Easy Almond Cherry Bread

The Easy Almond Cherry Bread  is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of fresh cherries and almonds. This bread is not only perfect for breakfast or brunch but also makes a wonderful dessert. With its moist texture, hint of almond, and creamy glaze, it’s sure to impress at any gathering or family meal. This recipe stands out with its use of Greek yogurt and buttermilk, ensuring a tender crumb that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cherries and almonds creates a sweet and nutty taste that’s hard to resist.
• Simple Ingredients: You can easily find all the ingredients in your local grocery store, making it accessible for everyone.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive gathering, this bread fits right in.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to Greek yogurt and buttermilk, the bread stays moist and soft, even days after baking.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful bread ready to bake in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (8 ½-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter (optional)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures the bread bakes evenly, creating the perfect shape for slicing.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine wet and dry ingredients separately, which leads to better mixing results.
• Hand mixer or whisk: Helps achieve the right consistency in your batter quickly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.

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 well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Mix together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Sift these dry ingredients into your wet mixture.
3. Beat on medium speed until just combined.

Step 4: Prepare Cherries

Pit the cherries if using fresh ones:
* Cut them into quarters.
* Toss them with cornstarch in a small bowl before adding them to the batter along with sliced almonds.

Step 5: Fold In Cherries and Almonds

Gently fold in the prepared cherries and almonds by hand into your batter. Reserve some for topping later.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
* Add reserved cherries and almonds on top.
* Bake in preheated oven for about 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked:
* Remove from loaf pan.
* Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 8: Make Almond Glaze

For the glaze:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine confectioner’s sugar, almond extract, and cream.
2. Whisk until smooth; adjust thickness by adding more sugar if desired.

Step 9: Drizzle & Store

Drizzle glaze over cooled bread:
* To store leftovers, wrap tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Almond Cherry Bread Don’t forget to leave feedback on this recipe!

How to Serve Easy Almond Cherry Bread

Easy Almond Cherry Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, its rich flavors and textures are sure to impress.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve slices with a side of fresh berries or sliced peaches. The natural sweetness complements the almond and cherry flavors beautifully.

Toasted with Butter

• Lightly toast each slice and spread a thin layer of butter on top. This adds a rich, creamy texture that enhances the bread’s taste.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey over each slice can elevate the flavors even more. It adds a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the almonds.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Top slices with a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert option. This makes it perfect for special occasions or gatherings.

Served with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy this bread alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The warm beverages complement the sweet notes of the bread nicely.

How to Perfect Easy Almond Cherry Bread

To make your Easy Almond Cherry Bread even better, follow these helpful tips to ensure great results every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bring your eggs, yogurt, and buttermilk to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep your bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Check doneness early: Start checking your bread at around 50 minutes to avoid overbaking. Every oven is different, so adjust as needed.
• Add extra cherries on top: For an added burst of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle some extra cherries on top before baking.
• Store properly: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh for longer and prevents it from drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Almond Cherry Bread

Pairing sides with Easy Almond Cherry Bread can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a refreshing side that complements the bread’s flavors.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the almond cherry bread.
3. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad adds freshness and brightness, making your meal vibrant and delicious.
4. Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese topped with nuts or seeds offers a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet breads.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl made from your favorite fruits adds nutrition and balances out the sweetness of the cherry bread.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy chia seed pudding brings a unique texture and healthy twist to your breakfast or brunch spread.
7. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach provides a nutritious side dish that complements the richness of the almond cherry bread perfectly.
8. Honey Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of honey-roasted nuts makes for an easy yet satisfying snack alongside slices of bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when it comes to creating the perfect Easy Almond Cherry Bread. Here are some common mistakes people make and how to avoid them.

• Incorrect Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little can affect the texture and flavor of your bread.
• Skipping the Cornstarch: Not tossing cherries in cornstarch can lead to excess moisture in your bread. This step helps absorb extra liquid and keeps your bread from becoming soggy.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can create dense bread. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the bread too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for better slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between slices if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Easy Almond Cherry Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for optimal freshness.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Almond Cherry Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C), wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I know when my Easy Almond Cherry Bread is done?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just thaw them completely and drain excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use plain strained yogurt or even sour cream as a substitute while maintaining similar moisture content.

Can I add nuts or other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding walnuts or other berries that you enjoy alongside the cherries and almonds.

Final Thoughts

Easy Almond Cherry Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert. Feel free to customize with different fruits or nuts based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!