Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the warm aroma of baking wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel that familiar tug of excitement. This Almond Cherry Bread is my go-to for those moments when I crave something quick yet indulgent. With just 20 minutes of prep time, this delightful recipe introduces the juicy sweetness of fresh cherries and a satisfying crunch from sliced almonds, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dessert. Plus, it cleverly incorporates Greek yogurt and buttermilk, adding moisture without the fuss. Who wouldn’t want to savor a slice while sipping their morning coffee? Stick around, and let me share how to create this crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress at any gathering! What makes this bread so special? Deliciously Simple: The Almond Cherry Bread is quick to whip up, requiring just 20 minutes of prep. Perfect for those busy mornings! Moist and Flavorful: Thanks to Greek yogurt and buttermilk, every slice bursts with moisture, while fresh or canned cherries add sweetness. Versatile Delight: Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s a wonderful addition to any meal. Try it warm with butter for an extra treat! Aromatic Bliss: The enchanting smell of this bread baking will fill your kitchen and entice everyone to gather around. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Guests and family alike will be captivated by the shiny almond glaze and nutty essence, making this recipe a guaranteed showstopper at your next gathering. For more delicious baked goods, check out my Easy Banana Bread or the Moist Pumpkin Bread recipes! Almond Cherry Bread Ingredients • Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Almond Cherry Bread! For the Batter Greek Yogurt – Provides moisture and a slight tang; substitute with plain strained yogurt. Buttermilk – Adds richness and tenderness; replace with milk mixed with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Unsalted Butter – Offers richness and flavor; can be swapped with olive oil without adjustments. Eggs – Acts as a binder, crucial for structure. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor profile. Almond Extract – Infuses a nutty essence that beautifully complements the cherries. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread and aids in browning. All-Purpose Flour – Provides the main structure of the bread; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure the bread rises. Salt – Enhances and balances the overall flavor. For the Cherries Cherries (Fresh or Canned) – The star ingredient that provides moisture and natural sweetness; make sure to drain and quarter canned cherries well. Corn Starch – Prevents cherries from sinking by coating them; in a pinch, all-purpose flour can be a substitute. For the Topping Sliced Almonds – Adds delightful texture and flavor; chopped walnuts or pecans can be used as an alternative. For the Glaze Confectioner’s Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; it’s best to adjust for desired thickness. Almond Extract – Adds flavor to the glaze for a tasty finish. Cream – Helps to achieve a smooth consistency for drizzling over the cooled bread. This Almond Cherry Bread is a simple yet luxurious treat that truly represents the love of homemade food, inviting everyone to savor a piece! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Almond Cherry Bread Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare an 8½-inch loaf pan by generously spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. This step is crucial as a well-prepared pan will ensure that your Almond Cherry Bread releases easily once baked, leading to a perfect loaf right out of the oven. Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and granulated sugar. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, beat the mixture until everything is well combined and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This mixture will create a rich flavor base for your delightful bread. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Once fully combined, sift this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, gently folding until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain a light and fluffy texture for your Almond Cherry Bread. Step 4: Prepare Cherries If using fresh cherries, pit and quarter them. In a small bowl, toss the prepared cherries with cornstarch to coat them lightly. This will help prevent the cherries from sinking during baking. Gently fold the cherries and sliced almonds into the batter, reserving a few almonds and cherries for topping later. Step 5: Bake the Bread Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Top the batter with the reserved cherries and sliced almonds for an attractive finish. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bread should have a golden-brown crust when finished. Step 6: Cool the Bread Once baked, remove the Almond Cherry Bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows the bread to set, ensuring that it’s deliciously moist and ready for slicing. Step 7: Make the Glaze While the bread is cooling, prepare the almond glaze by whisking together confectioner’s sugar, almond extract, and cream in a small bowl until smooth and free of lumps. You can adjust the glaze’s thickness by adding more sugar if desired; a thicker glaze will provide a lovely finish to the cooled bread. Step 8: Drizzle and Serve Once the almond cherry bread has completely cooled, generously drizzle the almond glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature to savor the delightful flavors of cherries and almonds in every slice of your delicious Almond Cherry Bread. How to Store and Freeze Almond Cherry Bread Room Temperature: Store completely cooled Almond Cherry Bread wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 24 hours to maintain its moisture and freshness. Fridge: If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. Just ensure you let it return to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped Almond Cherry Bread in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying. Reheating: To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds, just until warm to preserve its delightful moisture and flavor. What to Serve with Almond Cherry Bread As you relish a slice of this delectable bread, consider complementing it with delightful sides that elevate your dining experience. Creamy Greek Yogurt: Its rich texture contrasts beautifully with the bread, enhancing its deliciously moist quality. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing zest that balances the sweetness of the cherries. Warm Butter: A simple pat of butter atop a warm slice creates a heavenly melt-in-your-mouth experience and adds a touch of indulgence. Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup serves as the perfect beverage pairing, enhancing the almond’s nutty undertones and rounding out the flavors. Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey brings a floral sweetness that complements the tartness of cherries, offering a unique twist with each bite. Almonds or Pecans: A handful of roasted nuts on the side provide an enticing crunch, drawing out the nutty flavors in the bread while adding texture. Make Ahead Options These Almond Cherry Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients separately and storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can also coat the cherries in cornstarch and store them in a small container; this prevents browning and keeps them fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients along with the cherries and sliced almonds, then proceed to pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake as directed, and enjoy a slice of homemade bliss with minimal effort, just as delicious as when made fresh! Expert Tips for Almond Cherry Bread Well-Drained Cherries: Always ensure canned cherries are thoroughly drained before use. Excess moisture can make your bread soggy. Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter after combining wet and dry ingredients. This keeps your Almond Cherry Bread light and fluffy. Thick Glaze Option: For a thicker almond glaze, gradually add more confectioner’s sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Correct Baking Time: Check the doneness of your bread around the 50-minute mark. An inserted toothpick should come out clean; overbaking can lead to dryness. Storage Wisely: Wrap leftovers in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Refrigerate any remaining slices afterward for freshness. Almond Cherry Bread Variations Embrace your culinary creativity with these delicious twists on Almond Cherry Bread! Nutty Swap: Replace sliced almonds with chopped walnuts or pecans for a different texture and flavor experience. Each nut brings its unique character, elevating the taste of your bread. Dried Cherry Delight: Use dried cherries instead of fresh ones—simply rehydrate them in hot water first to maintain moisture in your bread. This variation adds deep, concentrated cherry flavor that’s delightfully rich. Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one orange or lemon into the batter for a refreshing citrus note that perfectly complements the cherries. Such a twist brightens the bread, making it a lovely spring treat. Chocolate Lovers: Stir in some chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for a delightful surprise. The combination of chocolate and cherries creates an indulgent flavor profile that’s sure to please any sweet tooth. Gluten-Free Option: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends or family. The taste will still shine, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this lovely bread. Mini Loaves: Bake individual mini loaves by using a muffin or mini loaf pan. Start checking for doneness around 18 to 20 minutes for perfectly portioned treats, ideal for snack time or gift-giving. Spiced Warmth: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger for a cozy aromatic twist. The spices will add warmth and depth, making each bite feel like a comforting hug on chilly days. Heat It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the batter. This unexpected kick pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cherries. Feel free to experiment and create your version of Almond Cherry Bread! For more variations, check out my Easy Banana Bread or try the delightful Moist Pumpkin Bread recipes that are sure to inspire! Almond Cherry Bread Recipe FAQs What type of cherries should I use for the Almond Cherry Bread? You can use either fresh or canned cherries for this recipe. If using canned cherries, make sure to drain and quarter them properly to avoid excess moisture in your bread. For fresh cherries, pit and quarter them before tossing with cornstarch to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking. How should I store leftover Almond Cherry Bread? Store completely cooled Almond Cherry Bread wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it tightly wrapped for up to 3 days. For storage beyond that, freeze the bread wrapped in plastic followed by aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. Can I freeze Almond Cherry Bread? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Properly stored, it will maintain its deliciousness for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. What should I do if my Almond Cherry Bread is too dry? If you find your bread is dry, a likely culprit is overbaking. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean but not dry. If you notice that it’s on the dry side after baking, you could enjoy it with a spread of butter or a drizzle of cream to add moisture back. Next time, aim to check for doneness a bit earlier! Are there any dietary considerations for Almond Cherry Bread? While this recipe is generally friendly for most diets, if you have nut allergies, you can substitute the sliced almonds with chopped walnuts or even omit them entirely. If you’re gluten intolerant, you could use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Always check ingredient labels, especially for extracts, to ensure they are allergy-friendly! How can I achieve a thicker almond glaze? For a thicker almond glaze, simply add more confectioner’s sugar gradually until you reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a thinner glaze, just add a bit more cream. The key is to whisk thoroughly after each addition until you have that perfect drizzle-able texture. Enjoy drizzling over the cooled bread! Irresistibly Moist Almond Cherry Bread Perfect for Any Occasion This Almond Cherry Bread is a quick and indulgent treat perfect for breakfast or dessert, featuring juicy cherries and crunchy almonds. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter1 cup Greek Yogurt Provides moisture and a slight tang½ cup Buttermilk Adds richness and tenderness½ cup Unsalted Butter Melted2 large Eggs Acts as a binder1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract½ teaspoon Almond Extract¾ cup Granulated Sugar2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour blend if needed2 teaspoons Baking Powder½ teaspoon SaltFor the Cherries1 cup Cherries (Fresh or Canned) Make sure to drain and quarter canned cherries well1 tablespoon Corn Starch Prevents cherries from sinkingFor the Topping½ cup Sliced Almonds Chopped walnuts or pecans can be used as an alternativeFor the Glaze1 cup Confectioner’s Sugar Adjust for desired thickness½ teaspoon Almond Extract2 tablespoons Cream Helps achieve a smooth consistency Equipment 8½-inch loaf panmixing bowlWhiskelectric mixer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare an 8½-inch loaf pan by generously spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and granulated sugar. Beat until well combined and creamy.In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sift this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, gently folding until just combined.If using fresh cherries, pit and quarter them. Toss the prepared cherries with cornstarch to coat them lightly. Fold the cherries and sliced almonds into the batter, reserving a few for topping.Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Top with reserved cherries and sliced almonds. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.Prepare the almond glaze by whisking together confectioner’s sugar, almond extract, and cream until smooth.Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure canned cherries are thoroughly drained. Avoid overmixing for a light and fluffy texture. Store leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
