If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that brings the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors, then you’ve come to the right place! This Cherry Bread with Almond Cherry Glaze Recipe is a charming twist on classic quick bread, bursting with juicy maraschino cherries and topped with a luscious almond-infused glaze. Every bite offers a moist crumb and that irresistible hint of almond that dances alongside the vibrant cherry notes, making it a perfect companion for coffee breaks, brunches, or anytime you need a little homemade joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Cherry Bread with Almond Cherry Glaze Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create something truly special. Each item is essential not only for taste but also for texture and that inviting color that makes it so visually appealing.
- Granulated sugar: Adds the just-right sweetness that balances the tart cherries.
- Milk: Keeps the bread moist and tender throughout baking.
- Canola oil: Provides moisture without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to a soft crumb.
- Almond extract: Infuses the bread and glaze with signature warm, nutty aroma.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to the bread.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that help the bread rise beautifully.
- Salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- Maraschino cherries: The star ingredient adding juicy bursts of color and sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: Essential for creating a smooth, glossy glaze.
- Melted butter: Richness and silkiness for the glaze’s perfect finish.
- Cherry juice: Reserved from the cherries to intensify that vibrant cherry flavor in the glaze.
How to Make Cherry Bread with Almond Cherry Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9″x5″ loaf pan to ensure your cherry bread releases easily after baking. This little prep saves you from any sticky situations later!
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, milk, canola oil, egg, and almond extract. This combination ensures your bread will have a tender crumb and the unmistakable warm almond aroma everyone loves.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Adding these dry ingredients slowly to your wet mixture helps prevent overmixing, which keeps the bread nice and tender.
Step 4: Fold in the Chopped Cherries
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, distributing them evenly for juicy bursts of sweetness. This is the step where the bread gets all its charming pops of color and flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Whisk Together the Almond Cherry Glaze
While the bread cools, whisk the powdered sugar, melted butter, reserved cherry juice, and almond extract together until smooth and glossy. This glaze is the crowning glory, bringing that beautiful almond-cherry harmony to every slice.
Step 7: Drizzle the Glaze Over the Bread
Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the glaze generously on top. It will set slightly, creating a shiny, dreamy finish that’s both visually stunning and decadently tasty.
How to Serve Cherry Bread with Almond Cherry Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, sprinkle a few whole maraschino cherries or slivered almonds over the glaze before it sets. These simple garnishes add texture and a pop of flair that’ll impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice!
Side Dishes
This cherry bread pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a breakfast twist, serve alongside your favorite yogurt and fresh fruit, making it a wonderfully balanced and indulgent start to the day.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap slices in parchment paper tied with twine for a thoughtful homemade gift. Or, create mini cherry bread loaf bites for parties by baking your batter in a muffin tin, perfect for sharing and snacking on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cherry bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and moist for up to three days, and the glaze keeps its lovely sheen.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, cherry bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
To bring your cherry bread back to life, reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a toaster oven briefly. This will make the bread soft and the glaze slightly melty again, like it’s fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
You absolutely can! Fresh or frozen cherries add a naturally tart flavor, but maraschino cherries provide that classic bright sweetness and color that’s essential for this recipe’s signature taste.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If you’re short on almond extract, vanilla extract is a great alternative, though it will slightly change the flavor profile. For a nutty touch, a small amount of hazelnut extract can also work.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out the milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute for the glaze. The bread will still be moist and flavorful.
Can I make mini loaves or muffins with this recipe?
Definitely! Simply divide the batter into a greased muffin tin or mini loaf pans. Adjust baking time to 20-25 minutes for muffins and about 40 minutes for mini loaves.
How long does the glaze stay good on the bread?
The almond cherry glaze will remain delicious and slightly sticky for a couple of days stored at room temperature, but it’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Cherry Bread with Almond Cherry Glaze Recipe that makes it an instant favorite. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or yourself, it’s a comforting, joyful treat that brightens the day. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with those charming cherry bursts and that rich almond glaze every single time!
Print
Cherry Bread with Almond Cherry Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cherry Bread is a delightful and moist quick bread bursting with the sweet flavor of maraschino cherries paired with aromatic almond extract. Topped with a luscious cherry glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 jars (20 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/3 cup cherry juice (reserved from cherries)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9″x5″ loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, milk, canola oil, egg, and almond extract until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in Cherries: Carefully fold the chopped maraschino cherries into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking them down.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, reserved cherry juice, and almond extract until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze the Bread: When the bread has fully cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top for a sweet and glossy finish.
Notes
- Ensure cherries are well drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light texture.
- You can substitute cherry extract for almond extract if desired.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a festive touch, add chopped nuts or white chocolate chips to the batter.
