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CHERRY ALMOND LOAF CAKE — MOIST, FRUITY, WITH A DELIGHTFUL CRUNCH

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CHERRY ALMOND LOAF CAKE — MOIST, FRUITY, WITH A DELIGHTFUL CRUNCH

CHERRY ALMOND LOAF CAKE — MOIST, FRUITY, WITH A DELIGHTFUL CRUNCH

Simple loaf cake gets an upgrade with juicy cherries and toasted almond flakes, delivering moistness and an intriguing texture. Ground almonds add a subtle nuttiness to the batter, while whole flakes provide a pleasant crunch. Perfect for those seeking a cake with character beyond the basic.

🕒 Prep Time: 15 min

⏲️ Baking Time: 50 min
🍽️ Yields: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

  • 220 g all-purpose flour
  • ½ packet baking powder (approx. 7 g)
  • 50 g almond flakes
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 150 g unsalted butter
  • 150 g brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon cognac
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 handfuls pitted cherries (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 4 tablespoons whole almond flakes (for topping and layering)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a standard loaf pan or a 13 cm diameter round bundt pan with a hole in the center.
  • Using a food processor or stand mixer, cream butter and brown sugar until well combined but not fully dissolved.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
  • Grind 50 g almond flakes finely in a coffee grinder or food processor.
  • Sift together flour, ground almonds, salt, and baking powder.
  • Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, then stir in cognac. The batter will be thick, slightly sticky, and hold well on a spoon.

2. Layer and Bake

  • Pour half the batter into the prepared pan.
  • Sprinkle whole almond flakes and cherries lightly dusted with flour over the batter layer.
  • Cover with remaining batter, then top again with almond flakes and flour-coated cherries.
  • Note: The batter should fill only about half the height of the pan to allow room for rising.
  • For extra treats, use leftover batter for muffins, topping each with almond flakes and a cherry.

Bake for about 50 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, the cake is done. If not, bake a little longer.

💡 Tips

  • Dust cherries in flour to prevent sinking to the bottom.
  • Grinding some almond flakes into the batter adds moisture and nuttiness.
  • Use fresh or frozen cherries depending on season, or canned cherries drained well.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Fruity, nutty loaf cakes
  • Afternoon tea or brunch
  • Homemade gifts and celebrations

📝 Final Thoughts

This cherry almond loaf cake offers a harmonious balance of juicy fruit and crunchy nuts in a moist, tender crumb. The addition of cognac adds subtle depth, making it a sophisticated twist on a classic treat.