Cherry Bread

Cherry Bread is a delightful quick bread that showcases the sweet flavor of maraschino cherries in every bite. This easy recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any special occasion. With its moist texture and topped with a luscious almond cherry glaze, this Cherry Bread will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Cherry Bread comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Deliciously Sweet: The maraschino cherries add a burst of flavor, while the almond extract enhances the overall taste profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a sweet dessert option.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant pink hue from the cherries makes this bread visually appealing for any table setting.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe yields 10 servings, making it ideal for sharing at potlucks and parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Cherry Bread, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for an efficient baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (9×5)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray or shortening
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: A good loaf pan ensures even baking and helps the bread maintain its shape.
• Mixing bowls: Having various sizes allows you to mix wet and dry ingredients separately for better results.
• Whisk: A whisk provides thorough mixing, ensuring your batter is smooth without lumps.

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Ingredients

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

For the Bread

• 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)

For the Glaze

• 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 your oven to 350ºF. Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with cooking spray or greasing it with shortening followed by dusting with flour.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Stir together the granulated sugar, milk, canola oil, egg, and almond extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while stirring until just combined.

Step 4: Add Cherries to Batter

Drain the maraschino cherries while reserving some juice for later.
1. Coarsely chop the cherries using a food processor or knife.
2. Gently fold the chopped cherries into the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
1. Bake in preheated oven for 50-60 minutes.
2. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While waiting for your bread to cool:
1. In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, melted butter, reserved cherry juice, and almond extract.
2. Whisk until smooth.

Step 7: Glaze Your Bread

Once cooled:
1. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the bread. Be careful if glazing while warm; it may melt off.

Step 8: Serve and Store

Slice your delicious Cherry Bread:
1. Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
2. The bread also freezes well if you want to save some for later!

How to Serve Cherry Bread

Cherry bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve slices of cherry bread topped with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy touch.

Toasted with Butter

• Lightly toast the cherry bread and spread a layer of butter for a warm, comforting snack.

Paired with Ice Cream

• Enjoy cherry bread as a base for a delicious sundae. A scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream complements the flavors beautifully.

Alongside Fresh Fruit

• Pair cherry bread with a side of fresh berries or sliced peaches for a refreshing contrast.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include cherry bread on your brunch table alongside other pastries and fruits for a colorful display.

With Nut Butters

• Spread almond butter or peanut butter on warm slices. The nutty flavor enhances the sweetness of the cherries.

How to Perfect Cherry Bread

Creating the perfect cherry bread takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your loaf turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh cherries: For an even more vibrant flavor, consider substituting maraschino cherries with fresh pitted cherries when they’re in season.
• Don’t overmix: Gently fold in the cherries and dry ingredients into the wet mixture to keep the texture light.
• Check doneness early: Ovens vary; check your bread 5-10 minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
• Cool completely: Let the bread cool fully before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting away.
• Store properly: Keep any leftover cherry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different extracts, like vanilla or coconut, to switch up the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Bread

Cherry bread pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet and fruity flavors. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Greek Yogurt – Creamy and tangy, Greek yogurt adds protein and balances out the sweetness of the cherry bread.
2. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and contrast in texture while enhancing flavor.
3. Cottage Cheese – The mild taste of cottage cheese provides a nice contrast and adds creaminess when served alongside slices.
4. Granola – Crunchy granola sprinkled on top or served on the side gives an added texture that pairs nicely with moist cherry bread.
5. Smoothies – A refreshing fruit smoothie can make for a delightful drink pairing, enhancing your overall meal experience.
6. Herbal Tea – A warm cup of herbal tea complements the sweet notes of cherry bread perfectly while providing a soothing drink option.
7. Honey Drizzle – A drizzle of honey over each slice can enhance sweetness and add moisture when served as part of a larger brunch spread.
8. Cheese Platter – A selection of soft cheeses offers savory notes that balance the sweetness, creating an interesting contrast on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Bread can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to be aware of.

• Bold Ingredient Measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to inconsistencies in texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Bold Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the bread dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Bold Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into warm bread can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for best results.
• Bold Ignoring Glaze Timing: Applying glaze while the bread is still warm will result in a runny mess. Wait until the bread is cool before spreading the glaze for a beautiful finish.
• Bold Using Non-Stick Spray Incorrectly: Failing to properly grease the loaf pan may cause sticking. Ensure thorough greasing with cooking spray or shortening and flour dusting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for about 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cherry Bread

• Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Cherry Bread

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, wrap bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Cherry Bread that may help you while baking.

How do I ensure my Cherry Bread rises well?

Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can prevent proper rising.

Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries; however, you might need to adjust sugar levels since fresh cherries are less sweet than maraschino cherries.

What variations can I make with Cherry Bread?

Consider adding nuts like almonds or walnuts, or incorporating chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.

How long does it take to bake Cherry Bread?

Typically, it takes between 50-60 minutes at 350ºF. Always check with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Bread is not only easy to make but also deliciously versatile. You can customize it with your favorite fruits or nuts. Enjoy this delightful quick bread as a sweet breakfast treat or dessert!