Save A moist festive quick bread studded with juicy cherries and fragrant almonds — perfect for the holidays or any time you crave a simple elegant treat.
I love baking this loaf during the holidays because it fills the house with the warm aroma of almonds and cherries.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients: ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened, ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp almond extract
- Add-ins: 1 cup (150 g) fresh or thawed frozen cherries, pitted and halved (or use well-drained maraschino cherries), ½ cup (60 g) sliced almonds plus more for topping
- Optional Topping: 2 tbsp sliced almonds, 2 tbsp coarse sugar
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour baking powder and salt. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Step 4:
- Beat in eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Step 5:
- Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture mix just until combined. Pour in the milk then add the remaining dry ingredients stirring gently until just incorporated.
- Step 6:
- Fold in cherries and sliced almonds.
- Step 7:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle with extra sliced almonds and coarse sugar if desired.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 9:
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Save This loaf always brings my family together for a warm afternoon treat.
Notes
For a glazed finish drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk once cooled. Substitute dried cherries if fresh or frozen are unavailable (use ¾ cup and soak in warm water for 10 minutes). Try adding orange zest for a citrus note. Delicious served with tea or coffee.
Required Tools
9x5-inch loaf pan Mixing bowls Electric mixer or whisk Measuring cups and spoons Rubber spatula Parchment paper Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) Eggs Milk (dairy) Tree Nuts (almonds) Butter (dairy). Always double-check ingredient labels especially for processed cherries.
Save Enjoy this delightful cherry almond loaf as a perfect holiday treat or a lovely snack anytime.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How can I ensure the loaf stays moist?
Using softened butter and milk helps maintain moisture, while careful mixing avoids overworking the batter, keeping the loaf tender.
- → Can I substitute fresh cherries with dried ones?
Yes, soak dried cherries in warm water for 10 minutes before folding them in to rehydrate and soften for even baking.
- → What is the purpose of almond extract in this loaf?
Almond extract adds a fragrant nutty aroma that complements the sliced almonds, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- → How should I store the loaf after baking?
Keep it wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to preserve freshness.
- → Is there an option to add a glaze topping?
Yes, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can be drizzled after cooling to add sweetness and shine.