Indulge in the vibrant, sweet delight of our Maraschino Cherry Bread – a truly exceptional recipe perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast treat, a delightful dessert, or a charming gift for friends, this sweet bread delivers. Its bright flavors and beautiful color make it an ideal choice for celebrations, especially as a Valentine’s Day sweet bread or a festive cupcake treat.
Who can truly resist the irresistible allure of those bright red maraschino cherries? Their cheerful color and distinct sweetness aren’t just for garnishing ice cream sundaes anymore. If you’ve never ventured into baking with them, prepare for a delightful culinary adventure. This recipe transforms these iconic jarred cherries into a moist, flavorful loaf that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. (This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.)
This cherished cherry bread recipe first came to life in my kitchen nearly two decades ago. Back then, blogging wasn’t part of my world, so this delicious creation remained a private joy. Recently, a friend inquired about how I made it all those years ago, which sparked a wonderful memory and the perfect motivation to finally share these instructions with you!
Rediscovering this recipe was a pleasant surprise; I had forgotten just how much I enjoyed it and instantly regretted not making it sooner to share with my own children. This loaf is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. Planning a brunch gathering? This Maraschino Cherry Bread will be the star of your spread. With an upcoming holiday, it serves as a festive and unique addition to any dessert table. For those who love a chocolatey twist, our equally delightful chocolate cherry bread offers another fantastic option.
For an extra festive touch, especially if you’re aiming for a Valentine’s Day-themed cake, you can easily enhance the bread’s pink hue with a touch of food coloring. While I personally don’t prioritize the color and usually skip this step, it’s a simple customization option for those who do. If you choose to add color, I highly recommend using Wilton’s gel food coloring over liquid varieties for a more concentrated and vibrant result without altering the batter consistency significantly.
Essential Ingredients and Expert Notes for Perfect Cherry Bread
Crafting the perfect Maraschino Cherry Bread begins with understanding the role each ingredient plays. You’ll need almost an entire jar of maraschino cherries, not just for their delightful fruitiness but also for about half a cup of their vibrant cherry juice. This ruby-red juice is a game-changer, infusing the batter with natural color and a deeper cherry flavor, far superior to plain water.
The magic truly happens with the extracts. A combination of almond extract and vanilla extract elevates this bread, creating a sophisticated, almost marzipan-like flavor profile in every tender slice. While cherry extract might seem like the obvious choice, trust me, the almond and vanilla blend offers a more complex and ultimately more satisfying taste that beautifully complements the maraschino cherries.
For the dry ingredients, you’ll need flour and baking powder. Achieving a light and fluffy texture is paramount in baking, and it all starts with proper flour measurement. Avoid simply scooping flour directly from the bag, as this compacts it and results in too much flour, leading to a dense loaf. Instead, lightly spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge. This technique is the key to creating airy, perfectly baked goods.
Sugar, specifically white granulated sugar, provides the essential sweetness. And for that ideal texture—fluffy, rich, and tender—make sure your eggs are at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with other ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter and a more consistent final product.
Oil, typically vegetable oil, adds moisture to the bread. However, don’t feel limited! For those looking for alternatives, pumpkin puree or even Greek yogurt can be used to add moisture and a subtle twist, making the bread incredibly moist. Finally, for the delectable glaze that crowns this bread, you’ll need powdered sugar and heavy whipping cream.
Preparation involves using an 8×4 or 9×5 inch loaf pan, lightly coated with non-stick spray for easy release. The classic two-bowl method is essential for success: first, combine all your dry ingredients in one bowl. In another, whisk together the wet ingredients and room temperature eggs. Then, gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet, mixing until just combined to prevent overworking the batter. The final touch is to gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed without being crushed.
Exciting Variations to Elevate Your Cherry Bread
While our Maraschino Cherry Bread is magnificent on its own, it also serves as a fantastic canvas for creative additions. Personalize your loaf with these delicious variations:
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Introduce a delightful contrast by folding in about 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips. White chocolate chips would also be a fantastic complement to the cherry flavor, adding a creamy sweetness.
- Chopped Nuts: For a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts. Walnuts or pecans in small pieces are excellent choices that pair wonderfully with cherries. You could also sprinkle some thinly sliced almonds on top of your glaze for an elegant finish and an extra layer of texture.
- Citrus Zest: A tablespoon of fresh lemon or orange zest can brighten the flavor profile, adding a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the cherries and glaze.
- Coconut Flakes: For a tropical twist, mix in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of shredded coconut flakes. The subtle chewiness and flavor of coconut enhance the bread beautifully.
Expert Baking Tips for the Perfect Loaf
Achieving a perfectly moist and flavorful Maraschino Cherry Bread is simple with these helpful tips:
- Prepare Your Pan Properly: Before pouring in the batter, always use a bit of non-stick cooking spray inside your loaf pan. For an extra layer of insurance and easier removal, you can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the loaf out easily after baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking is the arch-nemesis of moist quick breads. Begin checking for doneness around the minimum bake time. As soon as a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, it’s ready! Remove it from the oven promptly. The internal temperature will continue to rise slightly as it cools (carryover cooking).
- Cooling is Key: Resist the urge to flip the loaf over and remove it from the pan immediately. Allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes on a wire rack. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from crumbling when you transfer it. Once slightly cooled, carefully remove it from the pan and place it directly on a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing too early can result in a mushy texture and uneven slices.
- The Glaze: While the homemade icing adds a delightful sweetness and finish, it’s entirely optional. If you prefer a simpler, less sweet bread, you can certainly leave it off. For best results, ensure the bread is completely cool before drizzling the glaze to prevent it from melting and running off.
- Pan Size Matters: I regularly use an 8×4 inch loaf pan for this recipe, and it works wonderfully, just like with our beloved pumpkin apple bread. If you use a larger pan (e.g., 9×5 inch), adjust baking time accordingly, as it might bake slightly faster due to a shallower batter depth.
Can You Use Frozen Cherries in Cherry Bread?
While maraschino cherries are specifically recommended for their unique sweetness, texture, and vibrant color, you certainly can use frozen or fresh cherries as an alternative. However, be aware that the final taste and appearance will differ slightly.
- Maraschino Cherries: These are preferred because they are exceptionally sweet and retain their bright red color, which they also impart to the bread batter, enhancing its visual appeal. Their syrupy juice is also crucial for flavor and moisture.
- Fresh Cherries: If opting for fresh cherries, you’ll need to pit them and then dice them into smaller pieces. You might also want to add a tablespoon or two of extra sugar to the batter to compensate for the reduced sweetness compared to maraschino cherries.
- Frozen Cherries: To use frozen cherries, it’s best to defrost them first. Once defrosted, gently pat them dry to remove excess moisture, as too much water can make your bread dense. Then, chop them into suitable pieces. Fold the chopped, defrosted cherries into your batter at the very end to prevent them from breaking apart too much during mixing. Keep in mind that frozen cherries, even after defrosting, might release a bit more liquid during baking and may not color the batter as intensely as maraschino cherry juice.
Regardless of the cherry type you choose, ensure they are well-drained and chopped to an appropriate size to ensure even distribution and avoid dense spots in your loaf.
Can You Bake This Into Muffins?
Absolutely! This versatile Maraschino Cherry Bread recipe can be easily adapted to make delicious muffins, much like how we transformed our cherry brownies. Baking this batter as muffins offers a convenient, portion-controlled option that’s perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or quick dessert treats.
To convert this recipe into muffins:
- Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter. Avoid overfilling to prevent overflow.
- Bake in a preheated oven (the same temperature as the loaf recipe, 325 degrees F) for approximately 18-22 minutes. Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the size of your muffin cups, so keep a close eye on them.
- Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin. It should come out mostly clean, with perhaps a few moist crumbs attached, indicating a perfectly baked, tender muffin.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Muffins bake faster than a loaf, so regular checks are essential to prevent overbaking and ensure a moist, fluffy texture.
Overall Rating: 5 from 6 votes
Maraschino Cherry Bread Recipe
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Equipment
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1 8×4.5 inch loaf pan
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2 bowls
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, divided
- 10 oz maraschino cherries, + 1/2 c. juice from this jar will be used as well
- 2 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
Glaze
- 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 5 tbsp heavy whipping cream
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (160 degrees C).
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Lightly spray an 8×4 inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix together the sugar and vegetable oil. Add the eggs, almond extract, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of the maraschino cherry juice. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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In a separate mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder, mixing them well. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet mixture, stirring slowly until smooth and just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Finely chop the maraschino cherries and gently fold them into your batter until evenly distributed.
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Spread the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. It is crucial not to overbake, as you want the bread to remain wonderfully moist.
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Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before carefully sliding it out onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
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While the bread cools, prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, and the remaining 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Once the loaf is completely cooled, generously pour or drizzle the prepared glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for an appealing finish.
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
How Do You Keep Leftovers Moist?
Proper storage is essential to maintain the delicious moisture and freshness of your Maraschino Cherry Bread. Here’s how to keep your leftovers at their best:
- Room Temperature Storage (Short Term): For up to two days, wrap your cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This barrier helps to seal in moisture and protect it from drying out. Store it on your countertop in a cool, dry place.
- Refrigeration (Medium Term): If you don’t anticipate finishing the bread within two days, or if your kitchen is particularly warm, consider refrigerating it. Wrap the loaf securely in plastic wrap, then place it inside an airtight container or a large zip-top bag. It will stay fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.
- Freezing (Long Term): For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Once the bread is completely cool, wrap it tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. For extra protection against freezer burn, place the foil-wrapped loaf inside a gallon-sized freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen cherry bread can last for up to 2-3 months.
- Thawing Frozen Bread: To thaw, simply remove the bread from the freezer and leave it wrapped on the countertop at room temperature for several hours or overnight. This slow thawing process helps to maintain its original moisture and texture. Avoid using a microwave or oven to thaw, as this can dry out the bread.
Following these steps will ensure every slice of your Maraschino Cherry Bread remains as delightful as the first!
Can I Use Maraschino Cherries for Baking?
Absolutely! Maraschino cherries are not only suitable but highly recommended for baking, especially in recipes where you want a distinct, sweet cherry flavor and a beautiful color. These jarred delights, typically made from Royal Ann cherries, undergo a brining and sweetening process that gives them their iconic taste and appearance.
Their unique characteristics make them fantastic in various baked goods:
- Intense Sweetness: Maraschino cherries are notoriously sweet, which means they can contribute a significant flavor punch without needing excessive added sugar in your recipe.
- Vibrant Color: Their bright red hue naturally colors batters and doughs, creating visually appealing treats. This is particularly evident in our Cherry Bread, where the cherry juice adds a lovely pink tint.
- Moisture Contribution: The syrup they’re packed in is a valuable ingredient! As demonstrated in this recipe, using a portion of the cherry juice adds moisture and depth of flavor to the batter.
- Versatility: Beyond this bread, maraschino cherries can be used in numerous ways. We’ve incorporated them into a delightful cherry crisp, and they’re wonderful in muffins, cookies, and even savory dishes where a touch of sweet fruit is desired.
While this Cherry Bread recipe focuses on a quick bread, their flavor profile is distinct from the tartness of fresh cherries or pie filling, making them perfect for sweet applications. For instance, our cherry coffee cake uses a cake mix and pie filling, offering a different texture and flavor profile. If you’re looking to add a sweet, colorful touch to glazes, consider blending some finely minced maraschino cherries or a dash of their juice into the frosting for this bread, or even for something simple like our 4-ingredient banana bread.
What Can I Use Leftover Cherry Juice For?
Don’t let that leftover maraschino cherry juice go to waste! It’s a fantastic ingredient that can add a pop of color and sweetness to a variety of dishes and drinks. Here are some creative ideas:
- Beverages: Beyond the classic Shirley Temple (a favorite with my girls!), use it to sweeten and color other drinks. Add a touch to lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water for a fun twist. It also works wonders in cocktails; I often add a dash to my favorite Pineapple Rum Cocktail for extra depth and a beautiful hue.
- Dessert Sauces & Syrups: Simmer the juice down slightly to create a simple syrup that can be drizzled over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or even other quick breads. You can also incorporate it into a fruit compote or a glaze for cakes and pastries.
- Baking Enhancements: Use it as a substitute for a portion of the liquid in other quick bread recipes, muffins, or cupcakes to impart a subtle cherry flavor and pink tint. Imagine it in a vanilla cake or even a batch of sugar cookies.
- Marinades: For a surprisingly delicious savory application, incorporate a small amount into marinades for pork or chicken. Its sweetness balances salty and savory notes beautifully.
The versatility of maraschino cherry juice is truly remarkable for sweetening up just about any recipe. If you’re looking for more quick bread recipes to utilize your baking skills or leftover ingredients, explore our collection of easy and delicious options!