There’s something irresistibly comforting about a Cherry Chip Loaf that makes it a favorite in many households. This loaf combines the tartness of cherries with the sweet surprise of chocolate chips, creating a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up.
Ingredients
To make our Cherry Chip Loaf wonderfully moist and flavorful, we gather the following ingredients carefully. Each component plays a key role in delivering the perfect balance between tart cherries and rich chocolate chips, ensuring the classic taste that everyone loves. Here is the detailed list with exact measurements:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Sifted for light texture |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) | Softened at room temp |
| Eggs | 2 large | Beaten |
| Buttermilk | 1/2 cup | At room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure for best flavor |
| Maraschino cherries | 1 cup | Drained and chopped |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 3/4 cup |
Tip: Always ensure your butter is softened but not melted to maintain the right texture in the loaf.
The combination of maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips is the heart of this recipe making it a distinctive and beloved treat suited for any time of day. We recommend prepping the cherries and measuring the chips precisely to achieve an even distribution in the batter for every slice.
Equipment Needed
To bake our delicious Cherry Chip Loaf to perfection, we need the right equipment. Each tool plays a crucial role in ensuring the batter blends smoothly and the loaf bakes evenly with the perfect texture.
Essential Tools for Baking Cherry Chip Loaf
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Loaf Pan (9×5 inch) | Provides the shape and size for our loaf |
| Mixing Bowls | Used for combining dry and wet ingredients separately |
| Electric Mixer or Whisk | Ensures thorough mixing for a smooth batter |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Delivers accurate measurements of ingredients |
| Rubber Spatula | Scrapes the sides of bowls to incorporate all ingredients |
| Cooling Rack | Allows the loaf to cool evenly preventing sogginess |
| Sieve or Fine Mesh Strainer | Sifts flour and baking powder to avoid lumps |
| Cherry Strainer or Slotted Spoon | Removes excess maraschino syrup before adding cherries to batter |
Additional Helpful Items
- Parchment Paper or Non-stick Spray: For easy loaf pan prep and hassle-free removal of our cherry chip loaf.
- Toothpick or Cake Tester: To check for doneness by inserting into the center of the loaf.
- Oven Thermometer: To verify our oven temperature is accurate for consistent baking results.
Prep Work
Before we dive into mixing our Cherry Chip Loaf batter, let’s take a few moments to ensure our ingredients and equipment are ready. Proper prep work guarantees a flawless texture and flavor in every slice.
Preparing the Cherry Chips
The key to an even distribution of cherries and chocolate chips lies in their preparation:
- Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly using a cherry strainer or slotted spoon to remove excess syrup. This prevents the batter from becoming too wet.
- Pat cherries dry with paper towels to eliminate moisture.
- Chop the cherries into smaller pieces if they are too large, ensuring they blend well throughout the loaf.
- Toss the cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips lightly in about 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour. This coating helps prevent the chips and cherries from sinking to the bottom during baking.
| Item | Preparation Steps |
|---|---|
| Maraschino cherries | Drain, dry, chop if needed, toss in 1 tbsp flour |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | Toss lightly in 1 tbsp flour |
“Lightly flouring the chips and cherries is a secret technique that keeps the top and bottom of our Cherry Chip Loaf balanced with flavorful bursts.”
Preheating the Oven and Greasing the Pan
Precision in these steps ensures perfect baking and an easy release:
- Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to preheat before mixing the batter. This ensures even cooking from the moment the loaf goes in.
- Prepare the loaf pan by greasing it generously with softened unsalted butter or spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
- For an extra safeguard, line the loaf pan with parchment paper extending slightly over the edges. This helps lift the loaf cleanly after baking without sticking.
- Keep a toothpick or cake tester nearby for doneness checks once the loaf approaches the 50-minute mark in baking.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare our Cherry Chip Loaf recipe perfectly. We will guide you through mixing the batter, incorporating the cherry and chocolate chips, and pouring the batter into the pan with precision.
Mixing the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix until the texture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix gently.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and 1/2 cup buttermilk to the creamed butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed to combine without overmixing. The batter should be smooth with a slightly thick consistency.
Incorporating the Cherry Chips
- Gently fold in the prepared cherry and chocolate chips to the batter using a rubber spatula.
- To ensure even distribution and prevent sinking, the cherries and chocolate chips should already be lightly tossed in flour.
- Carefully combine until all pieces are evenly spread throughout the batter. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- This step is essential for the characteristic bursts of tart cherry flavor and sweet chocolate in every slice.
Pouring Batter into the Pan
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the loaf pan | Grease with butter or non-stick spray. Line with parchment for easy removal |
| 2 | Transfer the batter | Use a spatula to scrape all batter from the bowl |
| 3 | Even out the batter in the pan | Smooth the top gently with the back of a spoon |
| 4 | Ready for baking | Place in preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) |
Pro Tip: For an even bake, tap the loaf pan gently on the counter twice to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter.
With the batter poured carefully, we are now ready to bake our Cherry Chip Loaf to golden perfection.
Baking Directions
Now that our batter is perfectly prepared and poured into the pan, it’s time to focus on baking our Cherry Chip Loaf to golden perfection. Precise baking time and temperature are crucial for achieving a tender crumb with a beautiful crust.
Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) as we discussed earlier. Place the loaf pan on the center rack to ensure even heat distribution.
Bake the Cherry Chip Loaf for 50 to 60 minutes. The exact baking time depends on your oven’s consistency and the pan you use. To promote an even bake:
- Avoid opening the oven door during the first 40 minutes.
- Rotate the pan halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.
- Use a lower rack if the loaf is browning too fast on top.
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time |
|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 50 to 60 minutes |
Checking for Doneness
To verify if our Cherry Chip Loaf is perfectly baked through:
- Insert a clean toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf.
- If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging, the loaf is done.
- If batter sticks to the toothpick, extend baking time by 5-minute increments, checking frequently.
“A clean toothpick test is our most reliable method to ensure a moist, tender crumb without underbaking.”
Once done, remove the loaf from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely. This prevents the loaf from becoming soggy and helps preserve the texture we worked hard to achieve.
Cooling and Serving
Once the Cherry Chip Loaf is baked to a golden perfection, it’s crucial to let it cool properly for the best texture and flavor. Here’s how we recommend cooling and serving our cherry chip loaf to delight every bite:
Cooling Steps:
- Remove the loaf pan carefully from the oven using oven mitts. Place it on a heatproof surface.
- Let the loaf rest in the pan for about 15 minutes. This allows the loaf to set and makes it easier to remove without breaking.
- Run a thin knife around the edges of the loaf to loosen it from the pan.
- Invert the loaf onto a cooling rack. This step ensures air circulates evenly around the bread, preventing sogginess.
- Allow the Cherry Chip Loaf to cool completely, about 1 to 2 hours, before slicing.
Why Proper Cooling Matters:
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Maintains Moisture | Prevents drying out by balancing moisture |
| Retains Tender Crumb | Supports a soft fluffy texture |
| Makes Slicing Easier | Reduces crumbling and sticking to the pan |
| Enhances Flavor | Allows flavors to meld and deepen |
Serving Suggestions:
- Slice the loaf with a serrated knife for clean cuts showcasing the cherries and chocolate chips.
- Serve plain or with a light spread of butter for a simple treat.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or afternoon snack.
- For dessert, add whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar to enhance sweetness.
- Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
“The perfect Cherry Chip Loaf isn’t just about baking—it’s about letting it cool and serving it right. This ensures every bite bursts with balanced flavor, delightful texture, and that nostalgic homemade charm.”
By following these cooling and serving guidelines, we guarantee our Cherry Chip Loaf will be a cherished favorite anytime it hits the table.
Storage Tips
To preserve the moisture and flavor of our Cherry Chip Loaf, proper storage is crucial. Follow these steps to keep your loaf fresh and delicious:
Short-Term Storage (Up to 2 Days)
- Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Keep it in an airtight container to prevent drying out and absorbing unwanted odors.
Medium-Term Storage (Up to 1 Week)
- Place the wrapped loaf in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Refrigerate to slow spoilage and maintain texture.
- Before serving, bring to room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore softness.
Long-Term Storage (Up to 3 Months)
- Slice the loaf before freezing for easier portioning later.
- Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly with plastic wrap then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date to monitor storage time.
- Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or warm them directly with a toaster oven or microwave.
Quick Reference Table for Storage
| Storage Method | Duration | Wrapping | Storage Location | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Plastic wrap or foil | Cool dry place | Serve as is |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Airtight container | Refrigerator | Warm gently before serving |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Plastic + foil wrap | Freezer | Thaw overnight or warm slices |
Pro Tip: Always allow the loaf to cool completely before wrapping to avoid condensation which can cause sogginess or mold.
By following these Storage Tips, our Cherry Chip Loaf stays tender and flavorful, ensuring every bite tastes just as delightful as the first.
Conclusion
Baking the Cherry Chip Loaf brings a wonderful blend of tart cherries and sweet chocolate chips to our table. It’s a recipe that’s both simple and rewarding, perfect for any occasion. With the right preparation and attention to detail, every loaf turns out moist, flavorful, and full of nostalgic charm.
Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, this loaf never fails to satisfy. We’re confident that once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen just like it has in ours. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cherry Chip Loaf so popular?
Cherry Chip Loaf combines the tartness of cherries with sweet chocolate chips, creating a perfect flavor balance. Its comforting taste, versatility for meals or snacks, and easy preparation make it a favorite in many households.
What are the key ingredients in Cherry Chip Loaf?
The main ingredients include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, unsalted butter, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, maraschino cherries, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
How should I prepare cherries and chocolate chips for the loaf?
Drain and dry the maraschino cherries, chop them if large, and toss both cherries and chocolate chips in a little flour to prevent sinking during baking.
What equipment do I need for baking Cherry Chip Loaf?
You need a loaf pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, rubber spatula, cooling rack, sieve, cherry strainer or slotted spoon, parchment paper or non-stick spray, toothpick or cake tester, and an oven thermometer.
What is the ideal baking temperature and time?
Bake the Cherry Chip Loaf at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 40 minutes for even baking.
How do I check if the Cherry Chip Loaf is done?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the loaf is fully baked.
Why is cooling the loaf important?
Cooling helps maintain moisture, ensures a tender crumb, makes slicing easier, and enhances the overall flavor of the loaf.
How should I store leftover Cherry Chip Loaf?
Store leftovers at room temperature (up to 2 days) wrapped tightly, in the refrigerator (up to 1 week) in an airtight container, or freeze (up to 3 months) wrapped in plastic and foil after ensuring the loaf is completely cool.