Pistachio Cherry Bread is a celebration loaf that works year-round but truly shines during holidays. Whether you serve it as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert, this quick bread brings color, flavor, and joy to every slice.

Some recipes instantly feel like celebration, and Pistachio Cherry Bread is one of them. With its jewel-toned cherries, buttery crumb, and subtle nutty richness, this loaf feels tailor-made for holidays, brunch tables, and cozy afternoons with coffee or tea. It’s the kind of bread that looks impressive on the outside but is wonderfully simple to make—no yeast, no complicated steps, just classic comfort with a festive twist.

What makes this bread truly special is the balance of flavors and textures. Sweet cherries burst through each slice, while finely chopped pistachios add a gentle crunch and natural richness. The loaf bakes up soft and tender, filling your kitchen with a bakery-style aroma that signals something special is about to happen.

Why This Bread Is So Loved

No yeast, no waiting
Vibrant festive colors
Perfect balance of sweet and nutty
Slices beautifully for gifting
Freezer-friendly

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
¾ cup chopped maraschino cherries, well drained
½ cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
1 tablespoon flour (for coating cherries)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk sugar and melted butter until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then add vanilla.
Stir in buttermilk until fully combined.
Toss cherries with 1 tablespoon flour to prevent sinking.
Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture.
Fold in cherries and pistachios.
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
Bake 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool 15 minutes, then remove and cool completely before slicing.

Flavor & Texture Notes

This bread is tender and moist with a soft crumb. The cherries provide pops of sweetness, while pistachios bring warmth and depth without overpowering. The loaf slices cleanly, making it ideal for gifting or entertaining.

Serving Ideas

Dust lightly with powdered sugar
Drizzle with vanilla glaze
Serve toasted with butter
Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate

Make It Your Own

Swap cherries for dried cranberries
Add almond extract for extra depth
Use white chocolate chips for a dessert twist
Bake as mini loaves for gifting

Storage & Freezing

Store at room temperature up to 3 days
Refrigerate up to 5 days
Freeze wrapped slices up to 2 months