There’s something undeniably magical about the smell of fresh-baked bread wafting through your kitchen, don’t you think? Especially when it’s sweet, fruity, and drizzled with a glossy cherry glaze. Cherry Bread is the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day or a sweet surprise to share over coffee with friends. Trust me, this recipe is going to become a go-to in your kitchen it’s that good. Whether you’re a cherry lover or just looking for a fun baking project, this bread will hit all the right notes. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Cherry Bread with Cherry Glaze
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a brunch gathering, a cozy family dessert, or just to treat yourself (because you deserve it!), this cherry bread is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a winner:
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. It’s the kind of bread that feels just as at home on a fancy brunch table as it does wrapped in parchment for a quick grab-and-go treat.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and seasonal or frozen cherries. You don’t have to break the bank to bake something this fabulous.
Easy to Make: These are straightforward steps with no need for special equipment or advanced skills. If you can stir and pour, you can bake this bread!
Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of sweet, tart cherries and a glossy glaze is irresistible to both kids and adults.
Customizable: Add a handful of nuts, a splash of almond extract, or even some chocolate chips to make it your own.
Ingredients in Cherry Bread with Cherry Glaze
Here’s the magic of this bread it’s made with simple ingredients that create a symphony of flavors and textures. Let’s break it down:
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the bread, giving it structure and softness.
Fresh or Frozen Cherries: The juicy bursts of fruitiness in every bite. Go for fresh when they’re in season, but frozen works beautifully too.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread and balances the tartness of the cherries.
Eggs: Helps bind everything together and gives the bread a tender crumb.
Milk: Adds moisture and richness.
Butter: For that buttery flavor and tender texture.
Baking Powder: The leavening agent that gives the bread its lovely rise.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness and brings out the cherry flavor.
Powdered Sugar: The base for the cherry glaze, adding that irresistible sweetness.
Instructions for Cherry Bread with Cherry Glaze
Let’s dive into the steps to create this sweet masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the Cherries: If using fresh cherries, pit and chop them. If using frozen, thaw them and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.
Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Bring It All Together: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Fold in the cherries.
Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Cherry Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and a few teaspoons of cherry juice (from thawed cherries or jarred cherry syrup) until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.
Finish It Off: Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled bread. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Cherry Bread with Cherry Glaze
This bread is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few serving ideas:
Warm with Butter: A classic choice that lets the cherry flavor shine.
With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
As a Dessert: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Packed for a Picnic: Wrap slices in parchment paper for an easy, portable snack.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8-10 slices
Calories per serving: 240
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Additional Tips for Cherry Bread with Cherry Glaze
Prep Ahead: Chop and pit the cherries in advance to save time.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced twist.
Storage Tips: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually.
Double the Recipe: This bread freezes beautifully, so make an extra loaf to keep on hand.
FAQ Section
Can I use canned cherries? Yes, just drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don’t have cherry juice for the glaze? Substitute with milk or water and a drop of red food coloring for the pink hue.
Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
What can I add for extra texture? Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips are great additions.
How do I know when the bread is done? Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Can I make muffins instead? Sure! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Can I use almond extract instead of vanilla? Yes! It pairs beautifully with cherries.
What’s the best way to reheat slices? Pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven.
Can I make this dairy-free? Swap the milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter.
How do I prevent the glaze from soaking in too much? Let the bread cool completely before glazing.
Now it’s your turn to bake this delicious Cherry Bread with Cherry Glaze. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked. Happy baking!
Print
Cherry Bread with Cherry Glaze
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist, tender loaf bursting with cherry flavor and topped with a sweet, pink cherry glaze. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or gifting!
Ingredients
For the Cherry Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (reserve 2 tbsp juice)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cherry Glaze:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2–3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Cherry Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and reserved cherry juice.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
- Fold in the chopped cherries and nuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Cherry Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, maraschino cherry juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more sugar or juice as needed.
- Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle or spread the glaze over the top. Let the glaze set before slicing.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality maraschino cherries.
- Add a pinch of almond extract to the glaze for an extra depth of flavor.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 275 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg