Bright, fruity, and a little bit nostalgic, this Cherry Almond Buckle is pure comfort baked into a single, golden cake. Think of that irresistible combination: a tender crumb bursting with juicy cherries, perfumed with a splash of almond extract, and tucked under a buttery crumb topping that gives just the right amount of crunch. Whether you serve it for an afternoon treat, weekend brunch, or sweet finish to a special meal, the Cherry Almond Buckle feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cherry Almond Buckle is how such simple ingredients can come together in a way that tastes utterly magical. Each item plays its own unique part, from adding tangy moisture to giving you those signature almond crunches. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips to make each ingredient shine:
- All-purpose flour: The structural backbone that holds your buckle together—don’t be tempted to substitute with cake flour, or you’ll miss that classic texture.
- Baking powder & baking soda: This duo gives the right lift, keeping your buckle fluffy but never dry.
- Salt: Just a pinch sharpens and marries all the flavors.
- Unsalted butter (softened and cubed): Provides richness in both the cake and topping—using unsalted lets you control the overall saltiness.
- Granulated sugar: Gives the perfect amount of sweetness and helps the crust form that gorgeous golden finish.
- Large eggs: Essential for structure and keeping your buckle delightfully tender.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the fruitiness beautifully.
- Almond extract: The magic touch that transforms cherries from simple to showstopping.
- Sour cream: The secret to ultimate moistness—it also lends a subtle tang that keeps the cake balanced.
- Fresh or frozen pitted cherries: Halved cherries provide juicy bursts—and yes, you can use frozen; just don’t thaw them!
- Sliced almonds: Layered on top for that unbeatable crunch and classic almond aroma.
- For the topping (flour, sugar, butter): This simple crumb comes together quickly and bakes into craggy, sugary perfection.
How to Make Cherry Almond Buckle
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grab an 8-inch round cake or springform pan. Grease it well and line the bottom with parchment paper—it makes for such a stress-free release later. If you’re using frozen cherries, remember not to thaw them so your batter doesn’t turn soupy. Measure out your ingredients ahead so the magic unfolds without a hitch.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking not only helps break up any lumps but evenly distributes your leavening agents for the best, most even rise—no surprises later!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In your largest mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy—aim for about three minutes. This step is all about adding air and making sure your Cherry Almond Buckle bakes up light; patience pays off.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. Then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. The almond will sing alongside the cherries, while the vanilla provides classic comfort notes in the background. Your kitchen will already smell divine!
Step 5: Mix in the Sour Cream
Gently mix in the sour cream until your batter is totally smooth and creamy. Don’t worry if it seems a bit thick—this is where that irresistible, moist crumb comes from.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add your whisked dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so stop as soon as you see the flour disappear. You want those pockets of air and moisture to remain for the perfect Cherry Almond Buckle texture.
Step 7: Fold in Cherries
Scatter in your halved cherries and gently fold them into the batter with a spatula. This way, each slice is studded with juicy fruit and you won’t break up the berries too much. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan.
Step 8: Add Almonds and Crumb Topping
Sprinkle the sliced almonds generously over the top of the batter, making sure every bite will get a bit of crunch. For the topping, mix flour and sugar in a small bowl, then cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork. When it looks like coarse crumbs, scatter it lovingly over everything—this is what creates those delightful golden pockets.
Step 9: Bake and Cool
Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick poked right in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden, the edges just pulling away. Allow your Cherry Almond Buckle to cool for a bit in the pan before you remove it. Serve warm for ambrosial delight, or let it reach room temperature if you can wait!
How to Serve Cherry Almond Buckle
Garnishes
Dust the top with powdered sugar for a visual pop or finish with a cloud of lightly whipped cream. A sprinkle of extra sliced almonds right before serving gives it that irresistible bakery-style look, and a few extra cherries scattered on the plate make it extra inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cherry Almond Buckle with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re aiming for dessert, or a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a brunch that feels a little indulgent but still oh-so-right. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or black tea alongside makes for a blissful combination.
Creative Ways to Present
You can bake and serve the Cherry Almond Buckle in mini ramekins for individual portions that feel extra special, or cut the cake into dainty squares and arrange them on a platter for a buffet or potluck. For a dramatic touch, top each slice with a cherry compote or serve with a pitcher of warm custard on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Cherry Almond Buckle snugly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. It’s just as lovely for breakfast the next day; the flavors mellow and the crumb stays tender.
Freezing
To freeze, let the cake cool completely, then wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and tuck them into a zip-top freezer bag. The Cherry Almond Buckle will keep its fresh flavor for up to three months—simply thaw at room temperature when a craving strikes.
Reheating
Warm individual slices briefly in the microwave (about 15-20 seconds), or reheat in a low oven until just heated through. This perks the texture back up and gives you that wonderful just-baked aroma all over again.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Absolutely! While cherries are classic, this recipe welcomes blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or even peaches. Each will bring its own spin, but the Cherry Almond Buckle truly shines with the tart juiciness of cherries and the almond pairing.
Do I need a springform pan?
A springform pan makes for easy release and a pretty presentation, but a regular 8-inch round cake pan works beautifully too. Be sure to line the bottom with parchment for easy removal.
Can I use almond flour or gluten-free flour?
You can substitute a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose blend if needed. Almond flour, however, will change the texture quite a bit and is best used for up to a quarter of the total flour for added richness, not as a total swap.
What’s the difference between a buckle and a coffee cake?
A buckle features cake batter with fruit folded in, often finished with a crumble or streusel topping that “buckles” as it bakes. Coffee cake is broader, and doesn’t always have fruit. The Cherry Almond Buckle sits somewhere in between but always celebrates fruit in each bite!
How can I make it dairy-free?
Swap the butter for a high-quality vegan baking stick, use a plant-based yogurt in place of sour cream, and reach for your favorite dairy-free milk if needed for moisture. The crumb may vary, but the Cherry Almond Buckle will still taste deliciously comforting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re hunting for a bake that’s easy yet show-stopping, Cherry Almond Buckle is an absolute must-try. Gather up those gorgeous cherries and a handful of pantry basics, and treat yourself (and anyone lucky enough to share with you) to a slice of classic, cozy happiness. Enjoy, and don’t forget to savor every single bite!
Print
Cherry Almond Buckle Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet cherries and nutty almonds with this easy-to-make Cherry Almond Buckle. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this moist and flavorful buckle is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Mix in sour cream, then add dry ingredients and stir until combined.
- Add Cherries: Gently fold in cherries and spread the batter in the pan. Top with sliced almonds.
- Make Topping: Combine flour and sugar, then cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- If using frozen cherries, do not thaw to prevent excess moisture.
- Enjoy the buckle on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
