Cherry Bread Recipe

Flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the cherries.

Cherries: Fresh, pitted, and chopped cherries add bursts of flavor and moisture.

Milk: Contributes to the bread's moistness and helps bind the ingredients together.

Vegetable oil: Adds richness and keeps the bread tender.

Eggs: Provide structure and stability to the bread.

Baking powder: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of sweetness.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.

When folding in the chopped cherries, be gentle to avoid breaking them apart too much. This helps maintain their texture and ensures that you get delightful bursts of cherry flavor throughout the bread. Additionally, make sure the cherries are well-drained if using canned or jarred varieties to prevent excess moisture from affecting the batter.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making the bread healthier.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides natural sweetness and moisture, though you may need to reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly.

• cherries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries offer a similar tartness and chewy texture, though they are less juicy.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking, adding a subtle nutty flavor.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can reduce the fat content and add natural sweetness and moisture to the bread.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs are a vegan alternative made by mixing ground flaxseed with water, providing similar binding properties.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Mixing baking soda with cream of tartar creates a similar leavening effect.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile that pairs well with cherries.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can enhance the flavor with a slightly different mineral content.

• Allow the cherry bread to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the bread soggy.

• Wrap the cherry bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to keep the bread moist and prevents it from drying out.

• Place the wrapped cherry bread in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This provides an extra layer of protection against air and moisture.

• Store the cherry bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider refrigerating or freezing it.

• For refrigeration, place the wrapped cherry bread in the fridge. It can last up to a week this way. Make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

• To freeze, wrap the cherry bread in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double-wrapping helps to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the wrapped cherry bread with the date before placing it in the freezer. This helps you keep track of how long it has been stored.

• Freeze the cherry bread for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

• For quicker thawing, you can slice the cherry bread before freezing. Place parchment paper between slices to prevent them from sticking together. This way, you can easily grab a slice or two without defrosting the entire loaf.

• Reheat individual slices of cherry bread in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through. This brings back the fresh-baked taste and texture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cherry bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the bread's moisture and texture.

• Microwave Method: Place a slice of cherry bread on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Check if it's warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals. Be cautious not to overheat, as it can become rubbery.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cherry bread on a piece of aluminum foil or directly on the rack. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method gives a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft.

• Steaming Method: If you have a steamer, place the cherry bread in a heatproof dish and steam for about 5 minutes. This method is excellent for retaining moisture and giving the bread a fresh, soft texture.

• Stovetop Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place a slice of cherry bread in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method can give a slightly toasted exterior while keeping the inside warm and soft.

• Oven: Used to bake the cherry bread at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Loaf pan: The container in which the bread batter is poured and baked.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the dry ingredients together.

• Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the wet ingredients.

• Whisk: Used to mix the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

• Spatula: Used to fold in the chopped cherries into the batter.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the flour, sugar, milk, and vegetable oil accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the bread is fully baked by inserting it into the center of the loaf.

• Wire rack: Used to cool the bread completely after it has been removed from the loaf pan.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the baking process and prevent any last-minute searches.

Use a stand mixer: If you have a stand mixer, use it to combine the wet and dry ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Line the loaf pan: Instead of greasing the loaf pan, use parchment paper. This saves time on cleanup and ensures easy removal of the bread.

Quick cherry prep: Use frozen, pre-pitted cherries to save time on pitting and chopping.

Batch baking: Double the recipe and freeze one loaf for later. This way, you only have to bake once but enjoy cherry bread twice.