Cherry Bread

A slice of Cherry Bread is a delightful treat that brings the sweetness of maraschino cherries into every bite. This quick bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day. With its simple preparation and the added charm of almond cherry glaze, it’s sure to impress at gatherings or family meals. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging yourself, this Cherry Bread will become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Cherry Bread comes together in no time, making it a great option for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of maraschino cherries and almond extract creates a unique taste that’s both sweet and aromatic.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, with butter, or topped with the delicious almond cherry glaze for an extra treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon snack, this bread fits right in.
• Freezes Well: Make extra loaves and freeze them for later enjoyment; simply thaw and serve!

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Cherry Bread, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×5 loaf pan: Ensures even baking and provides the right shape for your bread.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy combining of wet and dry ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your mixture for a lighter texture.
• Wire rack: Essential for cooling your bread evenly after baking.

Ingredients

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

• 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 the oven to 350ºF. Spray a 9×5 loaf pan with cooking spray, or grease with shortening, then dust with flour.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, stir together:
1. 3/4 cup granulated sugar
2. 1/2 cup 2% milk
3. 1/2 cup canola oil
4. 1 large egg
5. 1 teaspoon almond extract

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking powder
3. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
4. 1/2 teaspoon salt

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

Step 4: Prepare Cherries

Drain the maraschino cherries, reserving the juice for the glaze. Coarsely chop the cherries in a food processor or with a knife. Gently fold the cherries into the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the bread batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center of the bread should come out clean. Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

To make the glaze, combine:
1. 1 cup powdered sugar
2. 1 tablespoon melted butter
3. 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
4. 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Whisk until smooth.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Once cool, spread the glaze on top of the bread. If you apply it while warm, it may melt and run off.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Slice and serve your delicious Cherry Bread! Store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container or freeze them for later enjoyment.

This delightful Cherry Bread is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for anyone looking to bake something special!

How to Serve Cherry Bread

Cherry bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these ideas will enhance your cherry bread experience.

Breakfast Delight

• Toast with Butter: Lightly toast slices and spread butter on top for a warm and savory start to your day.
• Fruit Compote: Serve with a side of homemade fruit compote to complement the cherry flavor with other fruity notes.

Afternoon Snack

• Cream Cheese Spread: Top slices with sweetened cream cheese for a rich and creamy twist.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer cherry bread pieces in yogurt parfaits for added texture and flavor.

Dessert Option

• Ice Cream: Pair warm cherry bread with a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the glaze for an extra sweet touch.

How to Perfect Cherry Bread

Making the perfect cherry bread involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your baking game.

• Boldly Measure Ingredients: Precision in measuring ingredients will ensure the right texture and flavor balance.
• Boldly Preheat the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking; this helps the bread rise properly.
• Boldly Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if baked through; it should come out clean from the center.
• Boldly Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack to avoid sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Bread

Cherry bread pairs wonderfully with certain side dishes that complement its sweet and fruity profile. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy addition that balances sweetness while adding protein.
2. Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
3. Nut Butter: Almond or cashew butter adds richness and nuttiness, enhancing flavors beautifully.
4. Cottage Cheese: This light side adds creaminess and protein without overpowering the cherry taste.
5. Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey can add an extra layer of sweetness, perfect for breakfast servings.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: For a nutritious option, serve chia seed pudding as a healthful complement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Bread, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the flour measurement: Accurate measurements of flour are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or fluff the flour and spoon it into the measuring cup for precision.
• Not chopping cherries properly: If cherries are too large, they won’t distribute evenly in the batter. Always chop them coarsely to ensure every bite has cherry flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bread. Stir the wet and dry ingredients until just combined for a light texture.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allowing the bread to cool fully before glazing is important. If you glaze while it’s warm, it will run off instead of setting nicely.
• Using expired baking powder/soda: Old leavening agents can ruin your bread’s rise. Always check expiration dates before baking.
• Not greasing the pan properly: A properly prepared pan ensures easy removal of your bread. Grease and flour your loaf pan well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Bread in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Bread

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cherry Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cherry Bread that might help your baking journey.

What is Cherry Bread?

Cherry Bread is a delightful quick bread featuring maraschino cherries baked into a tender loaf, often topped with a sweet almond glaze.

How can I customize my Cherry Bread?

You can add nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch or substitute different fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for variety.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can replace the milk with any plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk.

How do I know when my Cherry Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready. The top should also be golden brown.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are pitted and chopped into small pieces for even distribution.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Its sweet flavor profile makes it perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize the recipe with different fruits or nuts according to your preference!