Cherry Almond Bread – SouthernRambles

Cherry Almond Bread is a tender quick bread that pairs sweet-tart cherries with the warm, nutty aroma of almond extract. Using a classic muffin-style mixing method, this loaf bakes up moist with bursts of fruit and a lightly crisp crust. The finished bread is fragrant, soft, and perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist, Tender Crumb – Buttermilk and melted butter create a soft, bakery-style texture.
Bright Fruit Flavor – Cherries add juicy pops of sweetness and gentle tartness.
Aromatic Almond Notes – Almond extract enhances both the nuts and fruit.
Simple One-Bowl Technique – Quick bread method requires minimal equipment.
Versatile Serving Options – Works for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Optional Sweet Glaze – Adds a polished finish and extra flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the main structure of the loaf.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and tenderizes the crumb.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Supplies primary leavening.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Reacts with buttermilk for lift.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture.
2 large eggs – Bind ingredients and add structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor.
1 teaspoon almond extract – Intensifies almond aroma.
1 cup buttermilk – Provides moisture and slight tang.
1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped – Adds fruit flavor and texture.
1/2 cup sliced almonds – Contributes crunch and nutty taste.

For the Optional Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar – Forms a smooth, sweet glaze.
2–3 tablespoons milk – Thins the glaze to drizzle consistency.
1/2 teaspoon almond extract – Reinforces almond flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Proper preparation ensures easy release.

Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl until evenly blended. This distributes leavening agents.

Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, eggs, vanilla, almond extract, and buttermilk until smooth and emulsified.

Form the Batter
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Fold in cherries and sliced almonds evenly.

Bake the Bread
Transfer batter to the pan and smooth the top. Bake 50–60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.

Cool Completely
Let the bread rest in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool fully. Cooling sets the crumb.

Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust milk for desired thickness and drizzle over cooled bread.

Slice and Serve
Cut into even slices and serve plain or lightly buttered. The flavor improves as it rests.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Do Not Overmix – Gentle stirring prevents a tough loaf.
Use Cold Frozen Cherries – Add directly from frozen to avoid bleeding.
Toast the Almonds – Light toasting enhances nutty flavor.
Check Early for Doneness – Ovens vary; test at 50 minutes.
Tent with Foil if Needed – Prevents over-browning on top.
Cool Before Glazing – Warm bread will melt the glaze.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Calories: ~290 per slice (estimated)

Perfect Pairings

Hot Coffee or Tea – Complements almond aroma.
Greek Yogurt – Adds creamy contrast.
Fresh Fruit Salad – Enhances brightness.
Soft Whipped Butter – Adds richness.

Ideal Occasions

Weekend Brunch – Elegant yet simple centerpiece.
Afternoon Tea – Light and flavorful treat.
Holiday Breakfasts – Festive fruit flavor.
Bake Sales – Easy to slice and transport.

Storage & Serving Tips

Store Airtight – Keep at room temperature up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for Longer Storage – Extends freshness to 5 days.
Freeze Sliced Portions – Wrap individually for quick thawing.
Serve Slightly Warm – Enhances aroma and softness.

Creative Variations to Try

Chocolate Cherry Version – Add mini chocolate chips.
Orange Almond Twist – Add orange zest to batter.
Whole Wheat Blend – Replace part of the flour.
Coconut Glaze – Swap almond extract for coconut.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dense Texture – Overmixing or expired leavening.
Soggy Center – Underbaked; extend baking time.
Sunken Fruit – Toss cherries lightly in flour first.
Dry Loaf – Overbaking; check earlier next time.

Why This Recipe Works

This quick bread uses chemical leavening from baking powder and baking soda to create lift, while acidic buttermilk activates the soda for additional rise and tenderness. Melted butter coats flour proteins, limiting gluten development and producing a soft crumb. The balance of sugar and fruit moisture keeps the loaf tender, and almond extract amplifies the natural affinity between cherries and nuts. The finished bread achieves a moist, flavorful structure at roughly 290 calories per slice.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Almond Bread is a dependable, flavorful loaf that highlights the classic pairing of fruit and nuts. Its tender crumb and adaptable sweetness make it suitable for many occasions. For a lighter option, the glaze can be omitted or reduced, allowing the natural cherry and almond flavors to shine.