Cherry Bread

A delightful treat for any occasion, Cherry Bread offers a burst of flavor in every bite. This quick bread is not only easy to make but also perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. The sweetness of maraschino cherries paired with a rich almond glaze makes it a standout choice for gatherings or a cozy afternoon at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of maraschino cherries and almond extract creates a flavor profile that’s both sweet and nutty.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this Cherry Bread warm, toasted, or topped with your favorite spreads. It’s great for breakfast or as an afternoon treat.
• Perfect for Sharing: Slice it up and share with friends or family; its vibrant color and taste make it an appealing choice for gatherings.
• Freezes Well: Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the freezer—perfect for unexpected guests or cravings!

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Cherry Bread, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray or shortening

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: A good quality loaf pan helps in achieving even baking and the perfect shape for your Cherry Bread.
• Mixing bowls: Using different sizes allows you to separate wet and dry ingredients easily, ensuring proper mixing without mess.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending ingredients quickly and thoroughly, giving your batter a light texture.

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Ingredients

A simple quick bread with maraschino cherries in every bite. Don’t forget the almond cherry glaze on top!

For the Bread

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
• 1/2 cup 2% milk (4 ounces)
• 1/2 cup canola oil (or vegetable or melted coconut oil) (4 ounces)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract) (5 grams)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (260 grams)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (5 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (3 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 grams)
• 2 jars maraschino cherries (10 ounces each)

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar (130 grams)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (14 grams)
• 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice (30 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (2 grams)

How to Make Cherry Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with cooking spray, or grease it with shortening, then dust with flour.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine the sugar, milk, oil, egg, and almond extract.
2. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
3. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 4: Add Cherries

Drain the maraschino cherries but reserve the juice for later use:
1. Coarsely chop the cherries using a food processor or knife.
2. Gently fold the chopped cherries into the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
1. Bake in preheated oven for 50-60 minutes.
2. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
3. Allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl:
1. Combine powdered sugar, melted butter, cherry juice, and almond extract.
2. Whisk until smooth.

Step 7: Glaze Your Bread

Once cooled:
1. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the bread.
2. Note that glazing while warm will cause it to melt off slightly.

Step 8: Serve Your Cherry Bread

Slice into pieces and serve! Store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Enjoy making this delightful Cherry Bread that brings joy to every meal!

How to Serve Cherry Bread

Cherry bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, it pairs beautifully with different accompaniments.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Sliced Bananas: Add sliced bananas for a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the cherries.

With Spreads

• Cream Cheese: A spread of cream cheese adds richness and balances the sweetness of the cherry bread.
• Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter can provide a nutty flavor that enhances each bite.

With Beverages

• Coffee: Pair your cherry bread with a warm cup of coffee for a comforting breakfast experience.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can make for an excellent afternoon snack alongside cherry bread.

How to Perfect Cherry Bread

To achieve the perfect cherry bread, follow these simple tips. They will enhance the flavor and texture of your baked good.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cherries when possible. This ensures maximum flavor and moisture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep your bread tender and fluffy.
• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the bread is done; it should come out clean from the center.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allowing the bread to cool completely helps the glaze set nicely without melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Bread

Cherry bread pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and tanginess, making it an excellent counterpart.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs provide a savory contrast to sweet cherry bread.
3. Granola Parfait: Layering granola with yogurt and fruit creates a delightful parfait that complements cherry bread.
4. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad can balance the sweetness of cherry bread with fresh flavors.
5. Oven-Baked Bacon or Turkey Sausage: For a heartier meal, serve with crispy bacon or turkey sausage on the side.
6. Cottage Cheese: The mild flavor of cottage cheese pairs well with sweet breads while adding a creamy element.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Cherry Bread to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients – Always check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda. Old leavening agents can lead to a dense bread.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can result in tough bread. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the glaze – The almond cherry glaze adds sweetness and moisture. Don’t overlook this crucial step; it enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Not measuring accurately – Baking is precise. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with flour and sugar.
• Ignoring cooling time – Let your Cherry Bread cool before slicing. This ensures cleaner slices and helps retain moisture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Bread in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Bread

• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cherry Bread

• Oven – Preheat to 350ºF, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on a plate for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cherry Bread.

What can I substitute for maraschino cherries in Cherry Bread?

You can use fresh or frozen cherries, chopped finely, or even dried cherries soaked in juice for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Cherry Bread gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Can I add nuts to my Cherry Bread?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or almonds complement the flavors of the cherries beautifully.

How long does Cherry Bread last at room temperature?

Cherry Bread stays fresh for about 2 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?

Yes! Cherry Bread makes an excellent breakfast option, especially with coffee or tea.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or experimenting with different extracts. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for breakfast or dessert!