A delightful twist on a classic Parisian pastry, this Cherry Almond Bostock Loaf features a tender almond-flavored loaf topped with rich cherry jam and sliced almonds, baked to golden perfection. It’s a simple yet elegant treat ideal for breakfast, tea time, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic French flavor made easy – Inspired by the traditional Bostock, this loaf version is easier to prepare and just as indulgent.
Beautiful flavor pairing – Almond and cherry are a timeless duo, balanced here by a delicate, buttery crumb.
Elegant but effortless – Requires basic pantry ingredients and minimal prep, yet yields bakery-level results.
Perfect anytime – Serve it for brunch, as an afternoon snack, or paired with your morning coffee.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Almond Loaf

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ tsp almond extract
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ cup whole milk

For the Topping

½ cup cherry jam or preserves
¼ cup sliced almonds
Powdered sugar for dusting

directions

Preheat & Prepare Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
Mix the Batter
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Combine Ingredients
Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in almond and vanilla extracts. Add dry ingredients in two batches, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth.
Bake the Loaf
Pour batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes, then remove from pan.
Add Cherry & Almond Topping
While loaf is slightly warm, spread cherry jam evenly on top. Sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Finish & Serve
Once fully cool, dust with powdered sugar. Slice thickly and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 slices
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy and elegant

Variations

Different jam flavors – Swap cherry for raspberry, apricot, or fig preserves.
Nut variation – Use hazelnut extract or pistachio topping for a twist.
Gluten-free option – Substitute flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Mini loaves – Divide batter among smaller pans for individual servings.
Add frangipane – For a more authentic Bostock experience, add a layer of almond cream under the jam.

storage/reheating

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well chilled for 4–5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Freeze the loaf (whole or sliced) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm slightly in the oven before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Not directly—almond flour behaves differently. For best results, use all-purpose or a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

2. Can I make this loaf in advance?

Yes, it stores well and is even better the next day once flavors meld.

3. What’s the best way to apply the jam?

Use a spatula to spread jam gently over the warm loaf for even coverage.

4. Do I need to toast the almonds first?

It’s optional—baking the loaf with almonds on top will toast them naturally.

5. Can I use store-bought cherry preserves?

Yes, any quality cherry jam or preserve will work well.

6. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze up to 2 months.

7. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives for a dairy-free version.

8. Does this recipe work as muffins?

Yes—divide into muffin tins and reduce baking time to about 20–25 minutes.

9. Can I skip the powdered sugar?

Yes—it’s just for presentation. The loaf is sweet enough without it.

10. How do I know when it’s done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Conclusion

The Cherry Almond Bostock Loaf transforms a traditional French pastry into a simple, elegant loaf that’s rich with flavor and texture. With its moist almond base, vibrant cherry topping, and crisp almond finish, it’s a beautiful bake for any time of day.

Cherry Almond Bostock Loaf – A Parisian Pastry Makeover

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 slices
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Cherry Almond Bostock Loaf is an easy and elegant twist on a Parisian pastry. Featuring a soft, buttery almond loaf topped with sweet cherry jam and crunchy sliced almonds, it’s baked to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar. A perfect breakfast treat or coffee companion!

Instructions

Preheat & Prepare Pan:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Mix the Batter:
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add almond and vanilla extracts.
Combine & Pour:
Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two batches, alternating with milk. Stir until just combined. Pour into loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake the Loaf:
Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Add Cherry & Almond Topping:
While the loaf is still slightly warm, spread cherry jam on top. Sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Finish & Serve:
Once fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

Swap cherry jam for raspberry or apricot for variation.
Almond flour can be added to boost almond flavor.
Keeps well at room temperature for 2–3 days in an airtight container.