Cherry Bread

A delightful treat for any occasion, Cherry Bread offers a unique flavor experience with juicy maraschino cherries in every bite. This quick bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack. With its easy preparation and the delicious almond cherry glaze topping, this recipe is sure to be a hit among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This Cherry Bread comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days when you need a sweet treat.
• Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or a dessert after dinner.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cherries and almond extract creates a mouthwatering taste that will leave you wanting more.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a loaf to share at gatherings or potlucks; everyone will love it!
• Freezer Friendly: Make extra loaves and freeze them for later enjoyment without losing flavor!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×5 loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor (optional)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf Pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps the bread maintain its shape.
• Mixing Bowls: Having different sizes allows you to mix wet and dry ingredients separately for optimal results.
• Wire Rack: Cooling on a wire rack prevents moisture from building up at the bottom of the bread.

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. Spray a 9×5 loaf pan with cooking spray or grease it with shortening, then dust with flour.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, milk, canola oil, egg, and almond extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Prepare Cherries

Drain the maraschino cherries while reserving their juice for later. Coarsely chop them using either a food processor or knife. Gently fold these chopped cherries into your batter.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 50–60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, reserved cherry juice, and almond extract until smooth.

Step 7: Glaze the Bread

Once your Cherry Bread is cooled completely, spread the glaze on top. If applied while warm, it may melt off.

Step 8: Serve

Slice your Cherry Bread and enjoy! Store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container; this sweet treat also freezes well for future enjoyment.

This recipe yields approximately ten servings of delicious Cherry Bread that everyone will adore!

How to Serve Cherry Bread

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

With Fresh Fruit

• Strawberries: Serve with sliced fresh strawberries for a vibrant and juicy contrast.
• Bananas: Ripe bananas add creaminess and natural sweetness alongside the cherry flavors.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds lightness and enhances the dessert aspect of the bread.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider infusing the whipped cream with almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

As French Toast

• Cherry Bread French Toast: Dip slices in an egg mixture and cook on a skillet for a decadent breakfast option. Top with maple syrup or powdered sugar.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the cherry bread perfectly, enhancing its sweetness.
• Cherry Sorbet: For a fruitier option, serve with cherry sorbet to double down on the cherry experience.

How to Perfect Cherry Bread

Getting the perfect cherry bread involves some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your loaf turns out delicious every time.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for each ingredient to achieve the right texture and taste.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense bread.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh maraschino cherries will add better flavor and moisture compared to older ones.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Cool Before Glazing: Let the bread cool completely before adding glaze to prevent it from running off.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Bread

Pairing side dishes with cherry bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some options that work wonderfully together.

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, balancing the sweetness of cherry bread.
2. Granola: Crunchy granola provides texture and makes for a wholesome breakfast pairing.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the bread.
4. Nut Butter: Almond or cashew butter spread on warm slices offers a nutty contrast that complements cherries well.
5. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese enhance flavors and create a sophisticated brunch option.
6. Herbal Tea: A cup of herbal tea provides warmth and pairs nicely without overwhelming the dish’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Bread can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls.

• Bold mixing technique: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough texture. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy bread.
• Bold ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can affect how the bread rises. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Bold measuring flour: Incorrectly measuring flour can ruin the recipe. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Bold cherry prep: Not draining cherries properly may make the bread too wet. Always drain and chop maraschino cherries before adding them to the batter.
• Bold baking time: Opening the oven door too often can affect baking time. Check your bread only near the end of the suggested baking time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Bread in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Make sure it is completely cooled before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Cherry Bread

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label and date your containers to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Cherry Bread

• Bold oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF, wrap the bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Bold microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Bold stovetop: Heat slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cherry Bread?

Cherry Bread is a sweet quick bread made with maraschino cherries, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used, but ensure they are pitted and chopped finely before adding to the batter.

How do I customize my Cherry Bread?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swap out almond extract for vanilla extract according to your taste preferences.

Is Cherry Bread suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This bread stores well and is great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Can I make this Cherry Bread gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Bread is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can enjoy it as breakfast or dessert, and there are many ways to customize it based on your taste. Try adding nuts or different extracts to make it uniquely yours!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cherry Bread

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

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Description

Cherry Bread is the perfect sweet treat that brings together the delightful flavors of maraschino cherries and a luscious almond glaze. This quick bread is not only easy to prepare, making it ideal for breakfast or dessert, but it’s also versatile enough to enjoy as a snack any time of day. Each slice offers a moist and tender crumb, packed with juicy cherries that burst with flavor in every bite. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Whether served fresh out of the oven or enjoyed later, Cherry Bread is sure to become a favorite among family and friends!

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Ingredients

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• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup 2% milk
• 1/2 cup canola oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 jars maraschino cherries
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Grease a 9"x5" loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix sugar, milk, canola oil, egg, and almond extract until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
4. Drain and chop the maraschino cherries, then fold them into the batter.
5. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, reserved cherry juice, and almond extract until smooth.
8. Once your Cherry Bread is cooled completely, spread the glaze on top.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 26mg