Ingredients Needed

This Christmas Cherry Loaf Cake comes together with just a few everyday ingredients and one key festive addition — glacé cherries. The combination of basic pantry staples and vibrant, sweet cherries creates a moist, soft cake that’s perfect for the holidays.

Dry Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour – The base of the cake, gives it structure and a tender crumb.

• Baking powder – Helps the loaf rise and stay light.

• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

Wet Ingredients:

• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture. Soften it for easier creaming.

• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the loaf and creates a golden crust.

• Eggs – Bind the batter and provide structure.

• Milk or buttermilk – Keeps the cake moist and soft.

• Vanilla or almond extract – Adds a classic flavor note. Almond pairs beautifully with cherries.

Fruit Mix:

• Glacé cherries – These candied cherries are what make the loaf festive. Halve or quarter them for better distribution.

• Optional add-ins – Lemon zest (for brightness), chopped pecans or walnuts, golden raisins.

Topping Ideas (optional):

• Powdered sugar glaze – A quick mix of powdered sugar and milk makes a lovely drizzle.

• Slivered almonds – Toast slightly before sprinkling for a subtle crunch.

• Extra cherries – Decorate the top with halved cherries before baking.

For a deeper look at the type of cherries used, see candied fruit and how they’re commonly used in festive recipes. For inspiration on add-ins or visual presentation, check out Pinterest cherry dessert ideas.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This cake is easy to prepare and doesn’t require special tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer (or whisk if mixing by hand)

• Rubber spatula

• 8×4 or 9×5 inch loaf pan

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Wire cooling rack

• Parchment paper or cooking spray for lining the pan

• Toothpick (for testing doneness)

To make baking more efficient this season, take a look at our guide on essential tools for holiday baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your loaf pan and preheat oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Cream butter and sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream 1/2 cup unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2–3 minutes with a mixer.

Step 3: Add eggs and extract
Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Step 5: Alternate dry ingredients with milk
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, alternating with 1/2 cup milk. Mix until just combined — do not overmix.

Step 6: Prepare cherries
Toss 1 cup chopped glacé cherries in 1 tablespoon flour (this keeps them from sinking). Gently fold them into the batter.

Step 7: Fill the pan and bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and serve
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Glaze or dust with powdered sugar if desired.

For more ideas on decorating, explore Pinterest glazed loaf cake ideas.

Festive Variations to Try

This Christmas Cherry Loaf Cake is easy to customize to suit your tastes or the occasion. Try one of these festive twists:

• Use a mix of red and green cherries for holiday color.

• Add 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.

• Swap out some cherries for golden raisins.

• Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to brighten the flavor.

• Top with a quick lemon glaze or white chocolate drizzle.

• Bake in mini loaf pans for edible gifts — reduce baking time by 10–15 minutes.

Check out more creative options on Pinterest Christmas loaf cakes.

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.

• Toss cherries in flour before adding to batter to prevent sinking.

• Don’t overmix once flour is added — this keeps the texture soft.

• Let it cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.

• Store it properly (see below) for the best flavor and texture.

For classic baking technique tips, see pound cake baking tips.

How to Store and Freeze

Proper storage ensures your loaf stays moist and delicious for days:

• Room temperature: Wrap tightly and store for up to 4 days.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.

• Freezer: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze whole or sliced for up to 2 months.

• To thaw: Let sit at room temp for a few hours or overnight.

For more guidance, read about cake storage methods to preserve texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Per slice (based on 10 servings):

• Calories: ~280

• Fat: ~12g

• Carbohydrates: ~36g

• Sugar: ~24g

• Protein: ~3g

• Fiber: ~1g

Nutrition will vary depending on added toppings and optional mix-ins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use maraschino cherries instead of glacé cherries?
Yes, but drain them well and pat dry first to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

Why did my cherries sink to the bottom?
Make sure you toss them in a tablespoon of flour before folding into the batter.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Bake in two loaf pans or use a bundt pan and adjust baking time accordingly.

Can I make this ahead for the holidays?
Yes, it’s perfect for prepping in advance. Make it up to a week ahead or freeze it for later.

Christmas Cherry Loaf Cake with Almond Glaze

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• Author: Elina

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Description

This Christmas Cherry Loaf Cake is a buttery, moist holiday loaf packed with sweet red cherries and perfect for festive mornings or edible gifts. It’s simple to make, beautiful to serve, and tastes like Christmas in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup chopped red and green candied cherries

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

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

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until combined.

Gently fold in the chopped cherries and nuts if using.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and serve, or wrap tightly for gifting.

Notes

• Always toss cherries in flour to keep them from sinking.

• Almond extract adds a subtle, nutty flavor that pairs well with cherries.

• Use a mix of red and green cherries for extra holiday flair.

• Glaze or frost once cooled, or simply dust with powdered sugar.

• Store tightly wrapped to keep fresh for several days or freeze for later.

• Bake in mini pans for quick and easy gift-giving.