Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf

Name: Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped; 1/2 cup slivered almonds

Highlighted under: Pastry Magic

I love making this Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf during the colder months when I crave a warm, cozy dessert. The combination of rich chocolate, tart cherries, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful treat that’s perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. Over the years, I’ve refined this recipe to ensure every bite is full of flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. This loaf is not only delicious but also makes a beautiful centerpiece for gatherings or a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:55:18.463Z

This Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf has quickly become one of my go-to recipes whenever I need a special sweet treat. I enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, and the addition of tart cherries and crunchy almonds adds a surprise element that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. Recently, I decided to toast the almonds before mixing them in, which really enhanced their flavor and brought a lovely depth to the loaf.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Depending on what I have on hand, I can switch up the fruits or nuts, and it still turns out fantastic. I recommend making this ahead of time, as it tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had a chance to meld. A simple dusting of powdered sugar before serving makes it look as scrumptious as it tastes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Crunchy almonds add a delightful texture
Perfectly moist and flavorful loaf for any occasion

      

Mastering the Loaf Texture

The key to achieving a perfectly moist Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf is careful ingredient measurement and mixing technique. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so mix until just combined when adding the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. This ensures that your loaf remains tender. It’s also essential to allow your butter to soften to room temperature before creaming, as this helps introduce air into the batter, contributing to a lighter crumb.

Using room temperature eggs is another crucial tip. Cold eggs can lower the overall temperature of your batter, preventing the butter from fluffing up properly. To quickly bring eggs to room temperature, you can place them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes before using. Following these tips will enhance the rise and texture of your loaf, creating that delightful slice you're aiming for.

About the Ingredients

The combination of cocoa powder and sugar not only lends the loaf a deep chocolatey flavor but also impacts moisture. Unsweetened cocoa provides a bold base, while the sugar contributes to the loaf's structure and sweetness. If you find yourself short on cocoa, Dutch-process cocoa can be a great substitute, giving a slightly different flavor profile that pairs well with cherries.

Cherries are the star of this loaf, providing a sweet-tart contrast to the chocolate. You can use fresh, frozen, or even dried cherries, but if using dried, consider rehydrating them in warm water for about 20 minutes before chopping and incorporating. The slivered almonds not only offer a crunch but also a nutty flavor that blends beautifully with the rich chocolate and cherries, creating a complex taste experience in every bite.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
1/2 cup slivered almonds

Make sure to prepare the loaf pan by greasing it well to ensure easy removal after baking.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a perfect loaf every time.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with butter.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Fold in Cherries and Almonds

Gently fold in the chopped cherries and slivered almonds until evenly distributed.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top before serving or add a dash of almond extract for a stronger almond flavor.

Storage Tips

This Chocolate Cherry Almond Loaf is fantastic for make-ahead enjoyment. Once cooled, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to three days. Alternatively, if you want it to last longer, freeze the loaf. Slice it first, then wrap the individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw slices as needed for a freshly enjoyed treat.

To enhance the flavors, consider enjoying the loaf a day after baking. This resting time allows the flavors of the chocolate and cherries to meld beautifully. When you are ready to serve, a quick 10-second warm-up in the microwave will revitalize the chocolate and create a warm, gooey texture that complements the crunchy almonds.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve the loaf with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache. Pairing it with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level and balances the richness with creaminess. I often like to add a sprinkle of chopped almonds on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.

This loaf also makes for a delightful breakfast option. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea, or serve it at brunch alongside fresh fruit and yogurt. Its rich flavors can easily stand alone or complement other breakfast items, making it versatile enough for various occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cherries work well too! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate it to extend its freshness.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and it should turn out great.

→ What can I serve with this loaf?

This loaf pairs perfectly with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.