Almond Cherry Bread

Almond Cherry Bread is a tender, flavorful quick bread bursting with juicy cherries and nutty almond flavor. This festive loaf makes a delightful breakfast, snack, or dessert for holiday mornings, Christmas brunches, or any winter gathering.

The rich almond aroma pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart cherries, creating a loaf that’s both elegant and comforting. It’s easy to make, slices beautifully, and looks stunning on any holiday table.

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✨ Why You’ll Love This Bread

• Moist, soft texture with chunks of cherry and crunchy almond.
• Simple to make and perfect for gifting.
• Freezes well for make-ahead convenience.

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🎄 Best Times to Serve

• Holiday Breakfasts: A sweet start to a festive morning.
• Tea Parties: Pairs wonderfully with Earl Grey or chai tea.
• Dessert Table: Drizzle with icing and serve as a light dessert.

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🧁 Pro Tips

1. Toss cherries in a little flour to prevent sinking.
2. Use sliced almonds on top for a pretty finish.
3. Let the loaf cool before slicing for the cleanest cuts.

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🧾 Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract
• ¾ cup milk
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cherries (halved and pitted)
• ½ cup sliced almonds (plus extra for topping)

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📋 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
5. Gently fold in cherries and sliced almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle with extra almonds.
7. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

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🍴 Serving Suggestions

• Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
• Spread with softened butter or almond cream cheese.
• Serve slightly warm with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

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❄️ Storage Tips

• Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freeze slices individually for quick breakfasts—lasts up to 2 months.

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📊 Nutrition (Per Slice)

Approximate values: 280 calories, 12g fat, 38g carbs, 5g protein, 1g fiber.