Chocolate Loaves with Cherry

Introduction

Chocolate Loaves with Cherry are a perfect combination of rich chocolate and sweet, tart cherries, resulting in a moist and decadent treat. The chocolate loaf is soft and fudgy, with bursts of cherry throughout, creating a delicious contrast in both flavor and texture. Topped with a simple glaze or dusted with powdered sugar, this dessert is sure to impress at any occasion.

I first made these loaves when I was craving something sweet and special, and they quickly became a favorite. The combination of the deep chocolate flavor and the pop of juicy cherries is irresistible. What’s great about this recipe is its versatility—you can enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or let it cool for a more traditional, sliced dessert.

Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a special celebration, or simply for yourself, these loaves are a delightful way to enjoy the classic pairing of chocolate and cherries. Each bite is a little moment of indulgence!

Perfect for:

• Special occasions
• Gift-giving
• Afternoon tea
• Chocolate and fruit lovers
• Holiday baking

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Loaves with Cherry

Here’s why Chocolate Loaves with Cherry will become your new favorite:

• Rich and Moist: The combination of cocoa and melted chocolate ensures a rich, moist loaf that melts in your mouth.
• Tart Cherry Flavor: The cherries provide a burst of flavor that balances the sweetness of the chocolate, making each bite a perfect blend of fruity and decadent.
• Simple to Make: This recipe is easy to follow and requires just a few ingredients to create a stunning dessert.
• Versatile: These loaves can be served on their own or with a glaze, whipped cream, or ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Perfect for Gifting: This is a great recipe for gifting to friends and family, packed in a decorative tin or wrapped in parchment paper.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 2 small loaves (about 8 servings each)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chocolate Loaves with Cherry:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
• ½ cup fresh or frozen cherries, chopped (pitted)
• 2 tablespoons cherry juice (optional, for extra flavor)
• For the Glaze (optional):
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cherry juice (or water)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Highlights

• Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the loaf without overwhelming the flavor.
• Cherries: Fresh or frozen cherries provide a tangy, juicy bite that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.
• Buttermilk: Buttermilk ensures a moist crumb and helps to activate the baking soda and powder, giving the loaf its perfect texture.
• Melted Chocolate: Using melted semi-sweet chocolate gives the loaf its rich, fudgy consistency and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chocolate Loaves with Cherry:

Prepare the Loaf Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two small loaf pans (8×4 inches) or line with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
5. Add the Buttermilk and Melted Chocolate: Gradually add the buttermilk and melted chocolate to the butter mixture, mixing until combined.
6. Add the Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid a dense loaf.
7. Fold in the Cherries: Gently fold in the chopped cherries and cherry juice (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Loaves:

8. Pour the Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
10. Cool: Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Glaze (optional):

11. Make the Glaze: While the loaves are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, cherry juice (or water), and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaves for a glossy finish.

How to Serve Chocolate Loaves with Cherry

Chocolate Loaves with Cherry are perfect for serving in a variety of ways:

• As a Dessert: Slice and serve on a dessert plate with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• For Afternoon Tea: These loaves pair perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
• As a Gift: Wrap the loaves in parchment paper or a decorative tin for a beautiful homemade gift.
• With a Side of Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chocolate.

Additional Tips for Chocolate Loaves with Cherry

Here are some tips to ensure your Chocolate Loaves with Cherry are perfect every time:

• Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries: Both fresh and frozen cherries work well, but if using frozen, do not thaw them to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in dense loaves, so mix only until the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
• Check for Doneness: The loaves may appear slightly soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool. If the toothpick comes out clean, they are ready.
• Optional Cherry Juice: If you want a more pronounced cherry flavor, add cherry juice to both the batter and the glaze for extra fruitiness.
• Let the Loaf Cool Completely: Allow the loaves to cool completely before slicing to ensure they don’t crumble or become too soft.

Recipe Variations for Chocolate Loaves with Cherry

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chocolate Loaves with Cherry:

• Cherry Almond Chocolate Loaf: Add a handful of chopped almonds to the batter for extra crunch and flavor.
• White Chocolate and Cherry Loaf: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a creamy contrast to the cherries.
• Cherry Cordial Loaf: Incorporate a few tablespoons of cherry liqueur into the batter for a boozy twist.
• Double Chocolate Cherry Loaf: Add extra chocolate chips to the batter for a double chocolate experience.
• Cherry and Pistachio Loaf: Pair chopped pistachios with cherries for a nutty and fruity flavor combination.
• Vegan Chocolate Cherry Loaf: Substitute plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and egg replacer for a vegan version.
• Gluten-Free Chocolate Cherry Loaf: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this loaf gluten-free.
• Chocolate Loaf with Dried Cherries: Swap fresh cherries for dried cherries for a chewier texture.
• Cherry and Coconut Chocolate Loaf: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
• Chocolate Loaf with Cherry Frosting: Instead of a glaze, top the loaves with a thick cherry-flavored frosting for a rich finish.

Freezing and Storage for Chocolate Loaves with Cherry

• Freezing: These loaves freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover loaves in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Special Equipment for Chocolate Loaves with Cherry

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Chocolate Loaves with Cherry easier:

• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will help you cream the butter and sugar to the perfect consistency.
• Loaf Pans: Use two 8×4-inch loaf pans to ensure even baking and perfect portion sizes.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements will give you the best results.
• Wire Rack: A cooling rack is essential for allowing the loaves to cool evenly.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your pans with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the loaves once baked.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chocolate Loaves with Cherry

1. Can I use frozen cherries?
   Yes, frozen cherries work well, but be sure not to thaw them to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
2. Can I make these loaves in advance?
   Yes, you can bake the loaves a day or two ahead of time. Store them at room temperature in an airtight container.
3. Can I make a single loaf instead of two?
   Yes, you can use a larger loaf pan (9×5 inches), but you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick.
4. Can I freeze the loaf?
   Yes, these loaves freeze beautifully. Wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
5. Can I use other fruits besides cherries?
   Yes, raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries are great substitutes for cherries.

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Conclusion

Chocolate Loaves with Cherry are a delicious and unique dessert that combines the best of both chocolate and fruit flavors. These moist, rich loaves are a perfect treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making these loaves irresistible. Whether you’re serving them for dessert or gifting them to friends, they are sure to be a hit and leave a lasting impression.

This recipe is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat, making it ideal for everything from cozy family get-togethers to festive events. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them yourself, these chocolate cherry loaves will bring joy to every bite.

I’d love to see how your Chocolate Loaves with Cherry turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!