If you have a sweet tooth and a love for irresistible baked treats, then you are about to fall head over heels for this Sweet Soft Cherry Bread with Cherry-Almond Glaze Recipe. Bursting with juicy maraschino cherries and enveloped in a tender, buttery crumb, this bread offers a delicate almond and cherry glaze that takes every bite to a new level of dreamy deliciousness. It’s perfect for sharing at brunch, brightening up afternoon tea, or simply indulging when you need a little pick-me-up. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for every season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sweet Soft Cherry Bread with Cherry-Almond Glaze Recipe lies in its simplicity and carefully chosen ingredients. Each component not only adds flavor but also enhances the texture and visual appeal of the bread, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.
- 10-ounce jar maraschino cherries (divided): These bright, sweet cherries bring bursts of flavor and pretty pops of color throughout the bread.
- 1 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (divided): Flour creates the soft crumb and helps prevent cherries from sinking when tossed with a bit extra for coating.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the tart cherry flavor.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: This gives the bread its light, airy rise without being too dense.
- Pinch of salt (optional): A subtle enhancer to bring other flavors forward.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture to keep the bread wonderfully soft.
- 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil: Oil ensures the crumb stays tender and moist, far better than butter in this recipe.
- Cherry juice (reserve 1/4 cup): Enhances cherry flavor and adds moisture for both batter and glaze.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: A must-have flavor note that beautifully complements the cherries.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
- About 1 1/2 cups+ confectioners’ sugar: Craft the smooth, sweet glaze to finish the bread perfectly.
How to Make Sweet Soft Cherry Bread with Cherry-Almond Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Cherries
Start by preheating your oven to 350F and prepping two 8×4-inch loaf pans with floured cooking spray or a light grease and flour coating to prevent sticking. Removing the cherries from the jar and roughly chopping them gives you lovely bursts of cherry flavor in every bite. Toss the chopped cherries with 2 tablespoons of flour to keep them suspended evenly throughout the batter so they don’t sink to the bottom during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and an optional pinch of salt. This mix provides the perfect foundation for rise and sweetness.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk the eggs, oil, all but 1/4 cup of the reserved cherry juice, almond extract, and vanilla extract together until combined. This mixture brings moisture, flavor, and that charming cherry essence to the bread.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry and gently stir to combine. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the bread wonderfully tender. Fold in the flour-coated chopped cherries carefully to distribute them evenly without smashing.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops gently. Place a few whole cherries on top for a pretty finish. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the bread feels springy and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, no raw batter. Let the bread cool in the pans for 15 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to finish cooling.
Step 6: Make the Cherry-Almond Glaze
While the bread cools, whisk together 1/4 cup reserved cherry juice, almond extract, and about 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar until smooth and silky. Adjust with more sugar to reach the perfect spreadable glaze consistency. Don’t skimp on glazing—it’s the magical touch that elevates this bread to something truly special.
Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy!
Glaze the bread evenly before serving. If you want to be adventurous, spread extra glaze inside each slice, as it adds an exquisite moistness and flavor punch that you won’t regret.
How to Serve Sweet Soft Cherry Bread with Cherry-Almond Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Consider a sprinkle of slivered almonds or a few more maraschino cherries on top for extra flair. A light dusting of confectioners’ sugar right before serving also adds a snow-kissed effect that looks as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or tea, fresh fruit salad, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent brunch or dessert. The soft texture and sweet glaze complement fresh berries and creamy yogurts perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this bread as mini loaves or muffins is a fun twist if you want individual portions for a party or picnic. You might also layer slices into a trifle with whipped cream and cherries for a delightful showstopper dessert. The glaze doubles wonderfully as a dip for fresh fruit as well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The glaze helps keep it moist, but if it starts to dry out, wrapping it in plastic wrap can prolong freshness.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before bringing to room temperature.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds to revive that soft, fresh-baked feel. You can even add a little extra glaze after reheating for a fresh burst of flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While fresh or frozen cherries can be used, maraschino cherries offer a unique sweetness and color that fresh ones don’t replicate exactly. If using fresh or frozen, you may want to adjust the sugar slightly and be sure to drain excess juice well.
Is there a way to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture may vary slightly but the flavor will still be delightful.
Can I make this bread in one large loaf pan?
Absolutely. You can use a 9×5-inch pan instead of two 8×4-inch pans. Just keep an eye on baking time; it may take a bit longer. Start checking around 45 minutes and keep testing until the toothpick comes out clean.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
If almond extract isn’t available, you can substitute it with an additional 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or a small amount of amaretto liqueur for that lovely almond flavor.
How long will the glaze stay fresh on the bread?
The glaze is best eaten the day it’s applied for maximum freshness and shine. However, it can hold up for a day or two at room temperature. If storing longer, a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar may help keep the appearance fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Soft Cherry Bread with Cherry-Almond Glaze Recipe is like a warm hug in bread form—soft, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe brings cozy comfort with every bite and a touch of elegance with the cherry-almond glaze. I hope you enjoy this as much as I do, and that it becomes one of your beloved staples whenever you crave something sweet, soft, and unforgettable.
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Sweet Soft Cherry Bread with Cherry-Almond Glaze Recipe
This Sweet Soft Cherry Bread is a delightful, moist quick bread studded with maraschino cherries and finished with a luscious cherry-almond glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, this bread combines almond and vanilla extracts for a fragrant and flavorful treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
Ingredients
Cherry Bread
- 1 (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries, divided
- 1 3/4 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt (optional and to taste)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
- Cherry juice from the jar (reserve 1/4 cup for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cherry-Almond Glaze
- 1/4 cup reserved cherry juice
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- About 1 to 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8×4-inch loaf pans or spray with floured cooking spray. Set the pans aside to prepare the batter.
- Prepare cherries: Remove the cherries from the jar and roughly chop them on a cutting board. Sprinkle the chopped cherries with 2 tablespoons of flour to prevent them from sinking during baking, then toss to coat evenly. Set the cherries and reserved cherry juice aside.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt if using. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a small mixing bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk together the eggs, oil, all the cherry juice from the jar except for 1/4 cup reserved for the glaze, almond extract, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Make the batter: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and gently stir to combine. Be careful not to overmix; the batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.
- Fold in cherries: Gently fold the floured chopped cherries into the batter to distribute them evenly without crushing them.
- Fill pans and bake: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops lightly with a spatula. Optionally, place a few whole cherries on top for visual appeal. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the bread is domed, springy to the touch, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Then, carefully remove the loaves from the pans and allow them to cool completely on the rack.
- Make the glaze: While the bread cools, combine the reserved 1/4 cup cherry juice, almond extract, and about 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and satiny. Add more confectioners’ sugar as needed to reach your desired glaze consistency.
- Glaze and serve: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread before serving. For extra indulgence, spread the glaze like butter on the interior of the slices.
Notes
- You can bake this recipe in one 9×5-inch pan, as four mini loaves, or as muffins; however, baking times will need adjustment.
- Coating the cherries with flour helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
- The glaze can be adjusted to your preferred sweetness and thickness by adding more or less confectioners’ sugar.
- For a more decorative finish, reserve a few whole cherries to place on top of the batter before baking.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
