Cherry Bread

A slice of Cherry Bread is a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. This quick bread is bursting with sweet maraschino cherries, making each bite a colorful and tasty experience. Topped with a luscious almond cherry glaze, this recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy coffee dates. The combination of flavors and textures will surely impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: Maraschino cherries provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the soft bread base.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a breakfast item, snack, or dessert; it fits any meal.
• Customizable Glaze: You can easily adjust the glaze to your liking by adding more or less almond extract.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe yields ten servings, making it perfect for potlucks or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Cherry Bread, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

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 maintain the shape of your bread.
• Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients prevents clumping and promotes thorough mixing.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly, which is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture in your Cherry Bread.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Milk
3. Canola oil
4. Egg
5. Almond extract

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt

Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.

Step 4: Prepare Cherries

Drain the maraschino cherries while reserving the juice for later use in the glaze. Coarsely chop the cherries using a food processor or knife, then gently fold them into the batter.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for about 50–60 minutes; check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready! Cool in the pan for ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine:
1. Powdered sugar
2. Melted butter
3. Maraschino cherry juice
4. Almond extract

Whisk until smooth.

Step 7: Glaze Your Bread

Once your Cherry Bread has cooled completely, spread the glaze on top carefully; if done while warm, it may melt off.

Step 8: Serve

Slice your delicious Cherry Bread and enjoy! Store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container; this bread freezes well too.

Enjoy making this delightful Cherry Bread, perfect for any occasion!

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, serving it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet and tart contrast to the cherry flavor.
• Banana Slices: Creamy bananas complement the texture of the cherry bread nicely.

Spread with Cream Cheese

• Cream Cheese Frosting: A smooth layer of cream cheese frosting provides a rich and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with cherry.
• Plain Cream Cheese: For a lighter option, plain cream cheese adds a creamy balance without overwhelming the cherries.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• Almond Cherry Glaze: Drizzle more of the almond cherry glaze over each slice for an extra sweet kick.

Served Warm

• Warm Slices: Enjoying this bread warm brings out its flavors and makes it even more enticing.

How to Perfect Cherry Bread

To ensure your cherry bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Cherries: If possible, fresh cherries can enhance the flavor over maraschino cherries.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done baking.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allowing the bread to cool ensures the glaze doesn’t melt off completely.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Bread

Cherry bread can be paired with various side dishes that complement its sweetness and texture. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and balances sweetness.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory contrast to the sweet cherry flavors.
3. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon pairs wonderfully with sweet baked goods.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the bread.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert lovers, vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess that enhances every bite.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers a savory counterpoint to sweet cherry bread.
7. Fruit Compote: Serve with warm fruit compote for an extra burst of flavor and moisture.
8. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter spreads add protein and nutty richness that pairs well with cherries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Bread can be delightful, but it’s easy to make errors along the way. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Using warm ingredients: Warm milk or oil can affect the texture of your bread. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a tough bread. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not draining the cherries: Excess moisture from the cherries can lead to a soggy bread. Make sure to drain them well before adding.
• Skipping the glaze: The almond cherry glaze adds a wonderful flavor contrast. Don’t skip it for the best taste experience.
• Not checking doneness: Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked or burnt bread. Always use a toothpick to check if it’s done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cherry Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, wrap bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cooking each side for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cherry Bread that may help you during your baking journey.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries in Cherry Bread?

Yes, you can substitute fresh cherries, but they should be pitted and chopped. Fresh cherries will give a different flavor and texture compared to maraschino ones.

How long does it take to bake Cherry Bread?

Cherry Bread typically bakes for 50-60 minutes at 350ºF. Always check with a toothpick for doneness.

Can I make Cherry Bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for delicious results without gluten.

What other flavors pair well with Cherry Bread?

Almond is a classic pairing, but vanilla or even chocolate chips also complement the flavors beautifully.

How do I store leftover Cherry Bread?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Bread is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or using different extracts. Give this recipe a try; its sweet cherry flavor and delightful glaze will surely impress family and friends!

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

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cherry Bread, a quick and easy recipe perfect for any time of day. This moist loaf is packed with sweet maraschino cherries, providing a burst of flavor in every slice. Topped with a rich almond glaze, this bread not only looks stunning but also tastes heavenly. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, it’s sure to impress your family and friends at gatherings or cozy coffee dates.

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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
• 2 jars maraschino cherries
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF and prepare a 9″x5″ loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together sugar, milk, oil, egg, and almond extract until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; fold in chopped drained cherries.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50–60 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick.
6. Cool for ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. For the glaze: whisk powdered sugar, melted butter, cherry juice, and almond extract until smooth; drizzle over cooled bread.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg