Name: Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-483739H15M8S
Total time: PT-483739H15M8S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp almond extract; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 3/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tbsp milk (for glaze); 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This almond cherry bread is a delightful combination of nutty and fruity flavors, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. The moist and tender crumb, combined with the crunch of almonds and the sweetness of cherries, creates a balance of textures and flavors. Best of all, this recipe is easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal preparation. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter or as a standalone treat, this bread is sure to impress.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Almond extract
Vanilla extract
Milk
Chopped almonds
Maraschino cherries
Powdered sugar
Milk (for glaze)
Sliced almonds (for topping)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and set aside.
Prepare the dry ingredients by whisking together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the almond and vanilla extracts.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, until a smooth batter forms.
Fold in the chopped almonds and maraschino cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread.
Garnish with sliced almonds and let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

Variations

Use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries for a natural sweetness and juicier texture.
Add dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Substitute almond flour for part of the all-purpose flour to enhance the nutty flavor.
Try different nuts like pecans or walnuts for variety.
Make it dairy-free by using almond milk and dairy-free butter.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes
Servings: 8-10 slices

Storage/Reheating

Store the almond cherry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to a week for longer freshness.
Freeze slices wrapped individually in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, substitute an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

What can I use instead of almond extract?

You can use extra vanilla extract or a bit of coconut extract for a different twist.

Why did my bread turn out dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can lead to dryness. Be sure to measure ingredients accurately and check for doneness early.

Can I add a streusel topping?

Absolutely! A simple mix of butter, sugar, and flour with almonds can add a delicious crunch.

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can replace part of the all-purpose flour with almond flour, but using only almond flour may result in a denser bread.

How do I prevent cherries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the cherries in a little flour before adding them to the batter to help distribute them evenly.

Can I make this into muffins?

Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 18-22 minutes.

How do I make this recipe sugar-free?

Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar.

Can I make this bread without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan alternative.

Conclusion

This easy almond cherry bread is a fantastic treat that combines nutty and fruity flavors in a moist, tender loaf. With its simple preparation and delicious taste, it’s a great recipe to have on hand for breakfast, snacking, or gifting. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy every bite of this delightful bread!

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