Stepping into my kitchen, I’m greeted by a mouthwatering aroma that brings back memories of blissful Sunday mornings. As I pull out my Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread from the oven, I can’t help but marvel at the perfect golden crust that hints at the scrumptious treat within. This delightful recipe fuses the sweetness of chocolate with the tartness of juicy cherries, making it an absolute joy to bake and enjoy. Whether you’re looking for an easy homemade breakfast or a charming afternoon snack, this Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread Recipe is sure to please. With minimal prep time and an unbeatable taste, it’s the ultimate solution for anyone craving a comforting treat without the fuss. Curious about how such a simple mix of flavors can create such magic? Let’s dive into the details!
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Chocolate Bread
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates an explosion of taste that delights your palate with each bite.
Easy to Make: Even novice bakers will thrive with this straightforward recipe, ensuring you can whip it up without stress.
Warm & Cozy: Imagine the fragrance of this bread baking, wrapping your home in a comforting aroma that beckons everyone to the kitchen.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, this bread fits beautifully into any time of day. You might even serve it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee—perfect pairings for this delightful treat!
Storage-Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy for days! Store it in an airtight container, and savor freshly baked goodness anytime.
Crowd-Pleasing: This loaf is bound to impress guests and family alike, making it as perfect for gatherings as it is for a quiet afternoon. If you love baked goods that are sure to satisfy friends, check out this Moist Banana Bread too!
Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread Recipe Ingredients
Get ready to create something magical with these simple ingredients!
For the Bread
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure; swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness; brown sugar gives a richer flavor.
- Baking powder – The leavening hero that makes your bread rise beautifully.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor, bringing everything together.
- Eggs – Binds the mixture and adds moisture; substitute with flax eggs for vegan-friendly bread.
- Milk – Keeps the bread light and moist; consider almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Vegetable oil – Ensures a soft texture; melted butter or coconut oil also work wonderfully.
For the Fudgy Goodness
- Chocolate chips – Adds indulgent chocolate flavor; choose dark or semi-sweet for your preference.
- Cherries (fresh or frozen) – Delivers tartness and moisture; if using frozen, keep them thaw-free before baking.
Now that you have your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread recipe ingredients ready, let’s dive into the joy of baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin your baking journey by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, grab a standard loaf pan and generously grease it with butter or cooking spray to ensure a smooth release after baking. The Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread will bake beautifully in this setup, so make sure it’s ready for the delicious batter coming together soon.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to blend them thoroughly; you want a well-combined mixture that will serve as the base of your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread. Set this bowl aside so you can focus on the wet ingredients next.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 1/3 cup of vegetable oil until smooth and creamy. This step is key for ensuring your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread is moist and tender. Visualize a beautifully blended mix that will add richness to your batter. Pour this combination into the dry ingredients in the next step.
Step 4: Mix Together
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, using a spatula to fold them together gently. Mix until just combined—it’s important not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough. You should see a lumpy batter that will yield a moist and delightful loaf when baked. Leave those lovely lumps; they’re a part of the charm!
Step 5: Add the Goodies
Now, it’s time to fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of cherries (either fresh or frozen). Gently stir until the fruits and chocolate are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The goal is to integrate them without overworking the dough—keep that soft texture in mind for your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread!
Step 6: Pour and Smooth
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, making sure to spread it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top, creating a nice surface that will rise beautifully as it bakes. The anticipation of warm chocolate and tart cherry flavors filling your kitchen is already building, so you’re almost ready for the oven!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the loaf pan to your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know the Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread is ready when it turns a golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the color; you want to catch it just as it starts to show that lovely crust.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. Your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread will be intoxicatingly fragrant, and the enticing combination of chocolate and cherry will have you eagerly waiting to slice into this delightful treat!
Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread Recipe Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread to suit your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this delicious bread suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
A simple switch makes a world of difference, allowing everyone to savor this delightful treat. -
Brown Sugar: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a rich, caramelized flavor that beautifully enhances the overall taste.
This variation adds a hint of warmth, perfect for cozy mornings! -
Flax Eggs: Replace regular eggs with flax eggs for a vegan-friendly option that still binds the ingredients wonderfully.
Just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes, and you’re ready to go! -
Almond Milk: Swap out dairy milk for almond milk to create a nourishing dairy-free loaf without sacrificing flavor or texture.
The subtle nutty undertones will elevate your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread to new heights! -
Cream Cheese Swirl: Add dollops of cream cheese to the batter before baking for a creamy, cheesecake-like ribbon running through your bread.
The contrast of tangy cream cheese with sweet cherries and chocolate is a heavenly experience! -
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into your batter for a crunchy texture that complements the soft bread perfectly.
This twist adds great depth and lets your taste buds enjoy a bit of extra sophistication. -
Berries Variation: Experiment with other berries, like raspberries or blueberries, to switch things up and infuse your bread with fresh, fruity flavors.
This is a wonderful way to embrace seasonal fruit and surprise your family with a new favorite. -
Spicy Chocolate: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter to create a spicy chocolate experience.
This adventurous variation will intrigue those who love a little heat with their sweet!
No matter how you choose to adapt this Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread Recipe, it’s bound to impress. If you’re looking for more delightful recipes, check out my scrumptious Peppermint Kiss Chocolate cookies or the heavenly Chocolate Pretzel Cupcakes!
What to Serve with Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread
Nothing beats the warmth of freshly baked Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread accompanied by delightful pairings that elevate your meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes creates a comforting side, balancing the sweetness of the bread beautifully.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness, enhancing the tart cherries in the bread while offering a burst of freshness.
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Coffee or Tea: The rich aroma of coffee or a soothing cup of tea perfectly complements the luscious chocolate and cherry flavors, making this a cozy pairing.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered with yogurt and granola, a parfait brings a creamy, crunchy contrast alongside the soft pastry, perfect for breakfast.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate elevates the sweetness and decorates your bread, making it an irresistible treat for guests.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side adds a delightful cold contrast to the warm, soft bread for a tempting dessert.
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Nutty Granola Bar: Crumbling a few granola bars over a slice can enhance texture and flavor, giving it a crunchy twist alongside each moist bite.
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Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream atop your slice for a delightful touch that transforms this bread into a decadently sweet treat!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread
Room Temperature: Store cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its soft texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, you can refrigerate the bread for added freshness; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices of Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months; simply thaw or microwave to enjoy at any time.
Reheating: To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven for a few minutes—perfect for reviving that fresh-baked taste!
Expert Tips for Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread
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Measure Carefully: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accuracy; too much flour can make the bread dense.
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No Overmixing: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture; overmixing can lead to tough bread.
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Chili with Chocolate: For an adventurous twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate chips, enhancing the flavors in your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread.
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Even Fruit Distribution: Toss the cherries and chocolate chips in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter; this helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
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Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing; this helps it set and makes it easier to cut neat slices.
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Customize Your Additions: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or spices, but remember to balance flavors so the cherry and chocolate shine!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread ahead of time makes busy mornings as sweet as the bread itself! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Similarly, whisk together the wet ingredients (eggs, milk, and oil) and refrigerate them overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures along with the chocolate chips and cherries, then bake as directed. This approach saves precious time and ensures your bread remains just as delicious and moist! Enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread—perfect for a hassle-free breakfast or snack!
Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When picking cherries, look for those that are firm and have a deep red hue. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these might indicate they’re overripe. Fresh cherries will give you the best flavor and texture in your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread.
What is the best way to store Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread?
Very! Once your bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This allows you to enjoy them fresh for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread, first let it cool completely, then slice it as desired. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a labeled freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature or microwave it for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
What should I do if my bread comes out dense?
Ah, that can happen! If your Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Always measure flour accurately, and mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. For a fluffier loaf, gently fold in your chocolate chips and cherries, leaving a few lumps in the batter.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy. To make it vegan, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg, let sit for 5 minutes), and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. Always double-check ingredient sources if allergies are a concern!
How can I customize the Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread?
Very! There are so many ways to make this recipe your own. Consider adding nuts for crunch, like walnuts or pecans, or swirls of cream cheese for a decadent twist. You can also experiment with different fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries, to create your own signature bread. Enjoy the creative process!
Cherry Chocolate Delight Bread Recipe for Irresistible Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, folding gently.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and cherries until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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