Cheery Cherry Loaf(My Christmas Bread)
Cheery Cherry Loaf is a delightful Christmas bread featuring bright maraschino cherries, perfect for holiday gatherings and sweet treats with a festive flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the red maraschino cherries, reserving the liquid.
- Add water to the reserved liquid if needed to make 1/3 cup.
- Cut up the cherries and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, and melted margarine.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped green maraschino cherries and the drained red cherries.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before removing from pan and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider sifting the flour before measuring. If red maraschino cherries are unavailable, you can substitute with chopped fresh cherries or cranberries for a tart twist. Additionally, using butter instead of margarine can enhance the flavor. To reduce sugar, you might try a sugar substitute or reduce the amount by a quarter.
Serving Suggestions
This festive loaf is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream cheese for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced tea or coffee. For an elegant touch, consider serving it alongside Louise Rulfo'S Pineapple Icebox Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cheery Cherry Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate, where it will keep for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for about 15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheery Cherry Loaf(My Christmas Bread) contains roughly 443 calories, with 6g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1365mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but they will require pitting and chopping. Fresh cherries will provide a more natural flavor and a bit of tartness compared to the sugary maraschino variety. Keep in mind that the loaf may have a different texture and moisture level.
What can I do if my loaf is too dry?
If your loaf turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking or measuring inaccuracies. To add moisture back, try serving it with a drizzle of cherry syrup or a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Additionally, ensure you’re accurately measuring your flour to prevent this issue in the future.
How can I make this loaf more festive?
To enhance the festive feel, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You could also incorporate chopped nuts or a sprinkle of holiday-themed sprinkles on top after glazing. Serving it on a decorative platter will also elevate its presentation.
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).