Seasonal Cherry Loaf π
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Description:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of the Seasonal Cherry Loaf! Originally known as “Maddie’s Cherry Loaf,” this recipe is a cherished gem found on the internet. Bursting with the juicy sweetness of cherries, this loaf promises a moist, tender crumb that will leave you craving for more. Perfect for the holiday season, it has become a tradition in my kitchen to bake up several loaves to share with loved ones during Christmas. π
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter π§
- 1 cup sugar π§
- 2 eggs π₯
- 1/2 cup milk π₯
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour πΎ
- 2 teaspoons baking powder π₯
- 1 cup cherries, pitted and halved π
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cream butter, then add sugar. | 5 minutes |
| 2 | Add eggs. | 2 minutes |
| 3 | Combine flour and baking powder. | 3 minutes |
| 4 | Use some of your flour to coat cherries. | 5 minutes |
| 5 | Alternate the dry ingredients with the milk into the butter mixture. | 4 minutes |
| 6 | Add the cherries. | 2 minutes |
| 7 | Pour into greased loaf pan. | 3 minutes |
| 8 | Bake at 350Β°F (175Β°C) for 45 minutes to an hour until golden brown on top. | 45-60 minutes |
Instructions:
-
Cream butter, then add sugar. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Gradually add in the sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
-
Add eggs. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
-
Combine flour and baking powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until well combined.
-
Use some of your flour to coat cherries. Take a small portion of the flour mixture and toss the halved cherries in it. This will prevent the cherries from sinking to the bottom of the loaf while baking.
-
Alternate the dry ingredients with the milk into the butter mixture. Gradually add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
-
Add the cherries. Gently fold the flour-coated cherries into the batter until evenly distributed.
-
Pour into greased loaf pan. Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
-
Bake at 350Β°F (175Β°C) for 45 minutes to an hour until golden brown on top. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to an hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is beautifully golden brown.
-
Cool and Serve. Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This loaf is delightful served warm or at room temperature, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
-
Storage. Store any leftover cherry loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave or toaster oven.
This Seasonal Cherry Loaf is a delightful treat that captures the essence of cherry season in every bite. With its moist texture and burst of fruity sweetness, it’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dessert or a festive addition to your holiday table. Enjoy! πβ¨
