Moist Cherry Almond Loaf

A moist, festive quick bread studded with juicy cherries and fragrant almonds — perfect for the holidays or any time you crave a simple, elegant treat.

This loaf cake quickly became a holiday favorite in my family, reminding me of cozy winter afternoons.

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp salt
• Wet Ingredients: ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp almond extract
• Add-ins: 1 cup (150 g) fresh or thawed frozen cherries pitted and halved (or use well-drained maraschino cherries), ½ cup (60 g) sliced almonds plus more for topping
• Optional Topping: 2 tbsp sliced almonds, 2 tbsp coarse sugar

Instructions

Prep ingredients easily by chopping vegetables, slicing meats, and serving dishes neatly during everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

Step 1:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3:

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 4:

Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.

Step 5:

Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture mix just until combined. Pour in the milk then add the remaining dry ingredients stirring gently until just incorporated.

Step 6:

Fold in cherries and sliced almonds.

Step 7:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle with extra sliced almonds and coarse sugar if desired.

Step 8:

Bake for 50 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9:

Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Save to Pinterest

Sharing this loaf with my family always brings us together around the table for stories and laughter.

Notes

For a glazed finish drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk once cooled. Substitute dried cherries if fresh or frozen are unavailable use ¾ cup and soak in warm water for 10 minutes. Try adding orange zest for a citrus note. Delicious served with tea or coffee.

Required Tools

9x5-inch loaf pan Mixing bowls Electric mixer or whisk Measuring cups and spoons Rubber spatula Parchment paper Wire rack

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (gluten) Eggs Milk (dairy) Tree Nuts (almonds) Butter (dairy) Always double-check ingredient labels especially for processed cherries.

Save to Pinterest

Keeps spoons and utensils off counters while cooking, catching drips and keeping your stovetop clean.

Check price on Amazon

This Cherry Almond Loaf Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion or just a cozy day at home.

Ask About This Recipe

→ Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, substitute ¾ cup dried cherries soaked in warm water for 10 minutes to rehydrate them before folding into the batter.

→ How do I get a crunchy topping?

Sprinkle sliced almonds and coarse sugar atop the batter before baking to create a crunchy, sweet crust.

→ What is the recommended baking time and temperature?

Bake the loaf at 350°F (175°C) for 50–55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

→ Can I add flavor variations?

Yes, try adding orange zest to the batter for a fresh citrus note that complements the cherries and almonds.

→ What tools are needed for preparation?

A 9x5-inch loaf pan, mixing bowls, an electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a rubber spatula, parchment paper, and a wire rack are essential.