There’s something deeply heartwarming about the aroma of freshly baked Cherry Bread wafting through the house. It takes me right back to my beloved grandmother’s kitchen, where every loaf she made was infused with love—and an extra handful of cherries just because we could. The sweetness of the cherries combined with that cozy, cake-like texture always wrapped me in a warm hug, making even the rainiest afternoons feel like a special celebration.
Why make this recipe? Well, it doesn’t just satisfy the sweet tooth; it serves as a reminder that some of the best moments in life are spent at the table, breaking bread with family and friends. It’s a simple, delightful treat that whispers stories of togetherness, laughter, and inherited recipes passed down through generations. When you take that first bite, it’s like tasting a slice of home.
How to make Cherry Bread
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup 2 percent milk
- 1/2 cup canola oil or vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract or vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 jars maraschino cherries
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Directions:
Start by preheating your oven to a warm 350°F. This is where the magic begins, so let that comforting warmth fill your kitchen! Grab a trusty 9×5 inch loaf pan—give it a good spray with cooking spray or grease it up with some shortening and dust it lightly with flour, ensuring that your bread won’t stick at the edges.
In a medium bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, milk, oil, egg, and the lovely almond extract that adds such a nutty sweetness to the recipe. In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients—the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—mixing them up so they’re all ready to blend with the wet ingredients.
Once that’s done, gently fold the dry mix into the wet one until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want that delightful, tender crumb. Now, let’s talk cherries! Drain the maraschino cherries but keep that luscious juice for the glaze later. Do a little chopping, coarsely, and fold those sweet gems into your batter with a light hand. Pour this cherry-filled joy into your prepared loaf pan.
Pop it into the oven and let it bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out nice and clean, with only a few crumbs sticking to it. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before transferring the loaf onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Now, for the best part—the glaze! In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, cherry juice, and a splash more of almond extract. Once your cherry bread has cooled down, spread that beautiful glaze over the top. Slice it up, serve it warm, and watch as loved ones gather around, drawn in by that irresistible smell!
How to serve Cherry Bread
Cherry Bread is perfect enjoyed as a delightful breakfast treat or a lovely afternoon snack paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee. It’s also ideal for sharing, whether you’re slicing it for neighbors or bringing it to family gatherings. Just a hint of cherry on top makes it feel like a celebration with every bite.
How to store Cherry Bread
You can store your Cherry Bread at room temperature in an airtight container. Just keep it in a cool, dry place, and it’ll stay fresh and delicious for several days. If you want to savor it for a longer time, this lovely loaf freezes beautifully! Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready for a taste of nostalgia, take it out to thaw and reminisce.
Tips to make Cherry Bread
- Don’t skip the almond extract if you can help it! It adds a depth of flavor that elevates the whole loaf.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cherries depending on your love for them—more cherries mean more love in every slice.
- For an extra twist, try adding some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for texture.
Variations
If you’re looking to mix it up, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the batter for a refreshing zing. You could also swap out the maraschino cherries for fresh or frozen cherries when in season. Just remember to adjust the sugar accordingly!
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Absolutely! Just make sure to pit and chop them into smaller pieces, and keep an eye on the sugar since fresh cherries can be tart.
What can I do if my bread is too crumbly?
It might need a tad more moisture. Try adding an extra tablespoon of milk to the batter next time.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger pan or bake them in batches!
This Cherry Bread feels like a cozy hug wrapped in sweet goodness, a little sprinkle of nostalgia, and a heap of love. So gather around your kitchen table, connect with your own memories, and invite others in for a slice or two, because food is meant to be shared, just like stories that warm the heart.
Cherry Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, milk, oil, egg, and almond extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Drain and chop the maraschino cherries, then fold them into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, cherry juice, and almond extract for the glaze.
- Once the cherry bread is cool, spread the glaze over the top.