Save to Pinterest A moist festive quick bread studded with juicy cherries and fragrant almonds & perfect for the holidays or any time you crave a simple elegant treat.
This cherry almond loaf cake quickly became a favorite at family gatherings thanks to its simple preparation and delightful taste.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour 1 ½ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients: ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar 2 large eggs ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp almond extract
- Add-ins: 1 cup (150 g) fresh or thawed frozen cherries pitted and halved (or use well-drained maraschino cherries) ½ cup (60 g) sliced almonds plus more for topping
- Optional Topping: 2 tbsp sliced almonds 2 tbsp coarse sugar
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl whisk together flour baking powder and salt. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Step 4:
- Beat in eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Step 5:
- Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture mix just until combined. Pour in the milk then add the remaining dry ingredients stirring gently until just incorporated.
- Step 6:
- Fold in cherries and sliced almonds.
- Step 7:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle with extra sliced almonds and coarse sugar if desired.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 50 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 9:
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Save to Pinterest This loaf has brought many shared moments around the table as everyone enjoys the balance of sweet cherries and nutty almonds.
Notes
For a glazed finish drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk once cooled. Delicious served with tea or coffee.
Required Tools
9x5-inch loaf pan Mixing bowls Electric mixer or whisk Measuring cups and spoons Rubber spatula Parchment paper Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) Eggs Milk (dairy) Tree Nuts (almonds) Butter (dairy) Always double-check ingredient labels especially for processed cherries.
Save to Pinterest This cherry almond loaf cake is a simple elegant treat ready to impress both family and guests alike.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can frozen cherries be used in this loaf?
Yes, thawed frozen cherries work well. Be sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- → How can I achieve a glazed finish on the loaf?
Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled loaf for a shiny, sweet glaze.
- → Is it possible to add citrus flavor to this loaf?
Adding orange zest to the batter introduces a fresh citrus note that complements the cherries and almonds nicely.
- → What is the best way to store leftover loaf slices?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to keep fresher longer.
- → Can I substitute another type of nut for almonds?
While almonds provide a distinct flavor and texture, chopped walnuts or pecans can be used as alternatives.