Cherry Almond Bread Pudding You Will Adore

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November 2, 2025

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Cherry Almond Bread Pudding : Cherry Almond Bread Pudding You Will Adore

A Story of Comfort: How Cherry Almond Bread Pudding Became Our Family’s Warmest Hug

Have you ever stopped to think about how some recipes are more than just instructions? How they become quiet keepers of our stories, absorbing the laughter, the silence, and the love shared around a kitchen table? For me, flavor and memory are woven together so tightly it’s impossible to pull them apart. The scent of cinnamon is my grandmother’s kitchen on a Sunday morning; the taste of ripe tomatoes is my father’s garden in late August. This delicious Cherry Almond Bread Pudding is one of those recipes. It’s not just a dessert; it’s the feeling of a warm blanket on a cool Oregon evening, a quiet celebration of simple ingredients, and a reminder that the best things in life are often born from what we already have.

It began on a day when the cupboards felt a little bare and the world outside felt a little too loud. I had a loaf of day old bread, a handful of almonds, and a bag of frozen cherries from last summer’s farmers market haul. My son, James, was home with a cold, and the house needed a dose of warmth and comfort. I remembered my own mother turning stale bread into something magical, a simple alchemy that felt like a superpower. That’s the heart of this dish a humble, forgiving dessert that asks for very little but gives back so much. It’s a recipe that proves that with a little milk, a few eggs, and a touch of sweetness, you can create something truly special. This is more than just a bread pudding with cherries and almonds; it’s a bowlful of nostalgia, a sweet and satisfying dessert that tastes like home.

Why You’ll Love This Comforting Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

This recipe has become a treasured part of our family’s rhythm, and I know it will find a special place in yours, too. It’s the kind of dessert that gathers people together, that fills the house with an incredible aroma, and that feels both indulgent and deeply nourishing. Here’s why this Almond Cherry Bread Pudding will become your new favorite:

It’s Wonderfully Forgiving and Simple: This is the perfect recipe for a beginner cook or for a day when you just don’t have the energy for something complicated. There are no fancy techniques here. You’re simply tearing bread, whisking a custard, and letting the oven do the work. It’s one of the most accessible ways to create an impressive dessert, making it the perfect Easy Cherry Almond Bread Pudding for a weeknight treat or a last minute gathering. It’s a testament to slow, mindful cooking that celebrates simplicity.
A Perfect Way to Reduce Food Waste: I’ve always believed that a resourceful kitchen is a happy kitchen. This recipe is the ultimate celebration of that philosophy, giving purpose to bread that’s a day or two past its prime. That slightly dry, stale bread is actually the secret to the best texture; it soaks up the creamy custard beautifully without turning to mush. It feels good to turn something that might have been discarded into a Homemade Cherry Almond Bread Pudding that everyone will love.
An Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The magic of this dish lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweet, slightly tart cherries burst with warmth, while the toasted almonds provide a lovely, nutty crunch. It’s a classic pairing for a reason. The creamy, vanilla scented custard holds it all together, creating a Sweet Cherry Almond Bread Pudding that is both sophisticated and incredibly comforting. For a similar flavor profile, you might also adore this Raspberry Almond Bread Pudding.
Endlessly Adaptable to Your Tastes: Think of this recipe as a beautiful blank canvas. While the cherry and almond combination is a dream, you can easily adapt it to what you have on hand. Don’t have almonds? Try walnuts or pecans. Have fresh peaches instead of cherries? Go for it! You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth or even some chocolate chips for a more decadent twist. This flexibility makes it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: There are some dishes that just feel like a hug, and this is one of them. A Warm Cherry Almond Bread Pudding, served straight from the oven, is pure bliss. It’s cozy, satisfying, and fills the soul as much as the stomach. It’s perfect for a chilly day, a holiday gathering, or any time you need a little extra comfort in your life. We love it served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which melts into a luscious sauce over the warm pudding. It’s truly the Best Cherry Almond Bread Pudding for creating those cozy, lasting memories.

Ingredients for Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

The beauty of this Cherry Almond Dessert lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. You likely have most of these in your pantry and refrigerator already. Using good quality ingredients will make this humble dessert truly shine.

Bread: 6 cups of day old or stale bread, cut or torn into 1 inch cubes. A rich bread like brioche or challah is fantastic, but a sturdy French or Italian loaf works beautifully too.
Cherries: 1 ½ cups of pitted cherries (fresh or frozen). If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first.
Almonds: ½ cup of sliced or slivered almonds, toasted, plus extra for topping. Toasting them brings out their nutty flavor.
Milk and Cream: 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. This combination creates a rich, luxurious custard. For a lighter version, you can use all whole milk.
Eggs: 4 large eggs, lightly beaten. They are the binder that creates the creamy, set custard.
Sugar: ¾ cup of granulated sugar. You can adjust this slightly based on the sweetness of your cherries. Brown sugar is also a great substitute for a deeper, molasses flavor.
Vanilla: 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract.
Almond Extract: ½ teaspoon of almond extract. This is optional, but it really enhances the almond flavor. A little goes a long way!
Spices: ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. A pinch of nutmeg would also be a lovely addition.
Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing the dish.
Salt: ¼ teaspoon of salt, to balance the sweetness.

How to Make Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

Making this dessert is a quiet, meditative process. It’s about simple actions: tearing bread, whisking custard, and waiting for the oven to perform its magic. It’s the perfect recipe to make with kids, as each step is straightforward and fun.

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Dish and Bread: First, find a moment of peace. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or a similar 2 quart casserole dish with butter. Place your cubed bread in a large bowl. If your almonds aren’t toasted yet, spread them on a baking sheet and toast in the preheating oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Watch them closely, as they can burn quickly! Sprinkle half of the toasted almonds and all the cherries over the bread cubes and gently toss to distribute them evenly. Then, pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it in an even layer.
Whisk the Creamy Custard: In the same large bowl (no need to create extra dishes), whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until they are pale and well combined. There’s a quiet satisfaction in this simple motion. Next, slowly whisk in the whole milk, heavy cream, melted butter, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), cinnamon, and salt. Continue whisking until everything is smooth and fully incorporated. This fragrant mixture is the heart of your Moist Cherry Almond Bread Pudding.
Combine and Soak: Now for the magic. Slowly and evenly pour the custard mixture over the bread in the baking dish. Make sure to cover all the bread. Gently press down on the bread with the back of a spoon to help it absorb the liquid. Let the dish sit at room temperature for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial; it allows the dry bread to soak up all that creamy goodness, ensuring a perfectly moist and tender pudding rather than a dry and eggy one.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Sprinkle the remaining toasted almonds over the top of the pudding. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set (a knife inserted near the center comes out clean) and the top is beautifully golden brown and slightly puffed. Your kitchen will be filled with the most incredible, comforting Cherry Almond Bread Pudding aroma.
Rest and Serve: This might be the hardest part! Let the bread pudding cool for at least 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to firm up a bit more, making it easier to slice and serve. It is absolutely delicious served warm, just as it is, or with a little something extra. Read on for some of my favorite serving suggestions!

Pro Tips & Variations

Over the years, I’ve learned a few things that take this bread pudding recipe from great to absolutely unforgettable. Here are some of my favorite tips and creative variations to help you make this dish your own.

The Bread Matters: The best bread pudding starts with the right bread. A rich, eggy bread like brioche or challah will give you an incredibly decadent, almost cake like texture. However, a sturdy sourdough offers a delightful tang that contrasts beautifully with the sweet custard. For an idea of how to make a classic pudding first, you might look at this wonderful Bread Pudding II recipe for inspiration. The key is to use bread that’s dry and stale; fresh bread will become too soggy. If your bread is fresh, simply cube it and leave it out on the counter for a few hours or bake it in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for about 10 minutes to dry it out.
Don’t Skip the Soaking Time: I know it’s tempting to rush this step, but giving the bread at least 20 minutes to soak in the custard is non negotiable. This is what ensures that every single piece of bread is saturated with flavor and bakes into a uniformly creamy, moist Cherry Almond Bread Pudding. If you have the time, you can even assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. This makes it a fantastic make ahead dessert for a holiday or brunch.
Toast Your Nuts: Toasting the almonds is a small step that yields a huge return in flavor. It deepens their nutty taste and makes them extra crunchy, providing a wonderful textural contrast to the soft, creamy pudding. It only takes a few minutes in the oven, but it makes a world of difference. You can apply this tip to almost any baking recipe that calls for nuts!

Variations to Spark Your Creativity:

Gluten-Free Cherry Almond Bread Pudding: To make this gluten free, simply substitute your favorite gluten free bread. Look for a sturdy loaf that will hold its shape well when soaked in the custard. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten free, making this an easy and delicious adaptation.
Vegan Cherry Almond Bread Pudding: For a vegan version, use a plant based bread like a vegan brioche or a sturdy sourdough. Swap the milk and cream for a full fat canned coconut milk or a blend of almond and cashew milk. For the eggs, use a commercial egg replacer, or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Use coconut oil or a vegan butter for greasing the dish.
Add a Boozy Kick: For an adult twist, soak the cherries in a ¼ cup of amaretto, brandy, or a dark rum for about 30 minutes before adding them to the bread. The alcohol will cook off during baking, but it will leave behind a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the cherry and almond perfectly. It transforms this into a truly elegant Cherry Almond Dessert Recipe. A great example of a classic boozy pudding can be found in this Rum Raisin Bread Pudding.

Serving Suggestions

This Warm Cherry Almond Bread Pudding is a star all on its own, but serving it with a little something extra can elevate it to a truly memorable dessert experience. In our house, how we top it is a matter of serious family debate! Here are a few of our favorite ways to serve it:

With a Creamy Sauce: A warm bread pudding practically begs for a sauce. A simple Cherry Almond Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is classic and divine. You can also drizzle it with a simple cream cheese glaze, a rich caramel sauce, or even a decadent chocolate sauce. If you want a truly sensational pairing, try the sauce from this Best Bread Pudding with Creamy Vanilla Sauce.
A La Mode: There is nothing better than the contrast of warm and cold. Serving a generous scoop of Cherry Almond Bread Pudding with Ice Cream is my husband Ethan’s favorite. A high quality vanilla bean ice cream is a perfect match, but a pistachio or even a cinnamon ice cream would be incredible.
A Dollop of Cream: For a simpler, yet equally delicious topping, a spoonful of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a dollop of crème fraîche adds a lovely, tangy richness. It’s light, airy, and lets the flavors of the pudding shine.
With Fresh Fruit: While the pudding is full of cherries, serving it with a handful of fresh cherries or berries on the side adds a bright, fresh element that cuts through the richness of the custard.

Storage & Reheating

This pudding is one of those wonderful desserts that’s almost as good the next day (and some might even say it’s better!).

To Store: Let the bread pudding cool completely. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Reheat: You can enjoy the leftovers cold, straight from the fridge (it’s delicious!), but I prefer to warm it up. To reheat, you can place an individual portion in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds until warmed through. For the best texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the pudding in an oven safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until hot. The foil prevents it from drying out.

FAQ about Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

Here are answers to a few questions I often get about this recipe. I hope they are helpful!

Can I use different kinds of fruit in this recipe?: Absolutely! This is a very versatile bread pudding recipe. You could substitute the cherries with raspberries, blueberries, diced peaches, or even apples. Just be mindful of the moisture content; very juicy fruits might require a slightly longer baking time. A Blueberry Lemon Bread Pudding is another one of our family favorites!
My bread pudding turned out soggy. What did I do wrong?: A soggy bread pudding is usually caused by one of two things: using bread that was too fresh or not having the right bread to liquid ratio. Fresh bread has too much moisture and won’t absorb the custard properly. Always use day old, stale bread. If you suspect your bread is too fresh, toast the cubes in the oven first. Also, make sure you are measuring your liquid ingredients accurately. For a time tested, non soggy recipe, check out this Old Fashioned Bread Pudding guide from The Kitchn.
Can I make this Cherry Almond Bread Pudding ahead of time?: Yes, this is a fantastic make ahead dessert. You can assemble the entire dish (without baking), cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. You might need to add 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time since it’s starting from cold.
Is this a healthy dessert option?: While this is an indulgent dessert, you can make a few tweaks to create a more Healthy Cherry Almond Bread Pudding. You can use whole wheat bread, replace the heavy cream with all milk (or a lower fat milk), and reduce the sugar slightly. While there are versions for a Low Calorie Cherry Almond Bread Pudding, I believe in enjoying this dish as a comforting treat in its traditional, soul warming form.

Final Thoughts on Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

There is a quiet magic in taking simple, everyday ingredients and transforming them into something that nourishes both body and soul. This delicious Cherry Almond Bread Pudding is more than just a recipe to me; it’s a story baked in a dish. It’s the story of chilly Oregon evenings, of using what you have, and of finding comfort in the simple act of creating. It’s the proof in the pudding, so to speak, that a good story, like a good soup, needs time to simmer. Both are made with patience, honesty, and a touch of salt.

I hope this recipe brings as much warmth and joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. I hope you’ll make it your own, adding your own chapter to its story. Ethan and I would love to see your creations and hear how it turned out for you.

If you loved this recipe, please consider leaving a comment and a rating below. It means the world to us and helps other readers find our stories. And don’t forget to save this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so you can always find your way back to this comforting hug in a bowl. Thank you for welcoming me into your kitchen. Happy baking.