Bran Cherry Loaf
A delicious cherry and walnut loaf with crunchy cereal topping, perfect for breakfast or teatime, offering a sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of spice and tart cherries.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cereal and milk. Let stand until soft.
- Stir together flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
- Add egg and oil to cereal mixture; beat well.
- Add flour mixture and stir well.
- Fold in chopped cherries (reserving 2 tablespoons for topping) and chopped walnuts.
- Pour into greased loaf pan and bake until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Bran Cherry Loaf, consider using a mix of fresh and maraschino cherries for a deeper taste. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or almonds can be good substitutes. For a healthier option, you can replace half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. Be sure to let the cereal soak long enough to soften, which will ensure a moist loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This Bran Cherry Loaf is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack. For a more substantial breakfast, serve it alongside Mainstay French Toast or yogurt and fruit for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Bran Cherry Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and briefly warm in the microwave, or toast lightly in a toaster oven for a crispy edge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bran Cherry Loaf contains roughly 30 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the loaf's texture.
Is this loaf suitable for a diabetic diet?
While this recipe contains sugar, you can modify it to suit a diabetic diet by substituting with a sugar alternative. Additionally, using whole grain flour instead of all-purpose flour can improve its nutritional profile. Always consult with a healthcare provider for specific dietary needs.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free Bran Cherry Loaf, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the cereal used is also gluten-free. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).