Can frozen cherries be used in the loaf?

Yes, thaw frozen cherries and ensure they are well drained before folding into the batter to prevent extra moisture.

What is the best way to achieve a glazed finish?

Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled loaf for a glossy, sweet glaze.

Incorporate orange zest into the batter to add a bright, fresh citrus note that complements cherries and almonds.

Use a 9x5-inch loaf pan, mixing bowls, and an electric mixer or whisk for easy preparation and best results.

Dried cherries can be used but soak them in warm water for 10 minutes beforehand to rehydrate and soften.

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 in my family especially during holiday seasons when we want something sweet but not too heavy.

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

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.

My family loves gathering around to enjoy this loaf fresh from the oven especially with a cup of tea or coffee.

For a glazed finish drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk once cooled.

If fresh cherries are unavailable substitute with dried cherries use ¾ cup and soak in warm water for 10 minutes.

Try adding orange zest for a citrus note that complements the cherry and almond flavors beautifully.

This cherry almond loaf is perfect for holiday gifting or an elegant everyday treat that never disappoints.

→ Can frozen cherries be used in the loaf?: Yes, thaw frozen cherries and ensure they are well drained before folding into the batter to prevent extra moisture.
→ What is the best way to achieve a glazed finish?: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled loaf for a glossy, sweet glaze.
→ How can I add a citrus flavor to the loaf?: Incorporate orange zest into the batter to add a bright, fresh citrus note that complements cherries and almonds.
→ What tools are recommended for preparing this loaf?: Use a 9x5-inch loaf pan, mixing bowls, and an electric mixer or whisk for easy preparation and best results.
→ Is it possible to substitute dried cherries?: Dried cherries can be used but soak them in warm water for 10 minutes beforehand to rehydrate and soften.