Pin It 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.
This loaf quickly became a holiday favorite in my family we love how the cherries and almonds complement each other beautifully.
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
Pin It Baking this loaf always brings my family together especially around the holidays when warm smells fill the kitchen and everyone eagerly waits for a slice.
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
Pin It This cherry almond loaf is the perfect treat to share or savor alone its balance of flavors and textures never disappoints.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute dried cherries for fresh ones?
Yes, dried cherries can be soaked in warm water for 10 minutes before using to soften them and maintain moisture in the loaf.
- → What gives the loaf its almond flavor?
The almond extract combined with sliced almonds throughout the batter creates a fragrant and nutty almond flavor.
- → How do I ensure the loaf stays moist?
Using softened butter, eggs, and milk in the batter helps retain moisture, resulting in a tender and moist loaf after baking.
- → Can I add a glaze to the loaf?
A simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk can be drizzled on top once the loaf is cooled for a sweet finish.
- → What baking pan size is recommended?
A 9x5-inch loaf pan is best to ensure even baking and proper loaf shape.
- → Is it possible to add other flavors?
Yes, adding orange zest or a hint of vanilla can complement the cherry and almond flavors nicely.