Christmas Cherry Loaf Cake – An Easy & Festive Holiday Treat

Ingredient Breakdown & Substitutions

Understanding each ingredient’s role in the Christmas Cherry Loaf Cake is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. This recipe uses classic baking staples with a few festive additions that make it stand out. Here’s a breakdown of each component and how you can adapt it if needed.

Butter (1/2 cup / 115g, softened): Provides richness and a tender crumb. Use unsalted butter to control the salt level. For a dairy-free version, swap with plant-based butter.

Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup / 150g): Sweetens the loaf and helps create a golden crust. You can reduce slightly if you prefer a less sweet loaf, though the candied cherries add plenty of sugar on their own.

Eggs (2 large): Bind ingredients and add structure. Let them reach room temperature before using for better incorporation.

Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds warm, subtle flavor. You can substitute with almond extract for a more nutty, holiday-inspired twist.

All-Purpose Flour (1 1/2 cups / 190g): The base of the batter. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Learn more about its function in the baking process here.

Baking Powder (1 1/2 tsp): Provides lift, making the cake rise.

Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Milk (1/2 cup / 120ml): Adds moisture. You can substitute with buttermilk or plant-based milk. Buttermilk gives a slightly tangy flavor and extra tenderness.

Red and Green Candied Cherries (1 1/2 cups total): These are the star of the show, adding color and chewiness. Chop and toss in flour to prevent sinking. Learn more about their history in holiday baking from this Christmas cake reference.

Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (1/2 cup, optional): Adds crunch and depth of flavor. Skip or replace with dried fruits or white chocolate chips if nut-free.

1 tbsp Flour (for tossing cherries and nuts): This simple step ensures even distribution throughout the loaf.

Want to explore more ideas using easy cherry dessert recipes? Check out this Pinterest board for inspiration.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Follow these easy instructions to create a loaf that’s soft, flavorful, and sure to impress this holiday season.

1. Preheat and prepare the pan:

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes the loaf easier to remove.

2. Cream the butter and sugar:

• In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). This step traps air, helping the cake rise properly.

3. Add eggs and vanilla:

• Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

• Stir in vanilla extract (or almond extract for a twist).

4. Combine dry ingredients:

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

5. Alternate dry ingredients and milk:

• Add the dry mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with milk.

• Start and end with flour. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix, as it may lead to a tough texture.

6. Prepare the cherries and nuts:

• Halve the red and green candied cherries. Toss them (and optional nuts) in 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking.

7. Fold into the batter:

• Gently fold the floured cherries and nuts into the batter using a spatula.

8. Bake the cake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

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

• If the top browns too quickly, tent it with foil halfway through.

9. Cool and remove from pan:

• Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

• Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing.

You can find more festive baked goods ideas here to inspire your next holiday bake.

Tips for a Perfect Loaf Every Time

To get the best results with your Christmas Cherry Loaf Cake, follow these proven tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps everything mix evenly, especially butter, eggs, and milk.

• Do not overmix: Stir just until ingredients are combined to prevent a dense loaf.

• Toss cherries in flour: This prevents them from sinking to the bottom.

• Tent foil if needed: If the top starts browning too fast, cover with foil during the last 15 minutes.

• Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.

• Let it cool fully: Cutting too early can cause crumbling and sticking.

• Store it properly: Wrapped tightly, it stays moist for several days.

For baking inspiration and loaf variations, check out this collection of holiday loaf cake inspiration.

Creative Variations and Customizations

There are so many ways to make this recipe your own while still keeping its holiday charm. Try these creative ideas:

• Add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

• Swap the nuts for dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots.

• Flavor the batter with orange zest, lemon zest, or a splash of rum extract for a classic Christmas twist.

• Top with glaze: Make a simple icing with powdered sugar and milk or go festive with a cream cheese drizzle.

• Make mini loaves for gifting. Bake in small pans, reduce baking time, and wrap individually.

Need more inspiration? Explore this Pinterest board for more Christmas baking gift ideas.

Serving Suggestions for the Holidays

This loaf cake shines on any holiday table. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

• Serve warm with a mug of hot cocoa, tea, or coffee.

• Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a light dessert.

• Slice and display on a dessert platter with cookies and truffles.

• Wrap individual slices and add them to holiday treat boxes for neighbors, friends, or coworkers.

Looking to explore how this fits into traditional Christmas desserts? Visit this Christmas cake overview for ideas from around the world.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Gifting Tips

One of the best features of this Christmas Cherry Loaf Cake is its make-ahead convenience. Here’s how to keep it fresh and ready to gift:

• Store at room temperature: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Stays fresh for 3–4 days.

• Refrigerate to extend freshness: Keeps for up to a week.

• Freeze it: Wrap in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temp.

• Gift wrapping ideas: Use wax paper, holiday ribbon, or decorative loaf boxes. Find inspiration from this Pinterest guide to treat packaging.

Explore food preservation tips here to help your baked goods last longer without losing flavor or texture.

Nutrition Information & Dietary Considerations

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile of this loaf cake per slice (based on 10 servings):

• Calories: ~280

• Fat: ~12g

• Sugar: ~26g

• Protein: ~4g

• Carbs: ~36g

Allergy notes:

• Contains eggs, dairy, and optional nuts.

• To make it nut-free, simply omit the walnuts or pecans.

• For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

• Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free cherry loaf.

Learn more about how baked goods vary nutritionally by reading about the baking process here.

FAQs

Can I use maraschino cherries instead of candied cherries?
Yes, but make sure to drain and pat them dry thoroughly before adding to the batter. They are juicier and can affect texture if too wet.

How do I stop cherries from sinking in the loaf cake?
Toss them in a tablespoon of flour before folding into the batter. This coats them lightly and helps them stay suspended.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. It stores well for several days and even better after resting a day. You can also freeze it to enjoy later.

What’s the best way to store cherry loaf cake?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store at room temperature for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze it.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

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