Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf

Name: Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp almond extract; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first made this Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf, I was immediately captivated by the blend of flavors. The rich chocolate harmonizes beautifully with the tartness of cherries, while the almond adds a delightful crunch. This recipe became a favorite in my household as it brings smiles on everyone’s faces. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a dessert, this loaf is perfect for any time of day. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a go-to for both casual and special occasions.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:25:11.598Z

Creating this Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf was a delightful journey for me. As I combined the ingredients, I was amazed at how the dark chocolate chips melted into the batter, marrying with the vibrant cherries effectively. I decided to add almond extract, which elevated the loaf's flavor profile significantly.

What truly sets this recipe apart is the technique of incorporating the cherries at the very end. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom and ensures an even distribution throughout the loaf. Each slice is a perfect bite of chocolate, cherry, and almond goodness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Nutty notes from the almond extract enhance each bite
Simple to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones

      

Choosing the Right Cherries

When selecting cherries for your Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf, freshness is key. Opt for ripe, sweet cherries to balance the rich chocolate flavors. If fresh cherries aren't available, frozen cherries can be a great alternative. Just be sure to thaw and drain them to remove excess moisture, which can affect the loaf's texture. I personally love using tart cherries for an added zing that cuts through the richness.

Adding cherries contributes moisture to the loaf, which helps create a tender crumb. However, be cautious with how many you fold into the batter; too many cherries can weigh the loaf down, causing it to collapse during baking. A cup of cherries is the sweet spot for achieving the right balance between fruitiness and structure.

Baking Tips for Success

Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing your loaf in. An underheated oven can result in uneven baking or a sunken center. I recommend investing in an oven thermometer to confirm accuracy; this simple tool can help prevent common baking mishaps.

As your loaf bakes, keep an eye on the edges. You'll want them to turn a lovely golden brown while the center remains moist. Check doneness at around 40 minutes with a toothpick. If it comes out with batter, continue baking, checking every 5 minutes until it emerges clean. Letting the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack will also help maintain its structure.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp almond extract
1/2 cup milk
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're just moments away from enjoying a delicious homemade loaf!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf to perfection:

Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then incorporate almond extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until everything is combined without overmixing.

Fold in Chocolate and Cherries

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and cherries to ensure even distribution without breaking the fruit.

Transfer to Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle sliced almonds on top.

Bake

Bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let cool before serving.

Enjoy the delightful aroma of your Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf wafting through the kitchen!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top before serving for an elegant finish.

Storing and Freezing

If you have leftovers, store your Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, ensuring it maintains its delightful texture. If you prefer longer storage, you can freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They can be enjoyed for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature for a few hours or microwave briefly for a quick treat.

When reheating, wrap the loaf in foil to retain moisture and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This brings back the familiar warmth and soft texture that makes this loaf so enjoyable.

Creative Variations

Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste! Swap out dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a sweeter touch. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add a warm undertone to the chocolate flavor. For a more nutty profile, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans along with the sliced almonds on top.

For a caffeine kick, substitute half of the milk with brewed coffee, which complements chocolate beautifully. If you're looking for gluten-free options, almond flour can replace the all-purpose flour, though make sure to adjust the quantity slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries work well, just thaw and drain them before adding.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I substitute the flour?

You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour, but results may vary slightly in texture.

→ Is it possible to add nuts?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would make a great addition to this recipe.