There’s a certain charm that comes with baking at home, especially when the sweet scent of Almond Cherry Bread fills the kitchen. I first fell in love with this delightful recipe on a lazy Sunday afternoon, looking for something that would bring a touch of elegance to my family’s brunch. The combination of tart cherries and nutty almonds not only looks stunning but tastes absolutely divine.
Imagine slicing into a warm loaf, revealing that vibrant red fruit nestled in a soft, buttery bread, all drizzled with a glossy almond glaze. Each bite is a balance of flavors that keeps you reaching for just one more piece. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, this bread is sure to impress.
With minimal effort, you can whip up this delightful treat in just over an hour. Plus, it’s versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Almond Cherry Bread unforgettable?
Irresistible flavors: The fusion of tart cherries and nutty almonds creates a vibrant, mouthwatering experience that appeals to all taste buds.
Quick and easy: With just 20 minutes of prep and an hour in the oven, you can enjoy this homemade delight without a fuss.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s brunch, dessert, or a cozy snack, this bread fits right in, satisfying cravings at every meal.
Showstopper presentation: The glossy almond glaze transforms it into a stunning centerpiece, making it perfect for gatherings.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Your friends and family will be coming back for seconds, making this recipe a go-to for entertaining.
Don’t miss out on these delightful bites; it’s time to bake your own unforgettable loaf!
Almond Cherry Bread Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this delectable treat that’s sure to warm your heart!
For the Batter
- Greek yogurt – adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor while keeping the bread moist.
- Buttermilk – enhances the richness and gives the bread a subtle tang.
- Unsalted butter, melted – provides a rich, buttery taste that enhances overall flavor.
- Large eggs – bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread’s rise.
- Vanilla extract – adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Almond extract – a key ingredient that enhances the almond flavor in the bread.
- White granulated sugar – sweetens the bread, balancing the tartness from the cherries.
- All-purpose flour – forms the structure of the bread for a fluffy texture.
- Baking powder – helps the bread rise, creating a light and airy crumb.
- Salt – enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
For the Cherries and Nuts
- Cherries, fresh or canned – provides a burst of flavor and a beautiful pop of color; make sure to pit them!
- Corn starch – helps prevent the cherries from sinking in the batter, ensuring they stay beautifully distributed.
- Sliced almonds – adds a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty flavor this bread is known for.
For the Almond Glaze
- Confectioner’s sugar – the base for a smooth glaze that adds sweetness and shine.
- Cream – helps achieve the perfect pouring consistency for a lovely drizzle.
- Almond extract – a dash in the glaze ties all the flavors together beautifully—a must for almond lovers!
How to Make Almond Cherry Bread
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8 ½-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and spray the sides lightly with nonstick baking spray for easy removal after baking.
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Mix together the eggs, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted butter, almond extract, vanilla extract, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed for a few minutes until everything is well combined and the eggs are fluffy.
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Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the batter, beating on medium speed for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
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Prepare the cherries by pitting and quartering them. Toss the cherry pieces in cornstarch to help them stay suspended in the batter. Fold the cherries and sliced almonds into the batter gently, reserving some for the top.
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Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the remaining cherries and almonds on top to create a beautiful finishing touch.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the bread to cool in the loaf pan for a few minutes, then carefully remove it and place it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
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For the almond glaze: In a large mixing bowl, combine the confectioner’s sugar, almond extract, and cream. Whisk until smooth, adjusting the consistency by adding more sugar if you prefer a thicker glaze. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the cooled bread for a gorgeous finish.
Optional: Garnish with additional sliced almonds for an extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Almond Cherry Bread Variations
Embrace your creativity with these fun twists that elevate your Almond Cherry Bread experience!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free option everyone can enjoy. It’s just as fluffy!
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Fruit Switch: Replace cherries with raspberries or blueberries for a fresh take, bursting with flavor and color that’s simply irresistible.
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Nutty Variety: Use chopped walnuts or pecans instead of sliced almonds to introduce a different crunch and an earthy depth to the bread.
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Chocolate Lover’s: Stir in a cup of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cherries. Who can resist chocolate?
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Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a hint of warmth that will cozy up any chilly day.
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Zesty Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to brighten up the flavors, offering a refreshing contrast to the sweet cherries.
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Vegan Option: Substitute Greek yogurt and buttermilk with plant-based yogurt and almond milk, and replace eggs with flaxseed meal for a vegan-friendly variation.
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Caramel Drizzle: Top your bread with a drizzle of caramel sauce instead of the almond glaze for a sweet and indulgent finish that’s perfect for dessert!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your own signature loaf!
What to Serve with Almond Cherry Bread?
Pair your delightful Almond Cherry Bread with these scrumptious options that will turn each slice into a memorable meal.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing brightness, balancing the rich flavors of the bread.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Melting ice cream over warm bread is a decadent treat that creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup perfectly complements the sweetness of the bread while enhancing its aromatic notes, making for a cozy pairing.
- Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream drizzled over a slice invites indulgence, adding creaminess to each bite.
- Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey enhances the sweetness while adding a beautiful shine that makes each slice irresistible.
For a lovely brunch, serve each slice alongside a small bowl of whipped cream and hopeful conversations about the next time you’ll bake this beauty again!
Expert Tips for Almond Cherry Bread
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Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision; too much flour can lead to a dense bread.
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Fresh or Canned Cherries: If using canned cherries, ensure they are drained well to avoid excess moisture affecting the batter.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Using room temperature eggs helps the batter come together smoothly and improves the rise of your Almond Cherry Bread.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are blended. Overmixing can lead to tough bread—aim for a moist, tender loaf!
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Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully on the wire rack before glazing; this prevents the glaze from melting into the bread.
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Customize It: Feel free to add chocolate chips or substitute other fruits for a personalized twist—just make sure they’re balanced for flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Almond Cherry Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, which helps keep the flavors fresh and vibrant. Simply mix all the wet ingredients and dry ingredients as described, then fold in the cherries and almonds. When you’re ready to bake, pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and top it with the reserved fruits and nuts, and bake as usual. This way, you can enjoy a warm, freshly baked loaf with just a little finishing effort—ideal for last-minute gatherings or cozy family breakfasts!
How to Store and Freeze Almond Cherry Bread
Room Temperature: Store leftover Almond Cherry Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Fridge: If you prefer, refrigerate the bread for an extended shelf life, lasting up to a week. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze slices of almond cherry bread in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds. This revives the lovely flavors and aromas, just like freshly baked!
Almond Cherry Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for Almond Cherry Bread?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or canned cherries for this delightful bread. If using fresh, look for firm cherries that are bright red with no dark spots. If you opt for canned, ensure they are well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture.
How should I store Almond Cherry Bread after baking?
Very good question! Keep your leftover Almond Cherry Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge—it’ll stay fresh for up to a week.
Can I freeze Almond Cherry Bread, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze Almond Cherry Bread, slice it first and arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the slices to a zip-top freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It will stay good for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the toaster.
Why is my Almond Cherry Bread dense or sunken in the middle?
Common troubleshooting! If your bread turns out dense, it might be due to too much flour; make sure to measure accurately. For sunken middles, ensure that your baking powder is fresh and that you don’t overmix the batter, as that can affect its rise. Aim to mix just until blended!
Is Almond Cherry Bread safe for people with nut allergies?
Great to clarify! Since this recipe uses almond extract and sliced almonds, it’s not suitable for those with nut allergies. For a nut-free version, you can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract and skip the almonds altogether—still delicious!
How can I make a thicker almond glaze?
No problem! If you prefer a thicker almond glaze, simply add more confectioner’s sugar—gradually incorporating it until you reach your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can then add a splash more cream to loosen it up. Enjoy glazing!
Delicious Almond Cherry Bread That Everyone Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8 ½-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and spray the sides lightly with nonstick baking spray.
- Mix together the eggs, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted butter, almond extract, vanilla extract, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed for a few minutes until everything is well combined.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the batter, beating on medium speed.
- Prepare the cherries by pitting and quartering them. Toss the cherry pieces in cornstarch. Fold the cherries and sliced almonds into the batter gently.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top and sprinkle the remaining cherries and almonds on top.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool.
- For the almond glaze: Combine the confectioner’s sugar, almond extract, and cream in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and drizzle over cooled bread.
