Pistachio Cherry Bread – 5 Sweet Reasons to Bake Today

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the delightful flavors of Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet! This gorgeous loaf is a celebration of textures and tastes, with crunchy pistachios and chewy dried cherries dancing together in every bite. I can’t help but smile when I think about the first time I made it for my family’s holiday gathering. The aroma wafted through the house, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s the perfect treat for any celebration, bringing a touch of whimsy to your table. Trust me, once you try this bread, you’ll be hooked on its unique combination of ingredients and the joy it brings to every occasion!

Pistachio Cherry Bread - festive & sweet! - detail 1

Ingredients List

You’ll need some simple yet delightful ingredients to whip up this Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pistachios (feel free to roast them for extra flavor!)
  • 1 cup dried cherries (the sweeter, the better!)

Make sure to gather everything before you start, as having all your ingredients ready to go really makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Happy baking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making the Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a beautiful loaf ready to impress in no time.

  1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly!
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. I like to use a hand mixer for this, but a whisk works just fine too—just put a little muscle into it!
  3. Now, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, making it nice and light.
  4. Next, stir in the milk and vanilla extract. The mixture will start to look smooth and creamy, and trust me, it smells divine!
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is super important because it evenly distributes the leavening agent throughout the flour.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I usually do this in three parts, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender loaf!
  7. Now for the fun part—fold in those glorious chopped pistachios and dried cherries. This is where the magic happens, and you’ll see all those beautiful colors come together!
  8. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, making sure to spread it evenly. Don’t be shy—give it a little shake to settle everything nicely.
  9. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it because every oven is a bit different!
  10. Once it’s baked to perfection, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps to prevent it from getting soggy and allows the flavors to deepen.

And that’s it! With these straightforward steps, you’ll have a scrumptious Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet that your friends and family will adore. Enjoy every slice!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional information for this delightful Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredients, so they might vary a bit depending on what you use. Here’s the breakdown for one slice of this scrumptious bread:

  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

So, while you indulge in each slice, you can feel good about the wholesome ingredients and the delightful flavors! Just remember, everything in moderation, right? Enjoy your baking adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick preparation time—whip it up in about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven!
  • Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it easy for bakers of all levels.
  • The delightful combination of sweet cherries and crunchy pistachios will leave your taste buds singing!
  • It’s festive enough to impress at holiday gatherings yet casual enough for a cozy family dinner.
  • The aroma while it’s baking is pure bliss—your home will smell like a bakery!
  • Perfect for gifting—wrap it up and share the love with friends and family.
  • Versatile—enjoy it warm with butter, or as a sweet treat alongside your morning coffee.
  • It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to have everyone asking for the recipe!

Tips for Success

Let’s make sure your Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips to elevate your baking game:

  • Choose quality ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh dried cherries and good-quality pistachios. If you can, opt for unsalted pistachios to control the saltiness in your bread.
  • Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps everything mix together smoothly and creates a fluffier texture!
  • Don’t overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet ones, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread, and we definitely want it light and airy!
  • Check for doneness: Start checking your bread around the 50-minute mark. Ovens vary, so a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  • Let it cool: Be patient and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure and enhances the flavor!
  • Experiment with spices: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. It adds a warm, festive touch that complements the cherries beautifully.
  • Enhance with a glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread for a sweet finishing touch. It not only looks pretty but adds a delightful sweetness!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet that your loved ones will rave about. Happy baking!

Variations

Let’s get creative with your Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet! There are so many delightful twists you can put on this classic recipe to keep things exciting. Here are some fun ideas to inspire you:

  • Nutty Switch-Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping pistachios for walnuts or almonds. They each bring a unique flavor and texture that can completely change the vibe of your bread!
  • Fruit Fusion: Mix in some chopped dried apricots or cranberries along with the cherries for a lovely burst of color and flavor. You could even use fresh cherries when they’re in season—just remember to adjust the baking time since they contain more moisture!
  • Chocolate Lovers: For a decadent twist, fold in some dark chocolate chips or chunks. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet cherries and nutty pistachios—yum!
  • Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrusy note. It brightens everything up and feels so festive!
  • Spiced Up: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or a dash of ginger for a warm, spicy kick. This is especially delightful during the colder months when cozy flavors are a must!
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free too, and you’re set!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own magical combinations! Each variation brings a new twist to this already fabulous Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet, and I can’t wait to hear what you come up with. Happy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store your delicious Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet! Proper storage is key to keeping that moist, flavorful goodness intact. Once your bread has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help keep the moisture in and prevent it from drying out.

For the best results, store your wrapped bread in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. It’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 days, but if you want to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge, where it can last up to a week.

If you’ve got leftovers and want to save them for a rainy day (or a sweet craving!), you can freeze your Pistachio Cherry Bread too! Just slice it up, wrap each piece individually, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can take out just what you want without thawing the whole loaf. It’ll be good for up to 2 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy your bread again, simply take out a slice and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer it warm, you can pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or toast it lightly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste. Trust me, the aroma will have everyone buzzing with excitement! Enjoy every bite!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked your fabulous Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet, it’s time to think about how to serve it up! Trust me, pairing it with just the right accompaniments can elevate your experience to a whole new level. Here are some delightful ideas to consider:

  • Butter Bliss: A simple spread of softened butter on a warm slice is heavenly. For an extra treat, try flavored butter—like honey or cinnamon butter—for a sweet twist!
  • Cheese Pairing: Cream cheese or mascarpone adds a rich, creamy element that complements the sweetness of the bread beautifully. You could even whip in some herbs or honey for added flavor!
  • Fruit & Jam: Serve with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of cherry or raspberry jam to enhance the fruity notes in the bread. It’s like a little party on your plate!
  • Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea pairs wonderfully with this bread. I love a nice chai tea or a creamy latte to balance out the sweetness.
  • Yogurt Parfait: For a brunch option, slice the bread and layer it with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits for a delightful parfait. It’s not only pretty but also adds a lovely tartness!
  • Ice Cream Indulgence: For a decadent dessert, serve a slice warmed up with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream on top. The contrast of warm and cold is pure bliss!
  • Charcuterie Board: Slice it up and include it on a charcuterie board with nuts, olives, and slices of cheese. It adds a festive touch to any gathering!

With these serving suggestions, your Pistachio Cherry Bread – festive & sweet will be the star of any gathering or cozy afternoon snack. Enjoy the delicious combinations and the happy smiles that come with them!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pistachio Cherry Bread - festive & sweet!

Pistachio Cherry Bread – 5 Sweet Reasons to Bake Today

  • Author: [email protected]
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Festive and sweet pistachio cherry bread.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pistachios
  • 1 cup dried cherries

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
  4. Stir in milk and vanilla.
  5. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
  7. Fold in pistachios and cherries.
  8. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
  9. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  10. Let cool before slicing.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Can be served warm or at room temperature.
  • Add extra cherries for more sweetness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Pistachio Cherry Bread, festive bread, sweet bread

Spread the love

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating