Easy Almond Cherry Bread

The Easy Almond Cherry Bread  is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture and the sweet burst of cherries, it stands out as a favorite among baked goods. This recipe is simple to follow and results in a deliciously flavorful loaf that can be enjoyed at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a charming dessert. The use of Greek yogurt and buttermilk adds richness while keeping the bread tender and light.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This almond cherry bread can be made in under 90 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Bursting with flavor: The combination of fresh cherries and almond extract creates a unique taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it warm, toasted, or drizzled with almond glaze – it’s great for any time of day.
• Nutritious ingredients: Made with Greek yogurt and buttermilk, this bread provides protein and moisture without excess fat.
• Simple ingredients: You don’t need fancy items; most of the ingredients are pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delightful Easy Almond Cherry Bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Sifter or fine mesh strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Essential for shaping your bread, ensuring even baking and a perfect slice.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining wet and dry ingredients separately before merging them together.
• Whisk: A key tool for mixing batter smoothly, helping to incorporate air for a lighter texture.

Ingredients

The best and most delicious almond cherry bread with fresh cherries, almonds, and almond glaze! Made with Greek yogurt and buttermilk!

For the Bread

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or plain, strained yogurt)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups cherries (fresh or canned)
• 1 tbsp corn starch
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

For the Almond Glaze

• 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar
• 1 to 2 tbsp cream
• 1/4 tsp almond extract

How to Make Easy Almond Cherry Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F (177C). Prepare an 8 ½-inch loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper and spraying the sides with nonstick baking spray.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the eggs, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and sugar.
2. Beat on medium speed for a few minutes until the eggs are well blended.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Sift this mixture into the wet batter.
3. Beat on medium speed for about one minute until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Prepare Cherries

Pit the cherries and cut them into quarters. Toss them in cornstarch to coat lightly.
– Fold these into the batter along with sliced almonds.
– Reserve some cherries and almonds to sprinkle on top later.

Step 5: Transfer Batter to Pan

Carefully pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Top with reserved cherries and sliced almonds for an attractive finish.

Step 6: Bake

Place in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove from the pan and let cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 7: Make Almond Glaze

For the glaze:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine confectioner’s sugar, almond extract, and cream.
– Whisk until smooth; adjust thickness by adding more sugar if desired. Drizzle over cooled bread.

Step 8: Storage

Once cooled completely, wrap your Easy Almond Cherry Bread in plastic wrap. Store at room temperature for freshness.

Step 9: Share Your Thoughts

If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Consider leaving a comment or rating review to support my blog!

How to Serve Easy Almond Cherry Bread

Easy Almond Cherry Bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, there are plenty of serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Fruits

• Pair the bread with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing touch. The natural sweetness of the fruits complements the almond and cherry flavors beautifully.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely sheen to your bread. This simple addition brings out the nutty notes of the almonds.

Served Warm with Butter

• Serve slices warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat. The melting butter adds richness and makes every bite even more delightful.

Accompanied by Yogurt

• A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side provides creaminess and balances the sweetness. You can also add a sprinkle of granola for extra crunch.

As a Dessert with Ice Cream

• For a special occasion, serve slices topped with vanilla or almond-flavored ice cream. This combination creates a delicious contrast between warm bread and cold ice cream.

How to Perfect Easy Almond Cherry Bread

Perfecting Easy Almond Cherry Bread involves paying attention to details for optimal flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Cherries: Opt for fresh cherries when in season for maximum flavor. If using canned cherries, make sure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for all ingredients, especially flour and sugar. This ensures consistent results in texture and taste.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense bread rather than a light and fluffy texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated accurately. An oven thermometer can help you verify if it’s at the correct temperature for baking.
• Cool Properly: Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps set the structure and prevents it from becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Almond Cherry Bread

Pairing Easy Almond Cherry Bread with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a nutritious side that balances the sweetness of the bread.
2. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your table, making it an appealing choice alongside your bread.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein that rounds out your meal perfectly, making it satisfying any time of day.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the sweet bread, ideal for brunch gatherings.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs wonderfully with almond flavors, creating a savory complement to your sweet dish.
6. Smoothies: Blend up a refreshing smoothie with spinach, banana, and almond milk for a nutritious drink that pairs well with breakfast or brunch.
7. Almond Milk Latte: Enjoy slices of bread with an almond milk latte for an added nutty flavor that ties in beautifully with the main dish.
8. Chia Pudding: Chia pudding topped with berries serves as a healthy option that contrasts nicely with the richness of almond cherry bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Almond Cherry Bread, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the Preheating Step: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect rise.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precision. Incorrect measurements can lead to dense or overly dry bread.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the bread tough. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Ingredients like eggs and butter should be at room temperature for better incorporation. Cold ingredients can create a lumpy batter.
• Neglecting to Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the bread is done. If it comes out clean, it’s ready; otherwise, give it more time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the bread is completely cool before sealing.

Freezing Easy Almond Cherry Bread

• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Almond Cherry Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Almond Cherry Bread.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute.

How do I know when my almond cherry bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I replace Greek yogurt with something else?

You can use plain strained yogurt or even sour cream as an alternative to Greek yogurt in this recipe.

How do I store leftover almond cherry bread?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to five days.

Final Thoughts

Easy Almond Cherry Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits or nuts based on your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful treat that fits any occasion!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Almond Cherry Bread

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Easy Almond Cherry Bread, a perfect blend of moistness and sweetness that elevates any meal. This quick bread is infused with fresh cherries and aromatic almond extract, creating a deliciously unique treat that’s ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Enhanced with Greek yogurt and buttermilk, this recipe ensures a tender crumb without compromising on flavor. Plus, it’s simple enough for bakers of all skill levels to whip up in under 90 minutes! Whether enjoyed warm with butter or drizzled with a sweet almond glaze, this cherry almond loaf is sure to please everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups fresh cherries (pitted and quartered)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare an 8½-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and sugar until well combined.
3. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt; sift into the wet mixture and mix until just incorporated.
4. Toss cherries in cornstarch to coat lightly; fold into the batter along with sliced almonds.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and top with reserved cherries and almonds.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
7. For the glaze, whisk confectioner’s sugar with cream and almond extract until smooth; drizzle over cooled bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 110mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg