There is something utterly delightful about a slice of Cherry Bread with Almond Glaze Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This bread is a perfect balance of sweet, moist cherry goodness nestled inside a tender crumb, all topped with a luscious almond glaze that adds a dreamy, nutty finish. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast treat, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a showstopping dessert, this cherry bread brings joy in every bite, combining bright fruitiness and delicate almond flavor into one irresistible loaf.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays a key role in making this bread a star. From the creamy richness of milk and oil to the sweet pop of maraschino cherries and the fragrant almond extract, every element works together for the perfect texture, flavor, and look.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the essential sweetness that balances the tart cherries beautifully.
- 1/2 cup milk: Brings moisture to the batter, resulting in a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil): Keeps the bread moist and soft without overpowering other flavors.
- 1 large egg: Provides structure and richness to the loaf.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: Infuses the bread and glaze with that unmistakable almond aroma and flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread, giving it its hearty and satisfying texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise for a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure proper leavening.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 jars (20 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped: These sweet, colorful bites are the star ingredient, bursting with flavor throughout the bread.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the luscious almond glaze.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the glaze.
- 1/3 cup cherry juice (reserved from cherries): Provides that beautiful cherry flavor and helps create the perfect glaze consistency.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (for glaze): Ties the glaze back to the bread with a complementary almond note.
How to Make Cherry Bread with Almond Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring a 9”x5” loaf pan is key so your cherry bread releases effortlessly after baking. Taking this step seriously will give your bread a beautiful crust and perfect shape.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, oil, egg, and almond extract. This mixture is where the magic begins, combining moisture and flavor to create a rich and tender base that will carry all those yummy cherries.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients are the backbone, giving the bread structure while ensuring it rises just right. Mixing them well helps distribute the leavening agents evenly.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Carefully add the dry ingredients to your wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here; overworking the batter can make your bread tough instead of tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Chopped Cherries
Now for the fun part — gently fold in those beautifully bright, chopped maraschino cherries. This adds bursts of sweet flavor and color throughout your bread, making every slice a little celebration.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps the bread set perfectly.
Step 7: Prepare and Add the Almond Glaze
While your bread cools, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, cherry juice, and almond extract until smooth and glossy. Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle this luscious glaze over the top, allowing it to gently soak in and form a shiny, flavorful finish.
How to Serve Cherry Bread with Almond Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
A light sprinkle of sliced almonds over the glaze adds a lovely crunch and a visual hint of the almond flavor beneath. You might also add a few whole maraschino cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra charm and sweetness.
Side Dishes
This cherry bread pairs beautifully with a simple cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect breakfast or afternoon treat. For a more indulgent spread, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to turn it into a dessert everyone will remember.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the loaf! Slice and toast the bread lightly, then spread with almond butter or cream cheese for an irresistible snack. You can also cut into cubes and serve with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey for a delightful brunch centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover cherry bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain that perfect moist texture and keeps the flavors vibrant.
Freezing
If you want to keep the goodness for longer, cherry bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf securely in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to three months and thaw quickly when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
When you’re ready to indulge again, warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave just until heated through. If you froze the bread with glaze, you may want to add a fresh drizzle of glaze or a light spread of butter to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can add a wonderful natural tartness and juiciness. Just be sure to pit and chop them finely. You may want to reduce added sugar slightly, as fresh cherries are less sweet than maraschino.
Is there a substitute for almond extract?
If almond extract isn’t your favorite, vanilla extract works well as a substitute, though the bread won’t have the same nutty aroma. You can also experiment with a hint of cherry or amaretto flavoring for a twist.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The best test is the toothpick method: insert a toothpick into the center of the bread, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. If it’s still wet or sticky, give it a few more minutes and check again.
Can I make mini loaves or muffins with this recipe?
Yes! Mini loaves or muffins are a fun variation and bake more quickly—typically 20-25 minutes for muffins. Just keep an eye on them as baking times can vary, and reduce time accordingly to avoid over-baking.
What’s the best way to drizzle the almond glaze?
Use a spoon to create a thin, even drizzle over the completely cooled bread. You can also spoon the glaze into a small plastic bag, snip a tiny corner, and pipe it neatly across the loaf for a prettier finish.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Cherry Bread with Almond Glaze Recipe will quickly remind you why it’s a beloved classic—full of warmth, sweetness, and welcoming flavors. Whether you bake it for yourself or share it with loved ones, it’s sure to bring smiles and satisfy those sweet cravings in the most comforting way possible. Give it a try and let this lovely bread become one of your new favorites!
Print
Cherry Bread with Almond Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cherry Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread bursting with juicy maraschino cherries and a hint of almond extract. Topped with a sweet cherry glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 jars (20 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/3 cup cherry juice (reserved from cherries)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9″x5″ loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine granulated sugar, milk, canola oil, egg, and almond extract. Whisk together until well blended to create a smooth base.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in Cherries: Gently fold the chopped maraschino cherries into the batter, ensuring even distribution without crushing them.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, reserved cherry juice, and almond extract until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the bread is fully cooled, drizzle the cherry glaze over the top. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For a nut-free version, ensure the almond extract is safe or substitute with vanilla extract.
- Drain cherries well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- If you prefer, substitute canola oil with vegetable oil.
- Use fresh cherries for a different flavor but reduce added cherry juice in glaze accordingly.
- Store leftovers wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
