Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine flour, 1 cup almonds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, stir together 1 cup sugar and butter. Add eggs and stir to combine well. Stir in buttermilk and almond extract. Add flour mixture, stirring just until moistened. Gently stir in cherries. Spoon into a greased 9 x 5 inch loaf pan. Sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons almonds and 1 teaspoon sugar. Press lightly into dough.
Bake on middle rack in preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center of loaf comes out clean. Cool loaf on a rack for 10 minutes, loosen edges with a knife and turn out onto rack to cool completely. |
