This Easy Classic Cherry Bread is wonderfully sweet and fruity, with juicy cherries in every bite. It’s a simple recipe that makes the kitchen smell amazing!
I love having a slice with my morning coffee—it’s like a little piece of summer! You could even toast it for a warm treat. Who can resist that? 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Maraschino Cherries: These sweet cherries give a lovely flavor and vibrant color to the bread. If you’re looking for something more natural, you can use fresh or frozen sour cherries, but you’ll need to adjust the sugar since they’re less sweet.
Butter: Unsalted butter is what I prefer for control of saltiness, but you can use salted butter if that’s what you have. Just reduce the added salt to a pinch.
Sour Cream/Yogurt: Either adds moisture and a subtle tang. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or an almond milk yogurt alternative—these work just as well and still keep the bread deliciously moist.
Glaze Ingredients: For the glaze, cherry juice gives a nice flavor, but if you don’t have it, milk also works. A splash of almond extract could also be a tasty addition!
How Do I Ensure My Cherry Bread Is Moist and Fluffy?
Getting the right texture can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you out:
- **Cream Butter and Sugar Well:** Mix them until light and fluffy. This adds air and promotes a lighter texture.
- **Do Not Overmix:** Once you add the flour, stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough.
- **Cool Properly:** Let it cool in the pan for a bit before transferring to a wire rack; this helps prevent a soggy bottom!
- **Check for Doneness:** Use a toothpick and look for a few crumbs when you pull it out. Too much moisture means it’s not baked through.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a cherry bread that is moist, fluffy, and bursting with flavor! Enjoy your baking!
Easy Classic Cherry Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (plus extra whole cherries for garnish)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice (or milk)
- A few drops of red or pink food coloring (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and 50-60 minutes for baking. Don’t forget to let it cool for a bit afterward! In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can dig in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This will help your glorious cherry bread to come out cleanly later.
2. Chop the Cherries:
Finely chop the maraschino cherries and set them aside. This way, they’ll distribute nicely throughout the bread!
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This adds a great texture to your bread!
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely flavor!
5. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
6. Mix it All Together:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture—this helps create a fluffy bread! Stir just until combined, being careful not to overmix!
7. Fold in the Cherries:
Gently fold in the chopped cherries with a spatula until they’re evenly mixed in. You don’t want to break them up too much!
8. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Get ready for that delicious smell!
9. Bake:
Pop the loaf pan into the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool the Bread:
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important for achieving the perfect texture!
11. Prepare the Glaze:
While the bread is cooling, make the glaze! In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with the cherry juice until smooth and pourable. Add a few drops of food coloring if you want a pop of color!
12. Drizzle & Garnish:
Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top and garnish with whole maraschino cherries for a lovely presentation!
13. Slice and Enjoy:
Let the glaze set for a little while, then it’s time to slice up your delicious cherry bread. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack!
Enjoy this moist, sweet cherry bread that’s sure to bring a smile to your face!
FAQ for Easy Classic Cherry Bread Recipe
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Maraschino Cherries?
Yes! You can use fresh or frozen sweet cherries for a more natural flavor. Just be sure to pit and chop them first. You may want to reduce the sugar in the recipe, as fresh cherries are less sweet than maraschino cherries.
What If My Batter Is Too Thick?
If the batter seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk or additional cherry juice to loosen it up. Be cautious not to overmix, as that can make the bread dense.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cherry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Can I Add Nuts or Other Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or almonds can add a great crunch. Feel free to mix in about 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts along with the cherries for some extra texture!
