Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe with Fresh Cherries and Glaze is a delightful treat that beautifully combines the sweet and tart flavors of fresh cherries with the nutty aroma of almond. The warm, comforting scent of this bread is enough to evoke fond memories of family gatherings and cherished moments spent in the kitchen. This mouthwatering recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a step-by-step guide to ensure even novice bakers can whip it up with confidence. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a special occasion, Almond Cherry Bread is sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients
To make this scrumptious Easy Almond Cherry Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour, plus 1 tablespoon for cherries: This forms the base of our bread, giving it a lovely rise and fluffy texture.
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread to perfection and balances the tartness of the cherries.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise, creating a light and airy crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt: Enhances the flavors of the bread and balances the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Provides moisture and richness, ensuring a tender loaf.
- 1/2 cup (120 g) plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds creaminess and a delightful tang to the bread.
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) whole milk: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Introduces a rich, buttery flavor to the bread.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses sweetness and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: Enhances the almond flavor, providing depth and richness.
- 1 1/2 cups (225 g) fresh cherries, pitted and halved or quartered: Fresh and juicy, they add vibrancy and flavor.
- 1/3 cup (30 g) sliced almonds: Offers crunch and nutty undertones on top.
- 3/4 cup (90 g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze for a lovely finishing touch.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk: Thins out the glaze for easy drizzling.
- 1/8 teaspoon almond extract: More almond flavor to enhance the glaze.
- Pinch of fine salt: Brings all the flavors together in the glaze.
Cooking Time & Tips For Easy Almond Cherry Bread
Making Easy Almond Cherry Bread is simple and can be done in under two hours, making it a fantastic quick-bake option. The preparation time is about 20 minutes, followed by a baking time of 55-65 minutes. This mixture offers a beautiful contrast between quick preparation and a slow, enjoyable baking process, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.
To achieve success with this recipe, follow these practical tips:
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially eggs and dairy, for better moisture distribution in the batter.
- For optimal cherry flavor and texture, take care to pat the cherries dry before tossing them in flour to prevent sinking during baking.
- Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the wet ingredients to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Step-by-Step Directions
Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan and lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This will facilitate easy removal of the bread later.
Next, pat the pitted cherries dry to remove any excess moisture and then toss them with 1 tablespoon of flour. Set them aside while you prepare the batter.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This mixture should be light and airy, ensuring an even rise in your bread.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), whole milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Be sure to blend these ingredients well, as they provide moisture and flavor to the bread.
Now, gently add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay! This is where you’ll fold in your coated cherries, gently combining them into the batter as you do so.
Spread the delicious batter into your prepared pan and sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top. This will create a lovely nutty crunch on your bread once baked.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. This is the perfect indicator that your bread is done and ready to be enjoyed!
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before lifting it onto a wire rack. Here, let it cool completely before applying the glaze.
To prepare the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, almond extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. If your glaze is too thick, add more milk as needed to reach a drizzle-friendly consistency. Finally, drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and let it set before slicing into your decadent creation!
Serving Suggestions & Occasions
Easy Almond Cherry Bread is versatile enough to serve on various occasions. It makes a delightful addition to brunch tables, picnics, or as an afternoon snack alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. Consider topping each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese for an added layer of indulgence.
This bread also shines during special occasions like holidays, birthdays, or gatherings. The vibrant cherries and decorative glaze not only taste amazing but also present beautifully, making it a feast for the eyes as well.
Common Mistakes For Easy Almond Cherry Bread
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense bread; always mix just until combined.
- Not adequately preparing the cherries: Wet cherries can sink; always dry them correctly.
- Not allowing the bread to cool fully: This can result in a soggy texture when slicing.
- Skipping the parchment paper: It ensures ease of removal from the pan and a clean presentation.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Always measure your temperature accurately for consistent baking.
Healthier Alternatives & Variations
For a healthier take on Easy Almond Cherry Bread, consider the following substitutes:
- Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat to add nutrients and fiber.
- Low-Fat Yogurt: Replace regular yogurt with low-fat for a lighter version.
- Natural Sweeteners: Experiment with honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness.
- Add-ins: Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating orange zest or dark chocolate chips for a luscious twist.
- Nut Alternatives: Use walnuts or pecans in place of almonds for a different nutty flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, just ensure they’re thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture.How should I store leftover bread?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stores well and can even be frozen for up to three months.What can I substitute for almond extract?
You can use additional vanilla extract, but it won’t have the same distinct almond flavor.Is this bread suitable for breakfast?
Definitely! Its balance of sweetness and flavor makes it perfect for breakfast.How do I know when the bread is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Conclusion
There’s no better time than now to create a warm, inviting loaf of Easy Almond Cherry Bread with Fresh Cherries and Glaze. The delicious flavors and delightful textures will make your baking experience a joyous one while filling your home with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to gather around. With simple steps to follow and a wealth of flavors to savor, don’t wait—give this recipe a try today, and enjoy a slice of heaven!
Almond Cherry Bread
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 1.75 cups all-purpose flour, plus 1 tablespoon for cherries Forms the base of the bread, giving it a fluffy texture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the bread and balances the tartness of the cherries.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder Helps the bread rise, creating a light crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt Enhances flavors.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature Provides moisture and richness.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream Adds creaminess and tang.
- 1/3 cup whole milk Keeps the bread moist.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled Adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Provides warmth.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract Enhances almond flavor.
- 1.5 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved or quartered Adds vibrancy and flavor.
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds Offers crunch.
Glaze Ingredients
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar Sweetens the glaze.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk Thins out the glaze.
- 1/8 teaspoon almond extract Enhances the glaze.
- a pinch fine salt Brings flavors together.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Pat the cherries dry and toss them with 1 tablespoon of flour. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, yogurt (or sour cream), milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
- Gently add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Fold in the coated cherries.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
Baking
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glazing
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, almond extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust with more milk if necessary.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and let it set before slicing.
