Cherry Almond Bread Delight

Cherry almond bread is a delightful treat that brings together the natural sweetness of cherries with the satisfying crunch of almonds. This moist loaf is perfect for starting your day or enjoying as a comforting afternoon snack. Baking this bread fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma that makes any moment feel special, whether you are sharing it during a cozy gathering or savoring quiet time by yourself. Each slice carries a hint of nostalgia, reminding me of family breakfasts and simple weekend pleasures.

I first baked this loaf for a family brunch and was thrilled to see how quickly it disappeared. Now it’s a go-to recipe whenever I want to lift everyone's spirits with something homemade and heartfelt.

Ingredients

• Two cups all-purpose flour: provides structure and chewy tenderness use good quality flour for best results
• Two teaspoons baking powder: acts as the leavening agent to give the bread a light and airy lift
• Half a teaspoon salt: enhances flavor balance and rounds out the sweetness
• Three quarters cup granulated sugar: sweetens without overpowering the natural cherry flavor
• Two large eggs: bind ingredients and contribute to richness
• One cup whole milk: adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb opt for whole milk for the best texture
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile
• One cup pitted cherries: fresh or frozen add bursts of juicy sweetness choose ripe cherries for maximum flavor
• Half a cup sliced almonds: lend crunch and a subtle nutty aroma toasted almonds intensify the flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius and grease a standard loaf pan carefully to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until evenly combined This step ensures even distribution of leavening and seasoning

Prepare Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy This will help incorporate air and give the bread a nice rise

Combine Wet and Dry:

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spatula You want to mix just until combined to avoid developing gluten which can make the bread tough

Fold in Cherries and Almonds:

Carefully fold in the pitted cherries and sliced almonds distributing them evenly through the batter This step adds texture and flavor that makes this bread stand out

Bake the Bread:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan smoothing the top with a spatula Bake for about 60 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean

Cool Before Slicing:

Allow your bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set the crumb then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely This prevents sogginess and helps maintain the bread’s moisture and texture

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Cherries are my favorite ingredient here The burst of juicy tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet almond notes. Baking this bread always reminds me of lazy Sunday mornings with my family when we’d gather around the table and share stories over warm fresh slices.

Storage Tips

Store this bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to three days This keeps the crumb moist without it becoming dry If you want to keep it longer, slice and freeze in airtight bags for up to three months Reheat gently to bring back freshness

Ingredient Substitutions

Whole milk can be swapped for buttermilk or a plant-based milk like almond milk for dietary needs Vanilla extract can be replaced with almond extract to enhance the nutty flavor Use dried cherries soaked briefly in warm water if fresh or frozen are unavailable

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy slightly warmed with a smear of butter or cream cheese pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness or serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast

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Cultural and Historical Context

Nut and fruit breads have a long tradition in many cultures as a hearty, portable snack Perfect for sharing during harvest seasons when fruits and nuts are abundant This cherry almond combination reflects the American love for sweet nut breads that are both comforting and celebratory

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cherries work well; just thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

→ What type of almonds is best for topping?

Sliced almonds are ideal as they toast nicely during baking, adding a pleasant crunch.

→ How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

→ Can I substitute almond milk for whole milk?

Almond milk can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture and richness of the bread.

→ Is it better to fold or mix the cherries in?

Gently folding helps keep the cherries intact and prevents them from breaking or sinking.