yogurt.
- Buttermilk – Enhances tenderness and flavor; mix milk with a teaspoon of vinegar as a substitute for buttermilk.
- Melted Butter – Adds richness; use coconut oil for a dairy-free variant.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; use pure vanilla for best results.
- Almond Extract – Amplifies the almond flavor; adjust the amount to taste.
- Cherries – Fresh or canned, they add sweetness and moisture; substitute with frozen cherries (thaw and drain well).
- Sliced Almonds – For topping and added crunch; can be replaced with walnuts or pecans.
For the Glaze
- Confectioner’s Sugar – Adds sweetness to the glaze; can be omitted or replaced with a sugar-free alternative.
- Heavy Cream – Used for the glaze; substitute with milk or plant-based cream for a lighter option.
This Almond Cherry Bread is sure to be a hit in your kitchen, combining delightful flavors with a simple baking process!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Almond Cherry Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper and applying nonstick spray. This ensures your Almond Cherry Bread releases easily after baking. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients to streamline the process, creating a cozy baking environment.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it creates a rich base for your bread. Aim for a well-combined texture that feels luxurious to the touch, providing the perfect foundation for the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting not only ensures a lump-free mix but also aerates the flour, resulting in a light and fluffy loaf. Gradually mixing these dry ingredients into the wet mixture will create a seamless blend, helping you achieve that delightful moist crumb in your Almond Cherry Bread.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a spatula, being careful not to overmix; you want just a few flour streaks remaining to keep your bread tender. This step is critical to prevent the bread from becoming tough. The batter should be slightly lumpy yet cohesive, ready to take on the delicious cherries and almonds.
Step 5: Prepare and Fold in Cherries and Almonds
Pit and chop your fresh cherries, or if using canned, make sure to drain them well. Toss the cherries in a bit of cornstarch to prevent them from sinking during baking. Fold these cherries and the sliced almonds gently into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overworking the mixture, maintaining the integrity of the Almond Cherry Bread’s texture.
Step 6: Pour and Smooth Batter
Pour the prepared batter into the lined loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake. To add a touch of flair, sprinkle reserved cherries and sliced almonds on top of the batter for an appealing finish. This little touch elevates your Almond Cherry Bread, making it look as delightful as it tastes.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your Almond Cherry Bread in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, indicating the bread is perfectly baked. If it starts to brown too much on top, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last minutes of baking.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it gently to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures that the texture remains light and fluffy. Enjoy the warm, aromatic scent of the Almond Cherry Bread wafting through your kitchen as you let it cool.
Step 9: Whisk the Glaze
While the bread cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the confectioner’s sugar, almond extract, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. This adds a sweet finish to your bread. Once the Almond Cherry Bread has completely cooled, lavishly drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade beautifully down the sides.
Expert Tips for Almond Cherry Bread
-
Check Freshness: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise; expired baking powder can lead to a dense loaf.
-
Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing your batter after adding dry ingredients to keep the Almond Cherry Bread tender and fluffy.
-
Chill the Cherries: If using fresh cherries, chill them before adding to the batter; this helps maintain their shape and prevents sinking.
-
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before glazing for a beautiful finish that won’t run; patience pays off in presentation!
-
Taste Adjustment: Adjust the almond extract to taste; it can be quite potent, so start with less and add more if needed!
Make Ahead Options
These Almond Cherry Bread loaves are perfect for those who like to meal prep! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days; just remember to keep the mixture in a cool, dry place. Additionally, you can pit and chop the cherries, tossing them with cornstarch, and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet ingredients with your prepped dry mix, fold in the cherries, and proceed with the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked Almond Cherry Bread with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made from scratch!
Almond Cherry Bread Variations
Feel free to experiment with this recipe and make it your own, bringing your unique touch to this delicious bread!
-
Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This keeps the delightful moistness intact.
-
Fruit Swaps: Try substituting cherries with blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist. Each fruit adds its own burst of flavor!
-
Nut Variations: Switch out the sliced almonds for chopped pecans or walnuts. Both options provide unique textures and a different nutty profile.
-
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free option, replace Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt and use coconut oil instead of butter. This works beautifully without sacrificing flavor.
-
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor. This little change can transport your taste buds straight to a cozy café!
-
Sweet Add-In: For a sweet surprise, fold in a handful of chocolate chips before baking. The melted chocolate with cherries is a heavenly combination!
-
Heat Lovers: If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider mixing in some finely chopped jalapeños. This unexpected twist creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
-
For Glaze Lovers: Drizzle a flavored glaze made with orange juice instead of almond extract for a bright, citrusy celebration. The fruity notes elevate the overall experience!
Feel inspired to whip up other delightful treats like my sweet Maraschino Cherry Chocolate or try out my flavorful Cherry Tomato Bruschetta!
How to Store and Freeze Almond Cherry Bread
-
Room Temperature: Store wrapped almond cherry bread in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping it fresh and soft.
-
Fridge: If you prefer to extend your bread’s life, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent dryness.
-
Freezer: To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before enjoying!
-
Reheating: To enjoy your almond cherry bread warm, simply microwave slices for 15-20 seconds. This brings back its delightful moist texture and aroma.
What to Serve with Almond Cherry Bread
As you bask in the delightful aroma of your freshly baked Almond Cherry Bread, it’s the perfect time to think about what to serve alongside it to create a comforting and memorable meal.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes add a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the bread, making the meal cozy and fulfilling. The creamy texture complements the bread’s moisture beautifully.
-
Thick Greek Yogurt with Honey: A dollop of tangy yogurt topped with honey provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness, enhancing each bite. Perfect as a breakfast option or as a light dessert.
-
Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad brings a crisp, fresh element to your meal. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the bread, providing a harmonious contrast.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies bring earthiness and a hint of sweetness, pairing marvelously with the almond and cherry flavors. Plus, they add color and nutrition to your plate.
-
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea is the perfect calming drink to enjoy alongside your bread, enhancing the sensory experience with soothing scents and flavors.
-
Chocolate & Cherry Tart: For dessert, this rich tart echoes the flavors of your Almond Cherry Bread and adds a touch of indulgence. The balancing sweetness will leave everyone satisfied and wanting more!
Almond Cherry Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cherries for the Almond Cherry Bread?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for firm, plump ones with a vibrant color. Avoid cherries with dark spots all over or wrinkles, as these can indicate overripeness. If you opt for frozen cherries, make sure they are properly thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in your batter.
What’s the best way to store Almond Cherry Bread?
To keep your Almond Cherry Bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you live in a particularly humid area or want to extend its life, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to wrap it tightly to keep it moist and delicious!
Can I freeze Almond Cherry Bread, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or a freezer bag, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible. Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds to warm it up!
What should I do if my Almond Cherry Bread turns out dense?
If your bread comes out denser than you’d like, there may be a couple of reasons. First, check if your baking powder was fresh; old baking powder doesn’t provide the necessary rise. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter after adding wet and dry ingredients—this can lead to a tough texture. Gently folding the mixtures together helps maintain a light crumb.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Yes! This Almond Cherry Bread contains eggs and dairy, so it’s not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies. You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based yogurt and cream for a dairy-free version. Always double-check for any nut allergies as well, especially since almonds feature prominently in this recipe!
How long can I keep the glazed Almond Cherry Bread?
The glazed bread should be enjoyed within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture. If you plan to store it longer, consider adding the glaze just before serving. The glaze can make the bread soggy over time, so keeping them separate helps maintain that delightful finish!
Irresistibly Moist Almond Cherry Bread for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper and applying nonstick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and sugar until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
- Pit and chop fresh cherries, toss in cornstarch, and fold into the batter along with sliced almonds.
- Pour the batter into the lined loaf pan and smooth the top. Optionally, sprinkle reserved cherries and almonds on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the bread cools, whisk together the confectioner's sugar, almond extract, and heavy cream for the glaze.
- Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the bread.
Leave a Reply