Cherry Almond Loaf — As the weekend rolls around, I can’t help but crave something cozy and comforting. That’s where my Cherry Almond Loaf comes in – a sweet, fragrant slice of heaven that fills the house with the aroma of toasted almonds and plump, juicy cherries.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Quick Overview
This Cherry Almond Loaf is an easy, approachable recipe that comes together without much effort. It’s designed to be flexible, reliable, and perfect for both busy days and relaxed cooking moments.
| Total Time | Servings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| 1 hour 10 minutes | 12 slices | Easy |
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Almond Loaf
This loaf is the perfect balance of tender crumb and crunchy topping, like a warm hug for your taste buds. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a leisurely brunch or gifting it to a friend, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients for Cherry Almond Loaf
This Cherry Almond Loaf comes together with simple pantry staples and a few special ingredients that elevate the flavors. You’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, fresh or frozen cherries, and sliced almonds.
- 2 cups (250g) – all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) – granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon – baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon – salt
- 2 – large eggs
- 1/2 cup (115g) – melted butter
- 3/4 cup (180ml) – milk
- 1 teaspoon – vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon – almond extract
- 1 1/2 cups (225g) – fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup (50g) – sliced almonds
Ingredients That Matter in Cherry Almond Loaf
| Ingredient | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Provides the sturdy base for the loaf’s tender crumb. |
| Granulated Sugar | Sweetens the batter and helps create a delightful crust. |
| Baking Powder | Gives the loaf its rise and fluffy texture. |
| Cherries | Add bursts of tart, juicy flavor throughout the loaf. |
| Sliced Almonds | Provide a delicate crunch and nutty aroma |
Ingredient Substitutions
| Original Ingredient | Best Substitute | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Whole Wheat Flour | Whole wheat flour will create a heartier, more rustic texture. |
| Milk | Greek Yogurt | Greek yogurt will add a tangier crumb and moister texture. |
Tools You’ll Need
To make this Cherry Almond Loaf, you’ll need a standard loaf pan, a hand or stand mixer, and a sharp knife or bench scraper for chopping the cherries.
- A 9×5-inch loaf pan
- A hand mixer or stand mixer
- A sharp knife or bench scraper
How to Make Cherry Almond Loaf
This Cherry Almond Loaf is a breeze to whip up, with minimal prep and straightforward instructions that even novice bakers can master.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Assemble the Loaf
Fold in the fresh or frozen cherries, reserving a handful to press into the top of the loaf. Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved cherries and the sliced almonds over the top.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Bake the loaf for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 55-65 minutes | 1 hour 10 minutes | 12 slices | Easy |
Cherry Almond Loaf Variations & Tips
- Variation 1: Swap the cherries for diced fresh peaches and add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the batter.
- Variation 2: Use a combination of dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive holiday twist.
Cherry Almond Loaf Nutrition Information & Dietary Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
Chef’s Tips for the Best Cherry Almond Loaf
Here are a few of my top tips to help you nail this Cherry Almond Loaf every time:
- Tip 1: Use room-temperature ingredients for a lighter, more even rise.
- Tip 2: Don’t overmix the batter – just mix until the dry and wet ingredients are just combined.
- Tip 3: Toss the cherries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter to prevent them from sinking.
- Tip 4: For an extra-crunchy topping, sprinkle the sliced almonds over the batter before baking.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or alongside a cheese board.
Storage: This loaf can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 days, covered in plastic wrap or foil. For longer keeping, you can freeze the loaf for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To reheat, thaw the loaf in the refrigerator overnight, then let it come to room temperature before slicing. You can also warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or pop the whole loaf in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Make-Ahead: This Cherry Almond Loaf is an excellent make-ahead option, as the flavors actually improve over time. You can bake the loaf up to 4 days in advance and store it at room temperature, covered, until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cherry Almond Loaf
Can I use canned or jarred cherries instead of fresh or frozen?
Absolutely! Canned or jarred cherries can work well in this recipe, just be sure to drain them thoroughly before adding to the batter. The flavor may be slightly less vibrant, but the texture will still be delicious.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, as gluten-free flours can behave a bit differently.
How do I store leftovers?
This Cherry Almond Loaf will keep at room temperature for up to 4 days, stored in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. For longer storage, you can freeze the whole loaf or individual slices for up to 3 months.
Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
While you can use almond flour in this recipe, the texture and structure of the loaf may be different. Almond flour tends to produce a more dense, moist crumb. You may need to adjust the other wet ingredients if using almond flour.
Do I have to use both vanilla and almond extracts?
No, you don’t have to use both extracts. If you prefer a more pronounced almond flavor, you can use 1 teaspoon of almond extract and omit the vanilla. Conversely, you can use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and skip the almond if that’s more your style.
Final Tips Before You Dig In
Don’t be intimidated by baking – this Cherry Almond Loaf is a total crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make. Trust your instincts, and remember that a little bit of love goes a long way in the kitchen.
- Feel free to play around with the recipe and make it your own. Switch up the fruit, nuts, or extracts to suit your personal taste preferences. The beauty of this loaf is its versatility.
- Most importantly, don’t forget to savor every bite. Baking is as much about the process as it is the final result, so take your time and enjoy the journey. I hope this Cherry Almond Loaf brings you and your loved ones as much joy as it does for me.
Happy baking, my friends! Dig in and enjoy.
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Sumptuous 5-Star Cherry Almond Loaf
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: 🍲 Comfort Classics & Casseroles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cherry Almond Loaf is a delightful combination of sweet cherries and nutty almonds, perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Moist and flavorful, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– ½ cup buttermilk
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
– ½ cup sliced almonds
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the halved cherries and sliced almonds gently.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
– Make sure to use fresh cherries for the best flavor.
– You can substitute dried cherries if fresh ones are not available, but adjust the sugar as dried cherries are sweeter.
– This loaf can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
