When it comes to baked goodies that perfectly balance sweetness and tanginess, Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting stands out as a favorite. This charming bread not only tantalizes your taste buds but brings a bright pop of color to any occasion. Imagine slicing into a loaf that exudes the unmistakable fragrance of cherries, offering a moist and fluffy texture, beautifully topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether served at a family gathering, breakfast, or as an afternoon snack, this cherry bread will quickly become a recipe you cherish.
Why We Love This Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting. For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious loaf that will impress everyone who tastes it. The sweet, cherry-infused bread pairs perfectly with the creamy, velvety frosting, making it an irresistible combination.
Moreover, this recipe is adaptable to various occasions. Whether you’re making it for a cozy brunch, a snack at work, or a festive gathering, it fits right in. The vibrant colors of maraschino cherries and the playful sprinkles on top bring joy and celebration to your table, making it not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes.
And let’s talk about leftovers! If you’re fortunate enough to have any, this bread stays fresh for days, making it a delightful indulgence for breakfast or dessert. You can enjoy it toasted with a smear of butter or as it is—fluffy and decadent. Overall, this Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delicious recipe you’ll want to keep in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients about Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
To make this delicious Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup real butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cherry juice, from maraschino cherry jar
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries, chopped
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- A pinch of salt
- Colorful sprinkles for decoration
How to Make Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Directions
Making Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a straightforward process that can be enjoyed by bakers of any skill level. Start by prepping your workspace to ensure everything flows smoothly. Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×5 loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray. This step keeps your bread from sticking, ensuring the perfect loaf later on.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This mix creates a fluffy base for your cherry bread. Next, you’ll need to cut the softened butter into the dry mixture. You can use a fork or your fingers for this step; the goal is to achieve a crumbly texture. This method helps to incorporate the butter evenly, resulting in a rich and moist loaf.
Once you achieve that crumbly consistency, it’s time to add the wet ingredients. Crack in the two large eggs, pour in the vanilla extract, and add the cherry juice from the maraschino cherry jar. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser bread.
Now comes the fun part! Fold in your chopped maraschino cherries gently to distribute them throughout the batter. The cherries add bursts of flavor and sweetness, making each slice delightful.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven, and bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon fill with the inviting aroma of baking cherry bread.
After the baking time is up, let the loaf cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial, as it prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
While your bread is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing to combine with each addition. This process incorporates air, creating a whipped texture that melts in your mouth.
Next, add a tablespoon of milk to achieve your desired frosting consistency. Mix for another couple of minutes until the frosting is airy and creamy. Lastly, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the frosting.
Once the cherry bread is completely cooled, it’s time for the final touch. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top, allowing it to drape down the sides slightly if desired. Finish off by sprinkling a handful of colorful sprinkles on top, adding a festive flair to your delightful creation.
How to Serve Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting can be done in various delightful ways, enhancing your enjoyment of this treat. A simple approach is to slice the bread into even pieces and arrange them on a beautiful platter. This presentation makes it ideal for gatherings or brunches, inviting your guests to dig in.
If you want to elevate the experience, toast each slice lightly before serving. This simple step brings out the flavors of the cherries and adds a warm, comforting touch that pairs wonderfully with the cool cream cheese frosting. Your guests will appreciate this extra level of care in preparation.
For added indulgence, serve the bread with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or slices of orange. The freshness will contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cherry bread, creating a balanced plate. You might also want to offer a cup of coffee or tea alongside for a delightful afternoon break.
Don’t hesitate to enjoy this bread as a special breakfast option. Serving it with a dollop of yogurt can create a satisfying start to your day. Your Sweet Cherry Bread will shine in any setting, making it a versatile and loved treat.
Expert Tips: Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips. First, be sure to accurately measure your ingredients. Baking is a science, and even slight discrepancies in measurements can impact the final product.
When mixing your ingredients, remember not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a denser bread rather than the light and fluffy loaf you aim for. Just mix until the ingredients are combined, and avoid unnecessary stirring once you add the cherries.
Be mindful of your baking time. Every oven is different, so check your bread a few minutes before the recommended time. If you find the top is browning too quickly, lightly cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning and allow the bread to continue baking through the center.
Finally, don’t skip allowing the bread to cool completely before frosting. This step is essential as frosting a warm loaf can lead to a melted mess instead of the beautiful and fluffy topping you desire.
How to Store Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
If you find yourself with leftover Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting (which is quite likely, given its deliciousness!), you’ll want to know how to store it properly. Begin by allowing the bread to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can slice it or leave it whole, depending on your preference.
To store the bread, place it in an airtight container. If you have leftover frosting, store it separately in a smaller container to keep it fresh. This separation prevents moisture from affecting the frosting’s texture.
You can keep the bread at room temperature for up to two days, but for longer storage, consider refrigerating it. The bread will remain good in the fridge for about a week, though it’s unlikely to last that long!
If you want to keep this bread for an extended period, freezing is an effective option. Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and add fresh frosting if desired.
Variation of Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
While the original Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful choice, you can explore variations to suit different tastes and occasions. For example, if you enjoy nuts, consider folding in chopped walnuts or pecans along with the cherries. The crunch adds a lovely texture and complements the soft bread beautifully.
Another variation is to switch up the cherry flavor. Try using fresh or frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries for a more natural taste. Adjust the sugar level if needed, as fresh cherries can be less sweet than their jarred counterparts.
Additionally, you could experiment with different types of frostings or toppings. A chocolate ganache, for instance, could create a decadent treat, while a light lemon icing could brighten the flavors even more. Feel free to play with the edible decorations as well, using seasonal sprinkles or nuts to personalize your Sweet Cherry Bread further.
Finally, consider serving the bread as a base for a delicious dessert. Place a slice of cherry bread on a plate, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, and drizzle with chocolate sauce. This lovely twist transforms this already fantastic bread into an extravagant dessert.
FAQ
What is Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delicious baked loaf made with flour, sugar, cherry juice, and chopped maraschino cherries, topped with a creamy frosting made from cream cheese and butter. It’s a sweet treat that’s perfect for various occasions.
How do you make Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?
To make Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, combine dry ingredients, then mix in wet ingredients and cherries. Bake the mixture in a loaf pan, allow it to cool, and top with cream cheese frosting.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries. Adjust the sugar level as needed, since fresh cherries tend to be less sweet.
How should I store Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it and freeze the bread for up to three months.
Can I add nuts to the Sweet Cherry Bread recipe?
Absolutely! Adding nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture and flavor of your Sweet Cherry Bread. Just fold them into the batter along with the cherries.
Sweet Cherry Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- 9×5 Loaf Pan
- Mixing Bowls:
- Electric Mixer
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ cup Real Butter Softened
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- ½ cup Cherry Juice From maraschino cherry jar
- 10 oz Maraschino Cherries Chopped
- 4 oz Cream Cheese Softened
- ¼ cup Unsalted Butter Softened for frosting
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Milk
- A pinch Salt For frosting
- Colorful Sprinkles For decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×5 loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut the softened butter into the dry mixture until crumbly.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and cherry juice. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
- While cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by milk and a pinch of salt.
- Once the bread is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting on top and decorate with sprinkles.
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