Cherry Loaf with Coconut is a delicious dessert that combines the fruity sweetness of cherries with the tropical charm of coconut. It’s a moist and flavorful quick bread that makes for a delightful snack, breakfast companion, or a dessert centerpiece. The texture is perfectly soft with bursts of juicy cherries and the gentle crunch of toasted coconut flakes. Finished with a luscious coconut glaze, this loaf is as visually appealing as it is tasty—ideal for gatherings, holidays, or simply indulging your sweet tooth at home.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Loaf:

2 large eggs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
½ cup sour cream
½ cup coconut milk
¾ cup granulated sugar
1½ teaspoons coconut extract
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and quartered
½ cup toasted coconut flakes

For the Glaze:

¾ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
¼ teaspoon coconut extract

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, coconut milk, eggs, sour cream, melted butter, coconut extract, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside 3 tablespoons of this mixture to toss with the cherries.
Sift the remaining dry mixture into the wet ingredients and mix until almost fully incorporated. Do not overmix.
Coat the quartered cherries with the reserved flour mixture to prevent sinking during baking. Reserve ¼ cup of the cherries for topping.
Fold the remaining cherries and the toasted coconut flakes into the batter using a spatula.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and arrange the reserved cherries on top.
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and coconut extract until smooth.
Once the loaf is fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Optionally, garnish with more toasted coconut, fresh cherries, and mint leaves.

Nutrients

Calories: ~320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg
Potassium: 150mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 25g
Calcium: 30mg
Iron: 1mg

The Appeal of Fruit Loaves in Baking

Fruit loaves have been a staple in many kitchens for centuries. These sweet breads are often enjoyed as snacks, breakfasts, or desserts, and they have a comforting, homemade appeal. What makes fruit loaves especially popular is their versatility and ability to incorporate a wide range of fruits, from bananas to berries, and even tropical fruits like coconut and pineapple.

The combination of fruit and bread creates a delightful texture, with the fruit pieces adding bursts of natural sweetness and moisture to the bread. Fruit loaves are often easier to make than cakes and can be enjoyed without the need for frosting or elaborate decorations. Cherry Loaf with Coconut is no exception—it’s a straightforward recipe that delivers complex flavors, offering a perfect blend of the sweetness of cherries and the richness of coconut.

Why Choose Cherry Loaf with Coconut?

When deciding on a recipe to bake for a gathering or a treat to enjoy at home, Cherry Loaf with Coconut stands out for several reasons. First, it’s relatively easy to make, which is perfect for beginner bakers or those looking for a quick yet impressive dessert. The ingredients are common and easy to find, yet the flavors are anything but ordinary. The tangy cherries provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy, sweet coconut, making each bite satisfying and decadent.

Furthermore, Cherry Loaf with Coconut is a great way to make use of fresh, in-season cherries. Cherries have a very short harvesting season, and this recipe allows you to fully take advantage of their natural sweetness and tartness. If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries are an excellent substitute, making this recipe versatile year-round.

Another reason to try this loaf is the ease of customization. You can adjust the amount of coconut to your liking or even add in other ingredients like chopped nuts or dried fruit to give it your own personal touch. For those with dietary restrictions, it can be made gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and it can be adapted for vegan diets by using plant-based substitutes for the eggs and butter.

The Health Benefits of Coconut and Cherries

Not only is Cherry Loaf with Coconut delicious, but it also provides some health benefits thanks to the ingredients used. While this loaf is still a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, the coconut and cherries offer nutritional advantages.

Coconut: Coconut is a rich source of healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known to be easily converted into energy by the body. Additionally, coconut contains fiber, which is beneficial for digestion, and essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Coconut also has antimicrobial properties due to lauric acid, which may help support immune health.
Cherries: Cherries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which are responsible for their deep red color. These antioxidants help fight oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Cherries also contain melatonin, a natural compound that regulates sleep, making them a great fruit to enjoy before bedtime. Rich in vitamin C and potassium, cherries help support a healthy immune system and promote heart health.

Although this recipe is a dessert, the combination of cherries and coconut makes it a more health-conscious option compared to other sugary treats. When enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, this loaf offers a way to indulge while still benefiting from the nutritional properties of both coconut and cherries.

Cherry Loaf with Coconut as a Versatile Dessert

One of the greatest things about Cherry Loaf with Coconut is its versatility. It can be served in various settings, from casual gatherings to more formal occasions. It’s perfect for a brunch spread, served alongside coffee or tea, or as a sweet finish to a meal. It can be made ahead of time, allowing you to prepare it the night before a gathering or family dinner.

The loaf can also be customized to fit the season or your personal preferences. During the summer, fresh cherries shine, but during the off-season, frozen cherries work just as well, making it a year-round treat. You can adjust the recipe to fit the mood of the season, whether you add a little cinnamon or nutmeg in the fall or opt for a lighter touch in the warmer months.

The texture of the loaf allows for endless variations as well. You can add a crumb topping, drizzle additional glaze, or even mix in coconut flakes throughout the loaf for added texture. This adaptability ensures that it can cater to a wide variety of tastes and preferences, making it an ideal recipe for any baker to have in their repertoire.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cherry Loaf with Coconut

While Cherry Loaf with Coconut is a relatively easy recipe, there are a few tips to ensure that it turns out perfectly every time. These simple techniques will help achieve the ideal texture and flavor, ensuring that your loaf is a success.

Properly measure ingredients: Accurate measurements are key when baking. Be sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can make the loaf dense and dry.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough loaf. Mix the ingredients until just combined, leaving a few lumps in the batter. This will ensure that the loaf remains light and fluffy.
Coat the cherries with flour: To prevent the cherries from sinking to the bottom of the loaf, lightly toss them in a little flour before adding them to the batter. This will help distribute the cherries evenly throughout the loaf.
Test for doneness: Since every oven is different, it’s important to check your loaf for doneness. Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean, the loaf is ready. If not, bake it for a few more minutes and check again.
Allow the loaf to cool completely: Let the loaf cool before drizzling the glaze on top. This will prevent the glaze from melting and soaking into the loaf. Cooling the loaf also helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Conclusion: Why Cherry Loaf with Coconut is a Must-Try Recipe

Cherry Loaf with Coconut is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that make it a standout dessert. The combination of juicy cherries and creamy coconut creates a treat that is both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to serve at a family gathering, a sweet snack with your afternoon coffee, or a unique treat for a special occasion, this loaf is the perfect choice.

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