Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf

Name: Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup buttermilk; ¾ cup dark chocolate chips; ½ cup chopped dried cherries; ½ cup slivered almonds

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

As I took my first bite of this Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf, I knew I'd discovered something special. The combination of rich chocolate, tart cherries, and fragrant almond creates a delightful harmony that’s simply irresistible. I love how the loaf remains moist and tender, perfect for an afternoon treat or a special breakfast. It’s an indulgence I don't feel guilty about, especially when shared with friends and family who appreciate the little joys of life.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:46:15.999Z

One rainy afternoon, I decided to experiment with flavors that I knew would complement each other perfectly. The pairing of cherries and almonds is classic, but when I added dark chocolate to the mix, I could hardly believe how good it turned out. The sweetness of the cherries balances the rich chocolate, and the almond essence adds a delightful nutty note.

I found that letting the loaf rest for a few minutes before slicing allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This simple tip makes a world of difference in enjoying each bite fully. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on sharing this with your loved ones!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor paired with sweet cherries
Nutty almond aroma that enhances every slice
Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family gathering

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture and flavor. The combination of all-purpose flour provides the structure, while granulated sugar adds sweetness and moisture. Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the loaf its rich chocolate color and flavor, and the leavening agents—baking powder and baking soda—work together to ensure a light, airy texture as it bakes.

Dried cherries offer a zesty burst of flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate, while slivered almonds contribute a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma. The dark chocolate chips melt into gooey pockets of decadence, enhancing every bite. If you're looking to experiment, you could substitute the dried cherries with another dried fruit like cranberries or raisins, which will alter the flavor while maintaining that sweet-tart contrast.

Perfecting Your Technique

When combining the wet and dry ingredients, it's important to gently fold the mixture rather than vigorously stirring. This helps to maintain the loaf's tenderness by preventing overdevelopment of the gluten in the flour. Stop mixing once you see no visible dry flour; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will bake out during the cooking process, resulting in a soft, moist texture.

Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary. Start checking your loaf at the 45-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with wet batter, give it another five minutes. Proper cooling is essential too; letting the loaf sit in the pan for too long can lead to a soggy bottom. Allow it to cool well on a wire rack to achieve that perfect slice!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious loaf:

Dry Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk
¾ cup dark chocolate chips
½ cup chopped dried cherries
½ cup slivered almonds

Ensure you have all ingredients measured and prepared before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Chocolate and Fruits

Fold in the chocolate chips, dried cherries, and slivered almonds until evenly distributed.

Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of almond extract or using fresh cherries when in season.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy days. After it cools completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the loaf, place the slices between layers of parchment paper, and then freeze in a resealable bag for up to three months.

To revive the loaf after freezing, simply thaw it at room temperature. You can also pop individual slices in the microwave for around 15-20 seconds, which will make them warm and inviting. For added indulgence, consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, making it a delightful dessert!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This loaf is incredibly versatile! Serve it plainly for a cozy breakfast with coffee or pair it with cheese and nuts for an afternoon snack. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top or drizzling a simple chocolate glaze can elevate its presentation for special occasions. You can also serve it warm, with a spread of almond butter or cream cheese, which pairs beautifully with the chocolate and cherry flavors.

For a fun twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter to introduce a warm complexity. You can also incorporate fresh cherries during the summer months when they’re in season, just remember to decrease the baking time slightly, as the moisture from the fresh fruit can affect the bread's texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Yes, but be sure to pit and chop them, and you may need to reduce the amount of buttermilk slightly to maintain the loaf's consistency.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to 1 week.

→ Can I freeze the loaf?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this loaf?

This loaf pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.