Name: Cherry Bread with Maraschino Cherries and Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ Teaspoons baking powder; ½ Teaspoon kosher salt; 1 Cup granulated sugar; 1 ½ Cups powdered sugar (sifted, for glaze); 1 Stick unsalted butter (½ Cup, softened); 2 eggs (large, at room temperature); 2 Teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 Teaspoon almond extract (plus ¼ teaspoon for glaze); ½ Cup whole milk (at room temperature); 3 Tablespoons maraschino cherry juice (for batter); 2 Tablespoons maraschino cherry juice (reserved for glaze); ¼ Cup heavy cream (for glaze); 1 Cup maraschino cherries (chopped, drained and stems removed); Nonstick cooking spray (as needed)

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 2 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful treat that bursts with flavor and nostalgia, look no further than this Cherry Bread with Maraschino Cherries and Glaze Recipe. This charming loaf combines the sweet tang of maraschino cherries with a tender, moist bread that is luxuriously topped with a cherry-infused glaze. Every bite offers a perfect balance of buttery softness and fruity vibrance, making it an ideal snack, dessert, or even breakfast companion. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or to brighten an ordinary day, this cherry bread will quickly earn a special spot in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of baking ingredients on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a white bowl filled with white flour. Surrounding it, clockwise from the top left, are a stick of unsalted butter, a white bowl holding two white eggs, a wooden bowl of salt with a wooden spoon resting inside, a white bowl of milk, a small white bowl with a measuring cup filled with liquid, a white bowl filled with powdered sugar, a small dark bottle with a cork, a white bowl full of bright red cherries, a small white dish of baking powder, and a small bottle of almond extract. The colors are mostly white with bright red and brown accents. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering just the right ingredients is essential to nailing the rich flavor and perfect texture of this cherry bread. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s the softness from the butter, the fruity pop from the maraschino cherries, or the sweet glaze that seals the deal.

2 Cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure and tenderness.
1 ½ Teaspoons baking powder: Helps the loaf rise up light and fluffy.
½ Teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
1 Cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
1 Stick unsalted butter (½ Cup, softened): Gives richness and moist texture to the bread.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind everything together and add richness.
2 Teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings warmth and complements the cherry flavor.
1 Teaspoon almond extract: Enhances the cherry taste with a subtle nutty note.
½ Cup whole milk (room temperature): Adds moisture and a creamy consistency.
3 Tablespoons maraschino cherry juice: Infuses the batter with vibrant cherry flavor and color.
1 Cup maraschino cherries (chopped, drained, stems removed): The star fruit, delivering bursts of sweetness throughout.
Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy removal of your loaf from the pan.
1 ½ Cups powdered sugar (sifted): The key to a smooth, sweet glaze.
¼ Cup heavy cream: Gives the glaze a luscious, creamy texture.
2 Tablespoons maraschino cherry juice (reserved): Adds that unmistakable cherry tang to the glaze.
¼ Teaspoon almond extract: A final touch to echo the cherry flavors in the glaze.

How to Make Cherry Bread with Maraschino Cherries and Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by setting your oven to 350°F. This temperature ensures the bread cooks evenly, developing a golden crust while remaining tender inside. Lightly coat a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper with the ends hanging over the sides. This clever trick will make lifting the loaf out effortless and keeps the pan clean for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a medium bowl until everything is evenly combined. This blends the leavening agents fully and prevents clumps, giving your cherry bread the perfect rise and texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Do this for about 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale. This step incorporates air, critical for a soft crumb in your cherry bread.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Scrape down the sides to ensure an even mixture. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts, which will infuse a warm, nutty aroma throughout the bread that’s truly irresistible.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Lower your mixer speed and add half of the dry flour mixture, stirring just until combined. Slowly pour in the whole milk and 3 tablespoons of cherry juice, mixing to incorporate. Then add the remaining dry ingredients, mixing gently just until the batter becomes smooth and free of flour streaks. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender and light.

Step 6: Fold in Chopped Maraschino Cherries

Using a rubber spatula, fold in the chopped maraschino cherries evenly throughout the thick batter. This ensures every slice of bread bursts with sweet cherry pieces, creating delightful pockets of flavor and vivid color.

Step 7: Transfer Batter and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the surface with your spatula. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to release any large air bubbles. Bake on the center oven rack for 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool the Bread

Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes before lifting it out by the parchment paper. Transfer the loaf directly onto the rack and allow it to cool completely before adding the glaze.

Step 9: Prepare and Add the Glaze

Whisk together sifted powdered sugar, heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of reserved maraschino cherry juice, and almond extract until smooth, glossy, and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more cherry juice to thin it or powdered sugar to thicken if needed. Drizzle or pour the glaze generously over the cooled loaf, letting it cascade down the sides. Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving your Cherry Bread with Maraschino Cherries and Glaze Recipe.

How to Serve Cherry Bread with Maraschino Cherries and Glaze Recipe

A clear glass bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, filled with a thick, creamy pink mixture that has a smooth texture. On top of the pink layer, there is a generous pile of bright red, small, round, sliced cherries, scattered mainly in the center but some extending toward the edges. The contrast between the light pink cream and vivid red cherries is sharp and colorful. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this already stunning cherry bread, sprinkle a few extra chopped maraschino cherries or some slivered almonds on the glaze while it’s still wet. Fresh mint leaves can also add a lovely pop of green and fresh aroma that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.

Side Dishes

This cherry bread shines when served alongside a hot cup of coffee or a soothing chai latte, making it a perfect morning or afternoon treat. For a more decadent touch, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of softened cream cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Cherry Bread with Maraschino Cherries and Glaze Recipe into charming gift loaves by wrapping slices in parchment paper tied with twine. You can also toast slices and top with mascarpone and fresh berries for an elegant breakfast or dessert option that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the bread cools completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored properly at room temperature, your cherry bread will stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This cherry bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. For best quality, enjoy within 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to revive the bread’s softness and bring out the flavors. Avoid overheating, which can dry the bread out.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries?

While fresh cherries can be used, maraschino cherries provide a unique sweetness and vibrant color that really define this recipe’s character. Fresh cherries might add moisture and alter texture, so reduce any extra liquid accordingly.

Is almond extract necessary in this recipe?

Almond extract isn’t required but highly recommended. It complements the maraschino cherries perfectly and adds a nutty warmth that elevates the bread’s flavor to something truly special.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Baking times can vary slightly, so start checking around 55 minutes.

Can I make these into muffins instead of a loaf?

Absolutely! Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and reduce the baking time to about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them and use the toothpick test for doneness. The glaze can be drizzled on top when cool.

How thick should I make the glaze?

The glaze should be thick enough to coat the spoon but still pour easily, allowing it to drizzle down the sides of the bread. If too thick, add a bit more cherry juice; if too thin, add powdered sugar gradually.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Bread with Maraschino Cherries and Glaze Recipe is a delightful way to bring a touch of sweetness and joy to your baking routine. Its vibrant cherry flavor paired with a luscious glaze makes every slice feel like a treat. I can’t wait for you to try it—you might just find yourself baking this beautiful bread again and again!