Indulge in the divine fusion of flavors with the delightful “Cherry Chocolate Bread.” This recipe is a testament to the exquisite combination of rich cocoa, the tang of dried cherries, and the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread. The bread’s dark, velvety exterior conceals a tender crumb that encapsulates the essence of chocolate and cherries. As you embark on the journey of crafting this masterpiece, you’ll discover the art of transforming simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors that tantalize the palate and evoke a sense of indulgence. Join us in unveiling the secrets of baking this scrumptious bread, where each slice is an invitation to savor the harmonious marriage of chocolate and cherries.
Ingredients
- 1¹⁄₃ cups milk
- 1 large egg
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ teaspoon almond extract
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 3¾ cups bread flour
- ½ cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder
- ¹⁄₃ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon gluten
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 2½ teaspoons SAF yeast or 1 tablespoon bread machine yeast
- 1 cup snipped glacéed tart dried cherries
Preparations
- Embark on the journey of crafting the “Cherry Chocolate Bread” by assembling the ingredients, excluding the dried cherries, in your bread machine’s pan. Adhere to the recommended order as specified by the manufacturer.
- Choose the appropriate crust setting, opting for medium, and select either the Basic or Sweet Bread cycle. Once decided, press the Start button to set the magic in motion. Note that this recipe does not accommodate the use of the Delay Timer feature.
- As the bread machine orchestrates its magic, seizing the reins from knead to rise, await the opportune moment between the Knead 1 and Knead 2 stages. At this juncture, introduce the star of the show—the snipped glacéed tart dried cherries. This addition will infuse the bread with bursts of tartness and a delicate sweetness.
- As the symphony of baking reaches its crescendo and the cycle concludes, remove the bread from the pan immediately. Gently place it on a cooling rack, allowing it to gracefully transition from the heat of the oven to the soothing embrace of room temperature.
- Practice patience as you wait for the bread to cool entirely before yielding to the temptation of slicing. Each moment of anticipation will be rewarded with the aroma of freshly baked bread, the sight of cherries nestled within the chocolate-infused crumb, and the promise of a flavor journey that beckons with every bite.
Nutritional Information per Serving
- Calories: 190 (794 kJ)
- Total Fat: 8 g (12%)
- Cholesterol: 50 mg (17%)
- Sodium: 120 mg (5%)
- Total Carbohydrate: 27 g (9%)
The “Cherry Chocolate Bread” is a tantalizing symphony of flavors and textures that elevates the humble loaf to a dessert-like indulgence. This recipe masterfully combines the richness of cocoa with the tart sweetness of glacéed tart dried cherries, resulting in a bread that is as visually appealing as it is delectable.
Every aspect of this recipe is carefully orchestrated to create a harmonious balance of flavors. The choice of Dutch-process cocoa powder adds depth and complexity to the bread’s character, infusing it with a deep, dark chocolate essence that’s nothing short of divine. This cocoa-rich foundation is complemented by the addition of light brown sugar, which lends a subtle sweetness that dances on the palate without overpowering the other flavors.
The presence of vanilla and almond extracts in the dough introduces an aromatic complexity, enhancing the overall sensory experience. These extracts not only deepen the flavor but also provide a captivating aroma that fills the kitchen as the bread bakes.
What sets this bread apart is the introduction of snipped glacéed tart dried cherries. These cherries, with their intense tartness and slight sweetness, create a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate backdrop. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that dances between the decadent chocolate and the playful cherries, inviting the taste buds on a journey of discovery.
As the bread machine performs its choreography, from kneading to rising, the kitchen is enveloped in the aroma of chocolate and cherries. The anticipation builds as the dried cherries are added between Knead 1 and Knead 2, ensuring that their vibrant flavors are woven throughout the bread’s texture.
Upon emerging from the oven, the “Cherry Chocolate Bread” is a sight to behold. Its dark, cocoa-dusted crust conceals a tender crumb that beckons to be sliced. Each slice reveals a mosaic of cherries, their jewel-like hues adding both visual appeal and a burst of flavor.
The beauty of this bread lies not only in its appearance and flavor but also in its versatility. Served warm and toasted, it pairs wonderfully with a smear of butter or a dollop of chocolate-hazelnut spread. Alternatively, a slice of this bread can be transformed into a decadent dessert when accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
In conclusion, the “Cherry Chocolate Bread” is a testament to the artistry of baking. This recipe demonstrates how a carefully curated selection of ingredients can be woven together to create a sensory experience that delights at every level. From the first aroma that fills the kitchen to the last bite that leaves a lingering memory, this bread captures the essence of culinary indulgence.
