Introduction to Classic Cherry Bread Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air! Today, I’m excited to share my Classic Cherry Bread Recipe with you. This delightful bread is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a quick solution for those busy mornings or a lovely snack to impress your loved ones. Imagine slicing into a warm loaf, the sweet cherries peeking through the soft, fluffy texture. It’s the perfect way to brighten your day, whether you’re a busy mom or a professional on the go. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Cherry Bread Recipe
This Classic Cherry Bread Recipe is a game-changer for anyone juggling a busy schedule. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 15 minutes of prep time. The sweet, juicy cherries add a burst of flavor that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve at breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. Trust me, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients for Classic Cherry Bread Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Classic Cherry Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your bread, providing structure and a soft texture.
- Fresh or frozen cherries: The star of the show! They add sweetness and a pop of color. If using frozen, just make sure they’re pitted and halved.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener balances the tartness of the cherries, making every bite delightful.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter creates a rich flavor and helps achieve that fluffy texture.
- Large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and add moisture to the bread.
- Milk: This adds creaminess and helps keep the bread moist.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it even more inviting.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bread rise, giving it that lovely fluffy quality.
- Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure your bread is light and airy.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
For those looking to elevate the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract. It pairs beautifully with cherries!
All the exact measurements for these ingredients are at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the kitchen.
How to Make Classic Cherry Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect rise. While the oven warms up, grab a loaf pan and grease it well with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure your Classic Cherry Bread releases easily after baking. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a loaf that sticks!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The fluffiness is key, as it helps to incorporate air into the batter, giving your bread that delightful texture. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and creamy!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Mix
Now, it’s time to add the eggs! Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. It’s like giving your batter a little love! The eggs will help bind everything together and add moisture, making your Classic Cherry Bread rich and delicious.
Step 4: Incorporate Milk and Vanilla
Next, stir in the milk and vanilla extract. This step adds a lovely creaminess and enhances the flavor of your bread. Mix until everything is well combined. The aroma of vanilla will start to fill your kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug. It’s these little touches that make baking so special!
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is important to ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour. It helps your Classic Cherry Bread rise beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to get a little arm workout in while you’re at it!
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I like to do this in three parts, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread. You want a light and fluffy texture, so mix until you see no dry flour. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy; that’s just part of the charm!
Step 7: Fold in Cherries
Here comes the fun part—folding in the cherries! Gently add the pitted and halved cherries to the batter. Use a spatula to fold them in carefully, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without breaking them apart. The cherries will add bursts of sweetness and color to your Classic Cherry Bread, making it visually appealing and delicious!
Step 8: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, and your family will be eagerly waiting for a slice!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to remove. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with a pat of butter. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- For extra cherry flavor, reserve a few cherries to place on top before baking.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Let the bread cool completely for easier slicing.
Equipment Needed
- Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best, but any similar size will do.
- Mixing bowls: Use one large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry.
- Whisk or hand mixer: Either will help you achieve that fluffy batter.
- Spatula: Perfect for folding in cherries and smoothing the batter.
- Wire rack: Essential for cooling your bread evenly.
Variations of Classic Cherry Bread Recipe
- Chocolate Chip Cherry Bread: Add a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent twist that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
- Nutty Cherry Bread: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Vegan Cherry Bread: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and butter.
- Spiced Cherry Bread: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Classic Cherry Bread Recipe
- Serve warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Top with whipped cream and fresh cherries for a beautiful dessert presentation.
- Slice and toast for a crunchy breakfast option.
FAQs about Classic Cherry Bread Recipe
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this Classic Cherry Bread Recipe. Just make sure they’re pitted and halved before adding them to the batter. No need to thaw them; they’ll bake beautifully!
How should I store the cherry bread?
To keep your Classic Cherry Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to three months.
Can I add nuts to the cherry bread?
Yes! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the flavor and texture of your Classic Cherry Bread. Just fold in about half a cup of chopped nuts along with the cherries for a delightful crunch.
What can I serve with cherry bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a pat of butter for an extra treat. It’s versatile enough for breakfast, snacks, or dessert!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! To make a vegan version of this Classic Cherry Bread Recipe, replace the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and butter. It will still be delicious and moist!
Final Thoughts
Baking this Classic Cherry Bread Recipe is more than just a culinary task; it’s a joyful experience that fills your home with warmth and delightful aromas. Each slice is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, whether enjoyed with family at breakfast or shared with friends over coffee. The sweet cherries and fluffy texture create a comforting treat that brings smiles all around. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your baking repertoire, just as it has in mine. So, roll up your sleeves and let the magic of baking unfold in your kitchen!
Print
Classic Cherry Bread Recipe: Unleash Your Baking Skills!
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and moist cherry bread that combines the sweetness of cherries with a soft, fluffy texture, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the cherries gently to avoid breaking them.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg