We’ve always been fans of the irresistible Cherry Chip Loaf, a delightful twist on classic quick breads that combines juicy cherries with melty chocolate chips for a burst of flavor. Originating from simple home baking traditions, it’s become our go-to for cozy gatherings or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
This easy recipe promises moist, tender results that everyone loves, and we’re excited to share our foolproof version with you. Whether you’re a baking novice or pro, it’ll elevate your kitchen adventures in no time.
Ingredients
In our Cherry Chip Loaf recipe, we focus on simple yet high-quality ingredients that blend juicy cherries with chocolate chips for a moist, irresistible quick bread. This selection ensures the loaf captures the essence of home baking traditions while delivering consistent results for bakers of all levels.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure a light texture, as the base for our batter.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Fresh and measured precisely to help the loaf rise evenly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Adds a subtle balance to enhance the sweetness of the cherries and chips.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Used to sweeten the batter, promoting a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: At room temperature for better incorporation and volume.
- ½ cup whole milk: Provides moisture; we recommend full-fat for richer results.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Melted to bind the ingredients smoothly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses aromatic depth; pure extract works best for authentic flavor.
Add-Ins
- 1 cup fresh cherries: Pitted and chopped for even distribution, adding bursts of tartness.
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Folded in last to maintain their shape and provide gooey pockets of chocolate.
Required Equipment
To prepare our Cherry Chip Loaf with precision and ease, we need a few key pieces of baking equipment. These tools help us combine the ingredients from the previous section seamlessly and achieve that moist, tender loaf every time.
- Mixing Bowls: We suggest using two medium-sized stainless steel or glass bowls—one for dry ingredients like flour and baking powder, and another for wet ingredients such as eggs and melted butter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy, opt for a standard set including 1-cup, ½-cup, and ¼-cup measures, plus spoons for teaspoons and tablespoons to ensure our Cherry Chip Loaf turns out perfectly balanced.
- Loaf Pan: A 9×5-inch non-stick metal loaf pan is ideal for even baking and easy release of the loaf once it’s done.
- Whisk and Spatula: A medium whisk helps incorporate air into the batter for a lighter texture, while a silicone spatula is great for folding in the fresh cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips without deflating the mixture.
- Oven and Timer: A reliable oven preheated to the correct temperature is crucial, paired with a kitchen timer to monitor baking time accurately.
- Cooling Rack: This allows the baked Cherry Chip Loaf to cool evenly and prevents sogginess, ensuring the best flavor and texture.
By having these items ready, we set ourselves up for baking success with our flavorful Cherry Chip Loaf recipe.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our simple, high-quality ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through preparing our irresistible Cherry Chip Loaf with straightforward, step-by-step directions that yield moist and flavorful results every time.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin mixing, it’s crucial to prepare our ingredients for optimal texture and flavor. Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. Next, rinse and pit 1 cup of fresh cherries, then chop them into quarters to release their juicy tartness—this step enhances the burst of flavor in every bite. Measure out the dry ingredients first: sift 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt into a large mixing bowl to avoid lumps. For the wet ingredients, crack 2 large eggs into a separate bowl, measure 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of whole milk, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Finally, add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the cherries, tossing them lightly to coat and prevent sinking during baking.
Mix the Batter
With our ingredients prepped, we combine them to create a smooth, velvety batter that promises a tender crumb. In the bowl with the dry ingredients, use a whisk to make a well in the center. Pour in the wet ingredients—eggs, sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract—and stir gently with a spatula until just combined, taking care not to overmix for a light, airy loaf. Fold in the prepared cherries and chocolate chips using swift, folding motions to distribute them evenly, resulting in pockets of sweet juiciness and rich chocolate that elevate the loaf’s indulgent appeal.
Bake the Loaf
Now we transfer our batter to the oven for baking, transforming it into a golden, aromatic masterpiece. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even rise. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—the loaf will fill your kitchen with the irresistible scent of warm cherries and chocolate. Rotate the pan halfway through for uniform browning, ensuring a perfectly moist interior.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, we cool the loaf to set its structure while preserving its soft, decadent texture. Remove the pan from the oven and let it rest on a cooling rack for 10 minutes, then gently invert to release the loaf and cool completely for another 30 minutes—this prevents crumbling and locks in the fresh, fruity essence. Slice into thick pieces to reveal the vibrant cherries and melted chocolate chips, serving warm for a satisfying snack or alongside coffee to savor the moist, tender bite that makes our Cherry Chip Loaf a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Cherry Chip Loaf even more convenient for busy schedules, we often prepare components in advance without compromising its moist and tender texture or the burst of juicy cherries and chocolate chips. Follow these steps to plan ahead and ensure your loaf remains fresh and flavorful.
Preparing the Batter Ahead
We suggest mixing the batter up to 24 hours in advance for optimal results. Start by combining the dry ingredients—all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt—in a large mixing bowl as outlined in our earlier steps. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients—granulated sugar, eggs, whole milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Gently fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips, then cover the batter tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator to preserve the fresh, vibrant flavors. When you’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to ensure even rising and a golden, aromatic crust.
Storing the Baked Loaf
If you’ve already baked your Cherry Chip Loaf, we recommend cooling it completely on a wire rack before storing. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container or resealable bag. For short-term storage, keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its soft crumb and rich cherry-chocolate taste. For longer freshness, refrigerate it for up to 5 days—simply slice and enjoy cold or warmed for that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Freezing for Later Use
Freezing is one of our favorite make-ahead strategies for this quick bread, allowing you to savor its delightful balance of flavors whenever you like. Here’s how:
- Unbaked Batter: Pour the prepared batter into a greased loaf pan, cover it with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual.
- Baked Loaf: After cooling, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in multiple layers of plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months to lock in moisture and prevent freezer burn.
| Storage Method | Duration | Thawing Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | No thawing needed; serve as is. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. |
| Freezer (Batter) | Up to 1 month | Thaw in fridge overnight. |
| Freezer (Baked) | Up to 3 months | Thaw in fridge for 4-6 hours or overnight; warm in oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. |
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure your Cherry Chip Loaf stays as irresistible as the day you made it, ready to enhance any gathering or snack time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cherry Chip Loaf recipe, as it’s a simple way to bring joy to your kitchen. It’s perfect for creating memorable moments with family or friends, blending ease with delicious results.
Try it out and experiment with your own twists—we’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Remember, great bakes start with quality ingredients and a bit of heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cherry Chip Loaf?
Cherry Chip Loaf is a moist, quick bread combining fresh cherries and chocolate chips, rooted in home baking traditions. It’s perfect for snacks or gatherings, offering a simple recipe that’s easy for all skill levels and delivers tender, flavorful results.
What ingredients are needed for Cherry Chip Loaf?
You’ll need dry ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, plus wet ones such as sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Add fresh cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips for flavor. Use high-quality components for the best taste and texture.
What equipment is required to make Cherry Chip Loaf?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a loaf pan, whisk, spatula, oven, and cooling rack. These help combine ingredients accurately and ensure a perfectly baked, moist loaf.
How do I prepare Cherry Chip Loaf?
Preheat your oven and prepare ingredients by rinsing and chopping cherries. Mix dry ingredients separately from wet ones, combine into a smooth batter, pour into a greased loaf pan, and bake until golden. Cool before slicing to enjoy the cherries and melted chips.
Can I make Cherry Chip Loaf ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake the loaf and store at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer. This keeps it fresh and convenient for busy schedules.
How should I store Cherry Chip Loaf?
For short-term, keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze the baked loaf or unbaked batter for extended storage—up to a month—to maintain flavor and texture. Always use airtight containers.