There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm slice of homemade quick bread. Whether it’s served with morning coffee, packed into an afternoon snack, or enjoyed as a late-night treat, a well-made loaf has a way of bringing a little joy into the day. Cherry Banana Bread does exactly that—and then some.
If you grew up loving traditional banana bread, prepare to fall in love with this playful, vibrant upgrade. The combination of sweet bananas and bright maraschino cherries creates a loaf that’s moist, tender, and visually stunning with ruby-red pops of color throughout. Add in a handful of miniature chocolate chips and a glossy cherry drizzle on top, and you have a bakery-style treat that feels special yet requires no complicated steps.
What makes this recipe irresistible is how it balances nostalgia with fun. Bananas provide structure and moisture, cherries bring sweet acidity and a pop of almond-kissed flavor, and chocolate ties everything together in a dessert-worthy finish. Whether baking for family, gifting to a friend, or simply treating yourself, this Cherry Banana Bread is sure to brighten your kitchen—and your day.
Recipe Overview
Cherry Banana Bread is a tender, moist quick bread made with smashed bananas, Greek yogurt, maraschino cherries, and mini chocolate chips. The cherries add flavor and color, while the banana base keeps the loaf soft and sweet. A simple cherry glaze finishes the bread with a beautiful sheen and an extra boost of fruity flavor.
Ingredients & Instructions
Below is a detailed walkthrough of the recipe, along with tips to help you get the perfect texture and flavor every time.
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) jar maraschino cherries
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup smashed banana (about 2 medium bananas)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour, plus 2 teaspoons for coating cherries
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup miniature chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cherry juice (reserved from jar)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Loaf Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously with nonstick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy lifting.
2. Prep the Cherries
Drain the maraschino cherries, reserving the juice for the glaze.
Cut cherries into quarters, then lay them on paper towels and gently pat dry. Removing moisture keeps the bread from turning pink and helps prevent sogginess.
3. Make the Banana Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and almond extract until creamy and light—this adds air for a softer loaf.
Add the eggs, mashed banana, and Greek yogurt, then beat again until well combined. The yogurt gives the bread moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together:
- 1½ cups flour
- baking soda
- salt
Gently incorporate the dry mixture into the banana batter. Avoid overmixing—stop as soon as the flour disappears to keep the loaf soft.
5. Fold in the Cherries and Chocolate
Toss the chopped cherries with 2 teaspoons flour to prevent sinking.
Then gently fold the cherries and mini chocolate chips into the batter using a spatula. Distribute them evenly without stirring aggressively.
6. Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
Bake for approximately 55–70 minutes, depending on your oven.
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil during the last 15–20 minutes.
7. Cool and Glaze
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a cooling rack or plate. Flip upright and cool completely—this prevents the glaze from melting off.
To make the glaze, whisk together:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cherry juice
Drizzle generously over the cooled loaf for a glossy, fruity finish.
Cooking Tips & Variations
Don’t Skip Drying the Cherries
Residual moisture can bleed color into the batter, causing streaking and affecting texture. Pat them dry thoroughly.
Use Overripe Bananas
Speckled, soft bananas yield the best flavor and moisture. Underripe bananas will make the loaf dense and bland.
Customize the Mix-Ins
- Swap mini chocolate chips for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier finish.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Make It Lighter
Replace half of the butter with applesauce, or use low-fat Greek yogurt without compromising texture.
Add More Cherry Flavor
Stir in ½ teaspoon cherry extract or fold in extra chopped cherries.
Gluten-Free Option
Use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend and add an extra tablespoon of yogurt if the batter seems thick.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Room temperature: Store wrapped or in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well up to 5 days; glaze may firm slightly.
- Freezer: Freeze whole loaves or slices tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Serving Ideas
Cherry Banana Bread is delicious:
- Warm with a pat of butter
- With vanilla ice cream as dessert
- Toasted lightly for breakfast
- Paired with tea or coffee
A slice of this brightly flavored banana bread turns any moment into a sweet treat.
With its bold cherry pops, rich banana base, and chocolate-flecked crumb, Cherry Banana Bread is a joyful, colorful twist on a beloved classic. It’s simple to make, fun to customize, and perfect for sharing—or savoring all on your own. The cherry glaze adds a beautiful finishing touch that elevates the loaf from everyday to irresistible.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or making an ordinary day a little sweeter, this loaf brings charm, color, and incredible flavor to your kitchen. Give it a try, and let each slice brighten your day just a little more.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Yes, but maraschino cherries offer a sweeter flavor and vibrant color. If using fresh cherries, pit and chop them, then pat dry.
2. Do I have to use Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt helps create a moist crumb, but sour cream is an excellent substitute.
3. Can I omit the chocolate chips?
Absolutely. The bread is delicious with or without them.
4. What if my bread sinks in the middle?
This usually means it wasn’t fully baked. Always test the center before removing from the oven.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes—bake two loaves, or divide into mini loaf pans and reduce baking time accordingly.
This Cherry Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf made with maraschino cherries, bananas, Greek yogurt, and chocolate chips, finished with a sweet cherry glaze. Easy, vibrant, and perfect for breakfast or dessert.