Cherry Bread Recipe (Easy & Delicious!)

Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy slice of bread bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of cherries. Whether you’re a baking beginner or already love creating in the kitchen, this recipe will quickly become a favorite treat.

This cherry bread is not just delicious; it’s also fun and easy to make, perfect for young bakers like you! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll create a masterpiece that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

Picture yourself sharing warm slices of this fruity bread with friends or enjoying it during a cozy snack break. The bright cherries add a pop of flavor and color that will impress everyone who takes a bite.

Ready to bake your first loaf? Grab your apron, follow the steps below, and get ready to create a treat that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: Thanks to sour cream, milk, and cherry juice, this bread is tender and moist.
• Beautifully Vibrant: The maraschino cherries add a pop of color, making it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
• Easy to Make: No fancy equipment is needed; it comes together quickly with minimal effort.
• Versatile: Great as a gift, for parties, or simply as a family treat.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The almond glaze takes it to the next level, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Mixing Bowls: At least two bowls for wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: For mixing ingredients.
• Spatula: To fold in the cherries gently.
• 9×5-inch Loaf Pan: A standard loaf pan works perfectly.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the bread evenly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.

Ingredients for Cherry Bread

For the Bread:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract: Enhances the cherry flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances the flavors.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist.
• 1/2 cup milk: Ensures a tender crumb.
• 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice: Infuses the bread with cherry flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Provides structure and richness.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and moisture.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise.
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped: The star ingredient.

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar: Creates a smooth and sweet glaze.
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk: Adjusts the glaze’s consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Complements the cherry flavor.
• 1-2 drops cherry extract or 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice: Enhances the cherry essence.

Variations for Cherry Bread

• Add Nuts: Fold in ½ cup of chopped almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
• Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• Dried Cherries: Use dried cherries instead of maraschino for a more tart flavor.
• Citrus Kick: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy brightness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, almond extract, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, milk, cherry juice, eggs, and sour cream until smooth and well combined.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.

4. Fold It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.

5. Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, tent it with foil.

6. Cool and Glaze

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, almond extract, and cherry juice to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the bread and let it set before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea.
• Dessert: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Snack: Pair with a glass of milk for an afternoon pick-me-up.
• Gift: Wrap it in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Storing Cherry Bread

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Extend freshness by refrigerating for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Cherry Bread FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Absolutely! Pit and chop fresh cherries, but note that they may release more moisture, so you might need to slightly reduce the milk.

How do I prevent the cherries from sinking?

Toss the chopped cherries in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps keep them evenly distributed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. Baking time may vary slightly.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

You can substitute it with vanilla extract, but almond extract enhances the cherry flavor beautifully.

Nutrition Information (Per Slice)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	120mg
Total Carbohydrates	32g
Sugars	18g
Protein	3g

Conclusion

This Cherry Bread is a delightful combination of sweet cherries and a moist, tender crumb. The almond glaze adds a touch of elegance, making it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Enjoy every bite!