Print

Easy Almond Cherry Bread Recipe

4.8 from 134 reviews

This Easy Almond Cherry Bread is a moist and flavorful loaf combining the tartness of cherries with the nutty aroma of almond extract and crunchy sliced almonds. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, it’s topped with a smooth almond glaze that adds a lovely finishing touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 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

Dry Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp corn starch

Fruits and Nuts

  • 1 1/2 cups cherries (fresh or canned, pitted and quartered)
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Glaze

  • 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar
  • 1 to 2 tbsp cream
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8 ½-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and spray the sides lightly with nonstick baking spray to ensure easy removal of the bread.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, melted butter, almond extract, vanilla extract, and sugar. Beat on medium speed for several minutes until the eggs are fully blended and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, beating on medium speed for about one minute until the batter is smooth and uniform.
  4. Prepare Cherries and Add Ins: Pit and quarter the cherries. Toss them in corn starch to keep them from sinking during baking. Fold the cornstarch-coated cherries and sliced almonds into the batter gently by hand. Reserve a handful of cherries and almonds for topping.
  5. Fill Pan and Top: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Evenly scatter the reserved cherries and almonds over the top for a decorative finish.
  6. Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove the bread from the pan and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
  7. Prepare Almond Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the confectioner’s sugar, almond extract, and cream until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more confectioner’s sugar if desired.
  8. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the almond glaze over the cooled bread. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
  9. Storage: After the bread has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
  10. Enjoy and Share: Enjoy this delightful bread as a snack or breakfast treat. Consider leaving a comment or rating if you liked this recipe.

Notes

  • Fresh or canned cherries can be used; if using canned, drain well before tossing in cornstarch.
  • If you do not have buttermilk, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, left to sit for 5 minutes.
  • Ensure cherries are well coated in cornstarch to prevent browning and sinking in the batter.
  • The glaze consistency can be adjusted by adding more cream for thinner drizzle, or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.
  • Store the bread at room temperature, and consume within 3 days for best taste and texture.

Keywords: almond cherry bread, cherry loaf, almond glaze, easy quick bread, fruit bread, breakfast bread