Pin It A moist and flavorful quick bread featuring juicy cherries and nutty almonds—perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy treat with tea.
This cherry almond loaf cake quickly became a favorite in my family for special occasions and afternoon snacks.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp almond extract, 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk or buttermilk
- Add-ins: 1 cup (150 g) fresh or frozen pitted cherries halved (or use well-drained jarred cherries), 1/2 cup (60 g) sliced or slivered almonds, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for tossing cherries)
- Topping (optional): 2 tbsp sliced almonds, 1 tbsp coarse sugar
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour baking powder baking soda and salt.
- Step 3:
- In a small bowl toss the cherries with 2 tbsp flour to prevent sinking. Set aside.
- Step 4:
- In a large bowl cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Step 5:
- Beat in eggs one at a time then mix in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Step 6:
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two batches alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Step 7:
- Fold in the floured cherries and sliced almonds gently with a spatula.
- Step 8:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle with optional sliced almonds and coarse sugar.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 10:
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Pin It Baking this loaf often turns into a family event filled with laughter and delicious smells.
Required Tools
9x5-inch loaf pan Mixing bowls Electric mixer or whisk Spatula Measuring cups and spoons Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (dairy), tree nuts (almonds). If allergies are a concern verify all packaged ingredients and consider suitable substitutes.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 245 Total Fat: 10 g Carbohydrates: 34 g Protein: 4 g (per slice based on 10 slices)
Pin It Enjoy your cherry almond loaf cake fresh with tea or coffee for the best experience.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, soak dried cherries in warm water for 10 minutes, drain well, and toss with flour before adding to prevent sinking.
- → What does almond extract add to the loaf?
Almond extract imparts a nutty aroma and enhances the flavor of the almonds in the loaf. Adjust quantity to taste.
- → How do I prevent cherries from sinking in the batter?
Toss cherries with a bit of flour before folding into the batter; this helps distribute them evenly throughout the loaf.
- → Can I use buttermilk instead of whole milk?
Yes, buttermilk adds a slight tanginess and helps keep the loaf moist and tender.
- → What is the best way to serve this loaf?
Serve slices warm or at room temperature with tea, coffee, or dessert wine for a cozy and flavorful treat.
- → Is it possible to add a glaze to this loaf?
Yes, a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk complements the loaf’s flavors and adds extra sweetness.