Quick Overview

If you are looking for a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of almonds with the sweetness of cherries, then this Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe is perfect for you. This quick bread is ideal for breakfast or as a snack any time of the day. With its moist texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The simplicity of this recipe means you can whip it up in no time and impress your family and friends. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Ingredient Breakdown

All-Purpose Flour

To start off our Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe, you will need 2 cups of all-purpose flour. This base ingredient provides structure to the bread while keeping it light and fluffy.

Sugar

Next, add 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. The sugar not only sweetens the bread but also contributes to its moistness by creating a tender crumb.

Baking Powder

Incorporate 1 tablespoon of baking powder into the mixture. This leavening agent helps the bread rise beautifully, giving it a light texture.

Salt

Use 1/2 teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients. A pinch of salt balances sweetness and adds depth to the overall taste.

Milk

You will need 1 cup of milk for moisture. Whole milk works best as it adds richness; however, you can use low-fat alternatives if preferred.

Eggs

Include 2 large eggs in your mix. Eggs act as binding agents while providing additional moisture and helping the bread rise.

Chopped Cherries

For this recipe, add 1 cup of fresh or frozen chopped cherries. The juicy bursts from the cherries provide an incredible flavor that complements the almonds perfectly.

Sliced Almonds

Lastly, incorporate 1/2 cup of sliced almonds into your batter. These nuts give a lovely crunch and an added layer of nutty flavor to your bread.

Step By step Recipe: Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe

Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your oven beforehand ensures even baking and helps achieve that desired golden-brown crust on top.

Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or butter. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal after baking. This step prevents sticking and allows for smooth slicing once baked.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps in your mixture to ensure uniform distribution of flavors throughout your bread.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the eggs and milk until frothy. Mixing these wet ingredients separately helps achieve a smoother batter when combined with dry ingredients later on.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as everything is just combined for optimal texture.

Fold In Cherries and Almonds

Gently fold in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds into your batter using a spatula. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout without breaking up too much fruit.

Pour Batter into Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. This preparation helps ensure an even rise during baking and creates an appealing finish.

Bake Your Bread

Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking.

Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allowing it to cool properly ensures cleaner slices when cut.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serve Fresh

Enjoy this Easy Almond Cherry Bread fresh out of the oven for maximum flavor! It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea during breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Store at Room Temperature

If you have leftovers, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. This keeps your bread fresh without drying it out too quickly.

Refrigerate for Longer Storage

For longer storage options, wrap your bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator where it can last up to one week without losing moisture.

Freeze for Future Enjoyment

You can freeze slices of this delicious bread by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Frozen slices can last up to three months; just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Mistakes to avoid

When making the Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe, one common mistake is not measuring ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision and ensure you follow the recipe closely. Incorrect measurements can lead to dense or overly dry bread, ruining the texture and flavor.

Another mistake is overmixing the batter. Mixing too much can develop gluten, resulting in a tough loaf. Stir ingredients just until combined for a tender crumb. Also, avoid using stale almonds or cherries; fresh ingredients significantly impact taste and texture.

Don’t skip preheating the oven. A properly heated oven helps the bread rise evenly and develop a golden crust. Lastly, avoid opening the oven door frequently while baking, as this can cause temperature fluctuations that affect your bread’s final outcome.

Tips and tricks

One great tip for your Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe is to toast the almonds before adding them to the batter. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Simply place them on a baking sheet at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown.

Consider using almond extract alongside vanilla extract for an added depth of flavor. This combination complements the cherries beautifully and intensifies the almond essence. Just a teaspoon of each will do wonders in elevating the taste profile of your bread.

If you want to add some moisture to your Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe, incorporate Greek yogurt into the batter. This ingredient not only adds richness but also keeps your bread soft and fluffy. Substitute about half of the butter with yogurt for a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

Finally, let your bread cool completely before slicing it. Cooling allows the crumb structure to set properly, preventing it from becoming gummy when cut. Patience will reward you with perfect slices every time!

Suggestions for Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe

For variations on your Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe, consider experimenting with different types of nuts or dried fruits. Pecans or walnuts can provide unique flavors that blend well with cherries’ sweetness. Dried cranberries could also be an excellent alternative for a tart twist.

You may also try adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance your bread’s aroma and flavor profile. These spices pair wonderfully with both almonds and cherries, creating an inviting scent while baking.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider substituting whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients while still producing delicious results. Just remember that you might need to adjust liquids slightly due to its absorbency.

Lastly, serve this Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe with cream cheese or butter spread on top. These toppings not only add richness but also complement the flavors beautifully while providing an enjoyable dining experience.

FAQs

What makes this Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe special?

This Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe stands out because it combines sweet cherries with crunchy almonds in a moist loaf that’s simple to make. The balance of flavors creates a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or snack time.

Can I use frozen cherries in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen cherries can be used in this Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe without any issues. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand and drain excess liquid to maintain the right batter consistency.

How long should I bake my almond cherry bread?

Bake your Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe at 350°F for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Oven variations can affect baking time, so keep an eye on it towards the end.

Can I replace almonds with another nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute almonds with any other nut of your choice in this Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe. Walnuts or pecans are great alternatives that will still provide fantastic texture and flavor.

How should I store leftover almond cherry bread?

To store leftover Easy Almond Cherry Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap.

Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Yes! Adding chocolate chips can create an indulgent twist on your Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe. Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich flavor that pairs nicely with both almonds and cherries.

Summary

In summary, making an Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe requires careful attention to detail but offers delicious rewards. Avoid common mistakes like improper measurements and overmixing while following helpful tips such as incorporating Greek yogurt or toasted nuts for enhanced flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with variations like different nuts or spices, ensuring you enjoy every slice of this delightful bread!