Almond Cherry Bread
A Sweet, Nutty Treat for Any Occasion
There’s something comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the sweetness of fruit and the nuttiness of almonds. Almond Cherry Bread is a delicious combination of tart dried cherries and rich almond flavor, perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert.
What makes this bread special is its moist, tender crumb, slightly sweet taste, and versatility. You can slice it thick for toast, serve it with a smear of butter or cream cheese, or even turn it into a decadent French toast. It’s simple enough for everyday baking but impressive enough to share with friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for brushing top)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and extracts: Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla and almond extracts.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with sour cream, until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in cherries and almonds: Gently fold in dried cherries and 1/4 cup sliced almonds.
- Transfer to pan: Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle remaining sliced almonds on top. Brush lightly with milk if desired for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & serve: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful: Sour cream keeps the bread tender, while almond extract gives a subtle nutty aroma.
- Fruit and nut combination: Tart cherries and crunchy almonds provide texture and taste.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or gifting.
- Easy to make: One bowl method with simple ingredients.
Almond Cherry Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla and almond extracts.
- Alternate adding flour mixture and sour cream, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in dried cherries and 1/4 cup sliced almonds.
- Pour batter into pan, smooth top, sprinkle remaining almonds, brush with milk if desired.
- Bake 50–60 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool and slice.
Notes
Variations & Twists
- Chocolate cherry bread: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Glazed version: Drizzle with a simple almond glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Seasonal fruits: Swap cherries with cranberries, blueberries, or chopped apricots.
- Nut alternatives: Use pecans or walnuts instead of almonds.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter or cream cheese.
- Slice thick for French toast or bread pudding.
- Pair with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a cozy snack.
Storage & Tips
- Room temperature: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Slice and freeze individually for up to 2 months.
- Tip: For extra flavor, soak dried cherries in warm water or juice for 10 minutes before folding into the batter.
FAQ
Q: Can I use fresh cherries?
Yes, but reduce moisture by pitting and lightly tossing with flour before adding to batter.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in two loaf pans and increase baking time slightly.
