Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the sweet, irresistible scent of fresh cherries baking into a golden loaf. That’s how I felt when I first made this Cherry Bread, a delightful treat that brightens any morning or afternoon break. The combination of juicy cherries, rich butter, and a hint of sweet vanilla creates a symphony of flavors that’s truly satisfying.
I discovered this recipe on a sunny afternoon, after realizing I had a bag of beautiful fresh cherries begging to be used. With just a handful of pantry staples, I transformed these ripe gems into a warm bread that would leave my family craving more.
This Cherry Bread is not only a feast for the senses but also incredibly easy to whip up. Perfect for those who want to escape the fast-food rut and embrace the joy of homemade goodness, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and moisture. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Join me in making a loaf that embodies love and comfort!
Why You'll Love This Cherry Bread
- This Cherry Bread is a breeze to make, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time and using simple pantry staples.
- The irresistible combination of fresh cherries and rich, buttery flavor creates a deliciously moist loaf that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Its versatility means you can enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Plus, the stunning golden color and juicy cherry chunks create a visual delight that will impress your family and friends.
Cherry Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
• Fresh cherries – pitted and chopped for a burst of sweet flavor that makes this Cherry Bread irresistible.
• All-purpose flour – the base that gives the bread its structure and lightness.
• Granulated sugar – adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the cherries.
• Brown sugar – brings a hint of molasses flavor for added depth.
• Baking powder – helps the bread rise to achieve a fluffy texture.
• Salt – enhances the overall flavors and balances sweetness.
• Large eggs – provide richness and stability to the batter.
• Whole milk – contributes moisture for a tender crumb.
• Melted butter – infuses the bread with a rich, buttery taste and helps keep it moist.
This Cherry Bread is sure to delight everyone at the table!
How to Make Cherry Bread
-
Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan to ensure your Cherry Bread lifts out effortlessly once baked.
-
Whisk the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This blend sets a foundation for your delicious bread.
-
Beat the wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and melted butter together until frothy. This mixture adds moisture and richness, ensuring your bread is delightful and tender.
-
Combine mixtures: Gently fold the chopped cherries into the wet ingredients, then pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the bread fluffy and light.
-
Bake to perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool slightly before slicing to enjoy its fragrant goodness.
Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cherry Bread?
Imagine pairing the delightful, fruity notes of Cherry Bread with some equally enticing sides that elevate your meal experience to new heights.
-
Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds a tangy creaminess that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the bread. It's a refreshing start to your day!
-
Cinnamon Honey Butter: Spread this sweet, spiced concoction over warm slices for an indulgent twist that enlivens each bite.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits offers a light, crisp contrast that enhances the juicy cherry flavor. Every bite feels like a summer’s day.
-
Coffee or Tea: Sipping on a warm cup of coffee or fragrant tea accentuates the comforting nature of Cherry Bread, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for a leisurely brunch.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful dessert, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the flavors to meld together into a heavenly experience.
-
Toasted Almonds: A sprinkle of crunchy, toasted almonds on top adds a nutty flavor and texture contrast, perfectly complementing the cherries’ moisture.
-
Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing drinks are perfect companions, balancing the sweetness of the bread with a zesty or refreshing note.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Bread preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugars, baking powder, and salt) and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, which helps streamline your baking process. The cherries can be chopped and refrigerated up to 24 hours before use to keep them fresh and sweet. When you're ready to bake, simply combine the prepped dry ingredients with the wet ones and fold in the cherries as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked Cherry Bread with minimal fuss, bringing the warmth and comfort of homemade goodness to your kitchen quickly!
Cherry Bread Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists and make this Cherry Bread uniquely yours!
- Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- **Nutty: **Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the juicy cherries beautifully. The addition of nuts gives a satisfying bite in every slice.
- Spiced: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor that perfectly pairs with the sweetness of the cherries.
- Chocolate Chip: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a delightful contrast that adds richness to the bread. The melted chocolate will create sweet pockets that elevate each bite.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe accessible for everyone. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for adequate structure.
- Citrusy: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange for a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the sweetness of the cherries, creating a refreshing twist. A hint of citrus can brighten up any loaf!
- Sour Cream: Replace half of the milk with sour cream for an ultra-moist bread that adds a subtle tanginess. This will keep your slices incredibly tender and rich.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to introduce a surprising heat that beautifully contrasts with the sweet cherries. It's a bold twist that adventurous eaters will love!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Bread
Room Temperature: Keep the Cherry Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend the shelf life, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, slice the Cherry Bread and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. It will last for up to 3 months, and you can enjoy it anytime!
Reheating: To enjoy it warmed, pop a slice in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds, and savor the delightful aroma as it revives.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Cherry Bread, always ensure your cherries are pitted and chopped evenly for consistent bursts of flavor throughout the loaf.
- Avoid overmixing the batter after combining wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired light and fluffy result.
- For a richer taste, using a combination of granulated and brown sugar enhances the depth of flavor while balancing the tartness of the cherries.
- Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; if your bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while still allowing it to bake through.
Cherry Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for plump, firm fruits with vibrant color and no dark spots. Fresh cherries should be shiny and have green stems. Ideally, choose ones that are in-season for the best flavor, as they'll be sweeter and juicier, enhancing the overall taste of your Cherry Bread.
How should I store my Cherry Bread to keep it fresh?
To maintain freshness, store your Cherry Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to extend its life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze Cherry Bread? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Cherry Bread, and it's quite simple! Slice the bread first, then wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices into a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just take a slice out and thaw it at room temperature, or pop it in the toaster for a warm treat!
What should I do if my Cherry Bread comes out too dense?
Very often, a dense Cherry Bread is a result of overmixing the batter. To remedy this for next time, ensure you combine your wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Additionally, check that your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can prevent proper rise. If you're still facing issues, try sifting the flour first to aerate it, which contributes to a lighter texture.
Can I make this Cherry Bread allergy-friendly?
Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For dairy-free, use almond milk or another non-dairy milk instead of whole milk, and replace melted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Be mindful of using cherries that are free from additives if allergies are a major concern. Adapt it the way your loved ones need, and they’ll enjoy it just the same!
Is this Cherry Bread safe for pets?
While this Cherry Bread is a delightful treat for humans, it's best to keep it away from pets, particularly dogs. Cherries can be harmful to them, especially the pits which contain cyanide. General rule of thumb: avoid sharing baked goods that contain sugar and rich ingredients with your furry friends to keep them safe and healthy!
Cherry Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat eggs, milk, and melted butter until frothy.
- Fold the chopped cherries into the wet ingredients, then pour into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Leave a Reply