Cherry Bread is a soft, sweet quick bread loaded with juicy maraschino cherries and topped with a creamy almond glaze. It comes together fast and tastes like pure cherry heaven in every bite.
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Why You’ll Love This Bread
You will love this Cherry Bread because it feels bakery special, yet it takes only about 15 minutes to prep. The crumb stays moist and tender, while the chopped cherries add bright pops of sweetness in every slice.
Also, this Cherry Bread uses simple pantry ingredients, so you can bake it anytime without a special trip to the store. The almond extract brings a warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cherries.
Meanwhile, the sweet cherry glaze melts right over the top and sets into a glossy finish. As a result, each slice looks beautiful and tastes even better. Whether you serve it for brunch or dessert, this Cherry Bread always feels like a treat worth sharing.
Ingredients
This Cherry Bread uses everyday ingredients, yet the flavor feels anything but ordinary. First, you will gather the wet and dry basics. Then, you will fold in bright maraschino cherries for that signature color and sweetness.
Because this is a quick bread, you do not need yeast. Instead, baking powder and baking soda help the loaf rise beautifully. Meanwhile, almond extract gives this Cherry Bread its classic flavor.
You will also make a simple glaze. It comes together in minutes and adds extra cherry flavor on top. Be sure to drain the cherries and reserve some juice, since you will need it for the glaze later.
Ingredients for the Bread Batter
For the Cherry Bread batter, you need 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/2 cup canola oil. You can also use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon almond extract for flavor.
Next, measure 2 cups all purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Finally, drain two 10 ounce jars of maraschino cherries and chop them coarsely. Reserve about 1/3 cup of the juice for the glaze.
Ingredients for the Cherry Glaze
For the glaze, you need 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon melted butter, and 2 tablespoons reserved cherry juice. Then, add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract.
Whisk everything until smooth. The glaze should pour easily but still hold on top of the Cherry Bread once cooled.
How to Make Cherry Bread Step by Step
Making this Bread feels simple and relaxing. First, you mix the wet ingredients. Then, you combine the dry ingredients. After that, you gently fold in the cherries and bake. Finally, you glaze and slice.
Because this Cherry Bread uses oil instead of butter, it stays soft for days. Also, the batter comes together quickly, so you do not need a mixer.
Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, grease or spray a 9 by 5 inch loaf pan. Lightly flour the pan if needed, so the Cherry Bread releases easily after baking.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together sugar, milk, oil, egg, and almond extract. Mix until fully combined. The mixture should look smooth and slightly creamy.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined.
Fold in the Chopped Cherries
Next, gently fold the chopped maraschino cherries into the batter. Do not overmix. A few streaks of flour are fine at this stage.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. Check with a toothpick inserted in the center. If it comes out clean, the Cherry Bread is done. The internal temperature should reach about 200°F.
Cool and Prepare the Cherry Glaze
Let the Cherry Bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, whisk the glaze ingredients until smooth.
Glaze and Slice the Bread
Once fully cool, spread the glaze over the top. Let it set slightly, then slice and serve.
Tips for the Best Cherry Bread
A few simple tips will help your Cherry Bread turn out perfect every time. First, mix gently. Next, choose the right cherries. Finally, check for doneness carefully.
Avoid Overmixing the Batter
When you mix the batter, stir only until combined. Overmixing can make Cherry Bread dense instead of tender. Slight lumps are perfectly fine and actually help keep the texture soft.
Use the Right Cherries for Color and Flavor
Maraschino cherries give Cherry Bread its bright pink color and classic sweetness. However, if you use dye free cherries, the loaf will look more golden than pink. You can also add a bit more almond extract for stronger flavor if you skip the glaze.
Check for Doneness Properly
Oven times can vary, so start checking around 50 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the Cherry Bread is ready. You can also check for an internal temperature near 200°F.
Substitutions and Variations
Cherry Bread feels flexible and fun to customize. You can switch cherries, change extracts, or even add mix ins. Because the base recipe stays simple, small changes still taste amazing.
Can You Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Maraschino Cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries in Cherry Bread. However, pit and chop them first. Fresh cherries taste less sweet, so you may want to add an extra tablespoon of sugar. Also, the bread will not turn pink without maraschino juice.
Flavor Variations to Try
You can swap almond extract for vanilla if you prefer a milder flavor. Meanwhile, white chocolate chips add extra sweetness. You could also stir in chopped nuts for crunch.
If you love cherries, try my Soft, Buttery Cherry Cookies with Sweet Cherries or this Cherry Dump Cake – Simple, Gooey Dessert for another easy treat.
How to Store and Freeze
Cherry Bread stores well, which makes it perfect for baking ahead. As long as you wrap it tightly, it stays moist and flavorful.
Storing Cherry Bread at Room Temperature
Place the cooled Cherry Bread in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to three days. Because the glaze sets on top, it will not melt if the bread cools fully before storing.
Freezing Cherry Bread for Later
If you want to freeze Cherry Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to six weeks. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature. You can also freeze individual slices for quick treats.
Serving Ideas for Cherry Bread
Serve Cherry Bread with hot coffee in the morning or tea in the afternoon. Meanwhile, you can add a dollop of whipped cream for dessert. It also pairs beautifully with fresh fruit for brunch.
If you enjoy fruity flavors, you might also like this refreshing Watermelon Cherry Berry Beet Juice for a Vibrant Boost or even a savory twist like Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Pasta Recipe You Will Love.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Cherry Snowball Cookies – Sweet, Buttery Holiday Treats
- Watermelon Cherry Berry Beet Juice (healthy drink)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cherry bread?
Cherry Bread is a sweet quick bread made with chopped cherries mixed into a soft batter. It bakes in a loaf pan and often includes a cherry flavored glaze on top.
Does cherry need to be refrigerated?
Fresh cherries should stay refrigerated. However, this Cherry Bread can sit at room temperature in an airtight container for a few days.
What is the best cherry to bake with?
Maraschino cherries work best for classic Cherry Bread because they add sweetness and bright color. Fresh cherries also work if you pit and chop them first.
Can you put cherries in bread pudding?
Yes, you can add cherries to bread pudding. In fact, chopped cherries add moisture and a sweet burst of flavor to the dish.
Final Thoughts
Cherry Bread brings comfort and joy in every slice. It feels simple, yet it tastes special enough for holidays or family gatherings. Because it comes together quickly, you can bake it anytime a sweet craving hits. Once you try this Cherry Bread, you will want to make it again and again.
Before you go, you can find more cozy baking ideas and save recipes on my Pinterest page at pinterest.
Cherry Bread
Equipment
- 9×5 inch loaf pan For baking the cherry bread evenly
- Mixing bowls One for wet ingredients and one for dry ingredients
- Whisk For mixing batter and glaze
- Wire rack For cooling the bread completely before glazing
Ingredients
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup canola oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 10 oz jars maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 tablespoons reserved maraschino cherry juice
- ½ teaspoon almond extract for glaze
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray a 9×5 inch loaf pan and lightly flour if needed.
- In a large bowl, mix sugar, milk, oil, egg, and almond extract until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until the batter comes together.
- Drain maraschino cherries, reserving some juice for the glaze. Chop cherries coarsely and gently fold them into the batter.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the internal temperature reaches about 200°F.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Whisk powdered sugar, melted butter, cherry juice, and almond extract until smooth. Spread the glaze over the fully cooled bread before slicing and serving.
