This Classic Cherry Bread is a fruity delight with vibrant cherries mixed into a soft, fluffy bread. It’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack any time of the day!
Every slice brings a burst of cherry goodness that makes my taste buds dance! I love to enjoy it warm with a little butter or toasted—so delicious! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This flour gives the bread structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve had good luck with Bob’s Red Mill products for baking.
Maraschino Cherries: These add a fun sweetness and color. Fresh or frozen cherries can be used, just remember to pit and chop them. You can also swap in dried cherries for a chewier texture and different flavor.
Buttermilk: It keeps the bread moist and tender. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix one cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Walnuts: They offer a nice crunch. If you prefer, you can swap them with other nuts like pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
What’s the Best Way to Mix the Batter Without Overdoing It?
Mixing batter can be tricky, especially when trying to keep it light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, so here are some tips to get it just right:
- Start with the dry ingredients. Whisk them thoroughly to avoid lumps before adding wet components.
- Add the butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla all at once to the dry mix. Using an electric mixer on low speed works well, but don’t go for more than a minute!
- When folding in the cherries and walnuts, use a spatula and make gentle motions to coat everything without breaking cherries or causing the batter to deflate.
How to Make Classic Cherry Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and around 55-65 minutes for baking. After that, allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan and then let it cool completely on a wire rack. So, in total, set aside about 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy your delicious cherry bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will help to evenly distribute the ingredients and ensure your bread has a nice rise.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Add the softened butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Using a mixer, stir everything together until it’s well combined and the batter is smooth. Don’t worry if a few little lumps remain; it should be thick but creamy!
4. Add in Cherries and Walnuts:
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and, if using, the chopped walnuts. Be careful not to over-mix, just enough so that the cherries and nuts are distributed evenly in the batter.
5. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into your prepped loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top a bit; it doesn’t have to be perfect!
6. Bake the Bread:
Pop the loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-baking!
7. Cool the Bread:
Once baked, take the bread out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the Icing:
As the bread cools, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract (if you’re using it) until it’s nice and smooth. This icing will give your bread a lovely finish!
9. Ice the Bread:
Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the icing over the top. Allow the icing a few minutes to set before you start slicing.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your classic cherry bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. It makes for a delightful breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Maraschino Cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just pit and chop them, then use about 1 cup. Keep in mind that fresh cherries may make the bread slightly less sweet than maraschino cherries, so consider adding a tablespoon or two of extra sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this cherry bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. You might also need to adjust the liquid slightly, as some gluten-free blends can absorb more moisture.
Can I Freeze This Cherry Bread?
Absolutely! After the cherry bread has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cherry Bread?
Store leftover cherry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator. If you prefer it warm, slice off a piece and microwave it for a few seconds before enjoying!
