Ingredients

  • 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds
  • Almond Butter
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon slivered almonds, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Method

  • Drain cherries, reserving juice; add enough water to juice to measure 1/2 cup.
  • Cut cherries into quarters; blot dry and set aside.
  • In a big bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Beat in vanilla.
  • Combine flour, baking powder and salt in another bowl; gradually add to creamed mixture alternatly with reserved juice.
  • Fold in the cherries and almonds.
  • Pour into a greased 9 x 5 inch loaf pan.
  • Bake in a preheated 350° oven for 50-60 minutes or until a pick comes out clean.
  • Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • In a small bowl, combine almond butter ingredients; serve with bread.