The aroma of freshly baked bread wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet scent of cherries and the rich allure of chocolate. That’s right; we’re diving into the delightful world of Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread, a dish that turns any mundane day into a celebration.
Remember those cozy winter evenings when you’d huddle under a blanket, the world outside frosty and unforgiving? Now imagine slicing into a warm loaf of this cherry chocolate goodness—each bite bursting with flavor and nostalgia. This bread is not just food; it’s comfort on a plate, perfect for holiday gatherings or a casual morning treat.
Why You'll Love This Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread
- This incredible Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
One holiday season, I decided to surprise my family with this delicious bread. The moment they took their first bite, their eyes lit up like Christmas lights—I’ll never forget the chorus of “Mmm” and “Wow” that filled my kitchen!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Choose unbleached flour for a more natural flavor and texture in your bread.
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Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness; adjust based on your preference for tartness from cherries.
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Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh to help your bread rise beautifully.
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Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors while balancing sweetness.
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Eggs: Use large eggs for the best binding and moisture in your batter.
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Milk: Whole milk offers richness; however, any milk will do if you’re in a pinch!
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Fresh Cherries: Pitted and chopped; they provide juicy bursts of flavor throughout the bread.
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Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work great for an indulgent touch.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash adds warmth and depth to your flavor profile.
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Cinnamon (optional): A dash can elevate the taste into holiday magic territory!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan lightly with nonstick spray or butter—trust me; you don’t want sticky situations here.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and optional cinnamon. Whisk until well blended—this ensures no clumps ruin our festive spirit.
Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until fluffy. Pour it over the dry mixture. It may seem messy at first—embrace it!
Fold in Cherries and Chocolate: Gently fold in chopped cherries and chocolate chips using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; we want pockets of gooey goodness throughout!
Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer your luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula so it bakes evenly—a little TLC goes a long way!
Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown. When you can smell it all over your house? That’s when you know it’s close!
Enjoying this Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread will create memories that last far longer than any loaf can hold!
You Must Know About Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread
- This showstopping Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your dry ingredients in one bowl while creaming butter and sugar in another. Then, incorporate wet ingredients like eggs and vanilla before gently folding in the cherries and chocolate chips. This sequence ensures even distribution of flavors and prevents overmixing, giving your bread a delightful texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherries for dried cranberries or blueberries for a fruity twist. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate chips, to create unique flavor profiles. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the festive vibe too.
Storing & Reheating
To maintain freshness, store your Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread
- This professional-quality Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my aunt’s holiday gatherings where her cherry chocolate chip bread was always the star attraction; everyone clamored for seconds while I secretly plotted how to snag the last slice.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried ones?
Absolutely! Using fresh cherries adds a wonderful burst of juiciness to your Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread. Just make sure to pit them first and chop them into smaller pieces to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the batter.
How can I make this bread gluten-free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a 1: 1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your chocolate chips are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of your delicious treat!
What should I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter seems unusually thick, don’t panic! Add a splash of milk or water gradually until you reach a smoother consistency that’s easy to pour but still holds its shape when baked.
Can I add nuts to my Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a delightful addition that adds crunch and enhances flavor complexity within your bread. Just remember not to overload it; balance is key!
Conclusion for Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread
In summary, crafting your own Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating joyful moments filled with laughter and delicious smells wafting through the house. Remember to enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, perfecting your cooking process, and storing leftovers wisely (if they last that long). With these tips in hand, you’re set for holiday baking success!
Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Holiday Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread is a festive delight that combines the tangy sweetness of fresh cherries with rich chocolate chips, creating a warm and inviting treat perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms simple ingredients into a bakery-quality loaf that’s sure to impress family and friends. Ideal for holiday gatherings or as a comforting morning snack, this bread will fill your home with a delightful aroma and create lasting memories.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla until fluffy; then combine with the dry mixture.
- Gently fold in cherries and chocolate chips until just combined.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
