Cherry-Blossom Bread
Cherry-Blossom Bread offers a delightful combination of sweet maraschino cherries and crunchy nuts in a tender loaf. Its vibrant flavor and colorful appearance make it perfect for brunch or as a special treat for cherry lovers and those seeking a unique homemade bread experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and chop the maraschino cherries, reserving the juices. Add enough water to the reserved cherry juice to measure 1 cup.
- Combine softened butter, sugar, and slightly beaten egg in a bowl. Beat well.
- Add the dry ingredients (sifted flour, baking powder, salt) alternately with the cherry liquid, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in chopped nuts and cherries.
- Spoon the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F until the loaf tests done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh cherries when in season, though maraschino will work well too. If you're looking to cut down on calories, substitute the butter with unsweetened applesauce or a low-fat spread. Ensure the cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter. Mixing the dry ingredients separately before combining with wet can also ensure even distribution of the baking powder and salt.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry-Blossom Bread is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also enjoy it alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a more balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry-Blossom Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or microwave briefly. This will help refresh its texture and make it delightful to enjoy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry-Blossom Bread contains roughly 365 calories, with 9g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1193mg per serving (52% 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 frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the right texture in your bread. Fresh or frozen cherries will give you a more natural flavor compared to maraschino cherries.
What can I substitute for chopped nuts?
If you're allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free version, consider using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch. You can also omit the nuts entirely or replace them with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. It should also have a golden-brown color on top. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
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).