Cherry Bread
There’s something undeniably charming about a loaf of Cherry Bread. It’s a delightful treat that brings sweetness and a pop of color to your table. This simple quick bread, filled with maraschino cherries, is perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to any day. And let’s not forget the almond cherry glaze drizzled on top, which takes this bread to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Can you tell I’ve been in a “pinkish” mood lately? You might have guessed with the vibrant pink cherry bread looking at you here. Just this month, we’ve been on a pink spree with cupcakes and cookies, much to the delight of my daughter, Kinslee. She absolutely adores these pinkalicious baked goods. They remind me of when she first started reading the Pinkalicious books, which were a huge hit. Those books were perfect for my little princess-loving reader, and they inspired us to create themed treats, like pink cupcakes with pink frosting, to encourage her reading journey.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cherry Bread is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The combination of sweet cherries and a hint of almond flavor is irresistible. Plus, it freezes well, making it a convenient option for make-ahead baking.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Food processor or knife
- 9″x5″ bread pan
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 jars maraschino cherries (10 ounces each)
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/3 cup maraschino cherry juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the sugar, milk, oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Drain the maraschino cherries, reserving the juice for the glaze. Coarsely chop the cherries using a food processor or a knife.
- Gently fold the chopped cherries into the batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9″x5″ bread pan.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To prepare the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, melted butter, cherry juice, and almond extract in a small bowl until smooth.
- Once the bread is completely cool, spread the glaze over the top. Slice and serve.
Tips for Success
- Add an extra teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the batter for a more intense flavor.
- If you prefer a more vibrant pink color, ensure your cherries contain red dye or add a few drops of red food coloring.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped almonds to the batter.
- Consider using dried cherries for a different texture and flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Based on the bread being cut into 10 slices, each slice contains approximately:
- Calories: 250 (estimate)
- Carbohydrates, fats, and protein content will vary based on specific brands used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you’ll need to pit and chop them first. The flavor will be slightly different, and the bread won’t have the same pink color without additional food coloring.
How should I store the cherry bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Cherry Bread is a delightful mix of flavors and colors that’s sure to brighten any occasion. Give it a try and let your taste buds revel in its sweet charm. We would love to hear how your Cherry Bread turns out, so feel free to share your experiences in the comments below!