Almond Joy Holiday Loaf
Indulge in the delightful flavors of the Almond Joy Holiday Loaf, a luxurious treat that encapsulates the essence of the holiday season. This deliciously rich and moist loaf is a harmonious blend of buttery goodness and nutty almond flavor, accented with a hint of vanilla. Topped with crunchy sliced almonds and a touch of sweetness from a simple glaze, it's not just a perfect addition to your holiday table—it's a splendid gift to share. Whether adorned with festive red or green cherries or enjoyed simply as is, this loaf promises to captivate your taste buds and become a perennial favorite all year round. And just when you think it can't get any better, let it rest overnight; it truly enhances in flavor, making it a must-bake for any occasion.
16
Servings
216
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter or margarine
1 cup (softened)
Granulated sugar
2 cups
Eggs
3 (large)
Sour cream
1/2 cup
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
Almond extract
1/2 teaspoon
All-purpose flour
3 cups
Baking powder
2 1/2 teaspoons
Salt
1 teaspoon
Milk
1 1/4 cups
Sliced almonds
1/2 cup (for topping)
Red or green maraschino cherries
3 (for garnish)
Powdered sugar
1 cup
Water
3 teaspoons
Almond extract (for glaze)
1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two medium loaf pans with butter or cooking spray.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter (or margarine), granulated sugar, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on high speed for 5 minutes until light and fluffy.
3
Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, alternating with the milk. Continue to mix gently until just combined, ensuring not to overmix.
4
Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared loaf pans. Sprinkle sliced almonds generously over the tops of each loaf.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the loaves are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6
Once baking is complete, allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Loosen the edges with a knife and carefully turn the loaves out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7
To prepare the glaze, combine powdered sugar, water, and almond extract in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding an extra ½ teaspoon of water if necessary.
8
Once the loaves are cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and garnish with maraschino cherries for a festive touch.
Nutrition Information
8.25g
Fat
31.5g
Carbs
2.375g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Almond Joy Holiday Loaf?
The Almond Joy Holiday Loaf is a rich and moist buttery bread with nutty almond flavor, topped with sliced almonds and a sweet glaze, often garnished with festive cherries.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 16 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How many loaf pans are needed?
You will need two medium loaf pans for this recipe.
How do I prepare the loaf pans before baking?
Grease the loaf pans with butter or cooking spray before adding the batter.
How long should I beat the butter and sugar mixture?
You should beat the butter, sugar, eggs, sour cream, and extracts on high speed for 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
What extracts are used in the batter?
The batter uses both vanilla extract and almond extract.
How should the dry ingredients be added to the wet ingredients?
Gradually fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt while alternating with the milk, mixing gently until just combined.
Why is it important not to overmix the batter?
Overmixing can affect the texture of the loaf, so you should only mix until the ingredients are just combined.
What goes on top of the loaves before they go into the oven?
Sprinkle sliced almonds generously over the tops of each loaf before baking.
What is the baking time for the Almond Joy Holiday Loaf?
The loaves should bake for 50 to 55 minutes.
How do I check if the loaves are finished baking?
The loaves are done when they are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How long should the loaves cool in the pans?
Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before removing them.
What is the best way to cool the loaves completely?
Turn the loaves out onto a wire rack to cool completely after the initial cooling period in the pan.
What ingredients are in the glaze?
The glaze consists of powdered sugar, water, and almond extract.
How can I adjust the consistency of the glaze?
If the glaze is too thick, you can add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of water to reach the desired consistency.
When should I apply the glaze to the loaf?
Drizzle the glaze over the top once the loaves have cooled completely.
What can be used for a festive garnish?
Red or green maraschino cherries can be used to garnish the loaves for a holiday look.
Does the flavor of the loaf improve over time?
Yes, letting the loaf rest overnight truly enhances the flavor.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 216 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
The fat content is 8.25g per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in each slice?
There are 31.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in a serving?
Each serving contains 2.375g of protein.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either softened butter or margarine.
What type of flour is required?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of all-purpose flour.
How much sour cream is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of sour cream.
What makes this loaf a good gift idea?
Its festive appearance, rich flavor, and ability to stay moist make it a perfect holiday gift.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and a quick bread.
How much almond extract is in the glaze?
The glaze uses 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract.
Can this loaf be enjoyed outside of the holiday season?
Absolutely, it is a perennial favorite that can be enjoyed all year round.