Delicious Cherry Bread Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the world of sweet and savory delights with our Delicious Cherry Bread Recipe! This mouthwatering treat is perfect for any time of the day, whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a delightful dessert. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The combination of fresh cherries, soft bread, and a hint of sweetness will transport your taste buds to a world of pure bliss. So, let’s dive in and explore the magic of this recipe!

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this recipe is simply perfect, with the sweetness of the cherries and the bread complemented by a hint of spice and a touch of freshness from the lemon zest.
• The preparation is a breeze, requiring minimal effort and time, making it an ideal choice for busy days or special occasions.
• The end result is truly impressive, with a beautiful presentation that’s sure to wow your family and friends. The best part? It’s deceptively easy to achieve, requiring no special skills or equipment.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Activate the Yeast – In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Stir to dissolve the yeast, then let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Step 2: Mix the Dough – In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Step 3: Knead the Dough – Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Step 4: Let the Dough Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Step 5: Prepare the Filling – In a small bowl, mix together the cherries, lemon zest, and a tablespoon of granulated sugar.
6. Step 6: Assemble the Bread – Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the cherry filling over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
7. Step 7: Roll and Cut the Bread – Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
8. Step 8: Let the Bread Rise Again – Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let the bread rise for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until it has puffed up slightly.
9. Step 9: Bake the Bread – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 35 to 40 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Step 10: Cool and Serve – Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh cherries and real vanilla extract, to get the best flavor out of your bread.
• If you’re using frozen cherries, thaw them first and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• To ensure that your bread rises properly, keep the yeast and milk at the right temperature, and don’t overmix the dough.

Heat Control

When baking the bread, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature and timing. The ideal temperature for baking bread is between 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C), and the baking time will depend on the size and shape of your loaf. To check for doneness, tap the bottom of the bread – if it sounds hollow, it’s ready. You can also check the internal temperature, which should be around 190°F to 200°F (88°C to 93°C).

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this bread comes from the cherries and the crispy crust. To achieve a crispy crust, make sure to bake the bread at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. You can also try brushing the top of the bread with egg wash or melted butter before baking to give it a golden brown color and a crunchy texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To get a perfect rise, try using a proofing basket or a warm place with a consistent temperature.
• Use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients accurately, especially when it comes to yeast and flour.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to a dense and tough bread. Instead, mix the ingredients just until they come together in a shaggy mass, then let the dough rest and rise.

Storage Tips

• Store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze the bread for up to 2 months, wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placed in a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheat the bread by wrapping it in foil and baking it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This delicious cherry bread is perfect for gifting, especially during the holidays or special occasions. Try wrapping the bread in a decorative towel or a piece of parchment paper, and tie it with a ribbon or a twine. You can also add a personalized note or a gift card to make it an extra-special gift.

Flavor Variations

• Try using different types of cherries, such as sweet cherries or tart cherries, to change up the flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra boost of flavor.
• Use different types of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, to make the bread dairy-free.

Troubleshooting

• If your bread doesn’t rise properly, check the temperature of your ingredients and the yeast, and make sure you’re not overmixing the dough.
• If your bread is too dense or tough, try adding more liquid to the dough or using a higher-protein flour.
• If your bread is too dry or crumbly, try adding more fat to the dough or using a higher-moisture ingredient, such as sour cream or yogurt.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked bread? Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months, then thaw it and bake it as directed.
• Is this bread gluten-free? No, this bread contains gluten due to the presence of wheat flour. However, you can try substituting the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch of bread. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

And that’s it! Our Delicious Cherry Bread Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves sweet and savory treats. With its perfect balance of flavors, easy preparation, and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, give it a try, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor variations and ingredients. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with us!