There’s something undeniably delightful about a freshly baked loaf of Sweet Cherry Bread. The warm, sweet scent wafting through your kitchen can evoke memories of summer picnics or cozy gatherings with family and friends. This delicious bread combines the tartness of cherries with a soft, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, Sweet Cherry Bread will surely become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire.
Why We Love This Sweet Cherry Bread Recipe
Sweet Cherry Bread is beloved for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for novice bakers and skilled chefs alike. The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are simple to follow. You don’t need to be an expert in the kitchen to whip up this delicious loaf.
Moreover, the sweet and fruity flavor profile of the cherries pairs wonderfully with the soft, buttery texture of the bread. You can indulge your sweet tooth without feeling overwhelmed by sugary desserts. This bread makes a versatile option for various occasions—from casual breakfasts to elegant brunches or as a delightful gift for friends.
The use of maraschino cherries adds a punch of sweetness and a vibrant burst of color, making it visually appealing. Additionally, you can customize this recipe based on your preferences, adding nuts or spices to create your own special version. It’s no wonder that Sweet Cherry Bread has become a favorite for many home bakers!
Ingredients about Sweet Cherry Bread
To make your very own Sweet Cherry Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: For the main structure of the bread.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: To add sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the bread rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavors.
- 1/2 cup real butter, softened: For richness and moisture.
- 2 large eggs: These provide binding and structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For an extra touch of flavor.
- 1/2 cup cherry juice: From the maraschino cherry jar, adding moisture and flavor.
- 1 jar maraschino cherries, chopped (10 ounces): For that sweet cherry goodness.
For the frosting:
- 4 oz. cream cheese, softened: To create a creamy topping.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: To enhance the frosting’s texture.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For sweetness and structure in the frosting.
- 1 Tablespoon milk: To adjust the frosting’s consistency.
- Pinch of salt: To balance the sweetness.
- Sprinkles: For a fun, colorful finish.
How to Make Sweet Cherry Bread Directions
Creating your Sweet Cherry Bread is an enjoyable process, and in just a few simple steps, you will have a delicious loaf to share (or keep all to yourself!). Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your bread releases easily once baked.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, take 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until well combined. This dry mixture is the base of your bread.
- Incorporate Butter: Next, take the softened 1/2 cup of real butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly. This step adds richness to the bread and ensures a soft texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In the same bowl, add 2 large eggs, the teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the 1/2 cup of cherry juice from the maraschino cherry jar. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to remain light.
- Fold in Cherries: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries (from your jar) into the batter, which will add bursts of sweet flavor throughout the loaf.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
- Cool: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial for the best texture.
- Prepare the Frosting: While your bread cools, you can make the frosting. In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until they are light and fluffy. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar and mix until combined. Add a tablespoon of milk to achieve a fluffy consistency. If desired, add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.
- Frost and Finish: Once your Sweet Cherry Bread is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides if you like. For that final festive touch, sprinkle colorful sprinkles over your frosting.
How to Serve Sweet Cherry Bread
When it comes to serving Sweet Cherry Bread, there are several delightful options to enhance your experience. This bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Consider slicing it into thick pieces and serving it alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or tea can elevate your morning routine. Alternatively, enjoy it as a sweet treat during dessert after dinner, or pack slices for a tasty snack for school or work.
For gatherings, a platter of Sweet Cherry Bread slices, adorned with colorful sprinkles, makes for an inviting centerpiece. It’s a simple yet elegant addition to brunch tables, potlucks, or picnics that guests will love.
Expert Tips: Sweet Cherry Bread
Baking can be nuanced, and a few expert tips can take your Sweet Cherry Bread to the next level. Here are some handy hints:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend more easily and results in a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light and fluffy texture.
- Chop Cherries Evenly: Make sure to chop your maraschino cherries into similarly sized pieces. This ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout the bread.
- Add Nuts for Extra Crunch: If you enjoy a bit of texture, think about adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a satisfying crunch.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your bread around the one-hour mark. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
How to Store Sweet Cherry Bread
Once you’ve made your Sweet Cherry Bread, you’ll likely want to enjoy it for a few days. To store it properly, follow these simple steps to maintain freshness:
- Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to consume the bread within a few days, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, it will remain soft and delicious.
- Refrigeration for Longevity: If you want to keep it for longer, consider refrigerating it. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This combination will help keep moisture in while preventing it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
- Freezing for Future Treats: Sweet Cherry Bread freezes well! Wrap it securely in multiple layers of plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Variation of Sweet Cherry Bread
If you love to experiment with recipes, Sweet Cherry Bread offers plenty of opportunities for delicious variations. Here are a few ideas:
- Chocolate Cherry Bread: Add in chocolate chips to the batter for a scrumptious chocolate-cherry combo. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the cherries.
- Spiced Bread: For a cozy twist, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture. These warm spices add depth and richness.
- Nutty Cherry Bread: Including chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can introduce a delightful crunch and additional flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions. Ensure that you use a blend that contains xanthan gum for better structure.
- Mini Loaves or Muffins: Instead of one large loaf, pour the batter into a muffin tin or mini-loaf pans for individual servings. Adjust the baking time accordingly, baking for around 20-25 minutes for muffins.
FAQ
What makes Sweet Cherry Bread special?
Sweet Cherry Bread is special because it combines the sweetness of maraschino cherries with a slight buttery richness and soft texture, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.
Can I make Sweet Cherry Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make Sweet Cherry Bread a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and if you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
How long does Sweet Cherry Bread last?
If stored at room temperature, Sweet Cherry Bread can last for about 3-4 days. In the refrigerator, it will remain fresh for about a week, and in the freezer, it can last up to three months.
What can I serve with Sweet Cherry Bread?
You can serve Sweet Cherry Bread on its own, or with whipped cream, ice cream, or a hot beverage like coffee or tea. It also pairs well with fresh fruits or yogurt for a delightful breakfast.
Sweet Cherry Bread
Equipment
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour For the bread
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar For sweetness
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder To help the bread rise
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt To enhance flavor
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Softened
- 2 large Eggs For binding
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract For flavor
- 1/2 cup Cherry Juice From maraschino cherries
- 1 jar Maraschino Cherries Chopped (10 ounces)
- 4 oz Cream Cheese Softened, for frosting
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Softened, for frosting
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar For sweetness in frosting
- 1 tablespoon Milk To adjust frosting consistency
- 1 Pinch of Salt To balance sweetness in frosting
- Sprinkles For decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well combined.
- Cut in softened butter until the mixture is crumbly.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and cherry juice. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until you reach the desired consistency.
- Once the bread is completely cool, frost the top generously with the cream cheese frosting and add sprinkles for decoration.
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