Cherry Almond Wreath: A Festive Holiday Delight

The scent of almonds and cherries baking always transports me back to Christmas Eve at my grandmother’s house. The entire family would gather, carols playing softly in the background, as she’d pull a stunning, golden wreath from the oven. The sweet aroma would fill the air, a promise of holiday cheer and deliciousness to come. It wasn’t just a dessert; it was a symbol of togetherness and love, a tradition I cherish to this day.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Yield: 1 wreath
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• ½ cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
• ¼ cup almonds, chopped
• 2 teaspoons orange zest, divided
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 (11 ounce) cans refrigerated breadstick dough
• ¾ cup powdered sugar

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Small bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated for even baking.

2. In a small bowl, combine the chopped cherries, chopped almonds, 1 teaspoon of the orange zest, and brown sugar. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well combined. This mixture will form the delicious filling for your wreath.

3. Unroll both cans of refrigerated breadstick dough and place them side by side on a clean surface. Gently press the seams together to form one large, cohesive piece of dough. This creates the base for rolling your wreath. If the dough is too sticky, lightly flour your surface.

4. Evenly spread the cherry-almond mixture over the entire surface of the dough. Ensure the filling is distributed consistently for a uniform flavor in every slice.

5. Starting from one end, roll the dough up tightly in a jelly-roll fashion. Once rolled, carefully press the end of the dough to the roll to form a secure seal. This prevents the filling from escaping during baking.

6. Place the rolled dough, seam-side down, onto a prepared baking sheet. Gently join the ends together to form a large ring or wreath shape.

7. Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, cut 1-inch slices into the top of the dough all the way around the wreath. Be careful not to cut all the way through. These slices allow the wreath to bake evenly and create a visually appealing design.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the wreath is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent over-browning. The internal temperature of the bread should reach around 200°F (93°C).

9. While the wreath is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, stir together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and the remaining 1 teaspoon orange zest. Mix until smooth and lump-free. Adjust the amount of orange juice to achieve your desired glaze consistency.

10. Once the wreath is out of the oven and still warm, drizzle the powdered sugar glaze evenly over the top. The warmth helps the glaze to melt slightly and adhere beautifully.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Toast the Almonds: For a richer, nuttier flavor, lightly toast the chopped almonds in a dry skillet before adding them to the filling. This enhances their aroma and texture.
• Room Temperature Dough: Allow the breadstick dough to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before unrolling. This makes it more pliable and easier to work with.
• Even Baking: To ensure even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time.
• Glaze Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more orange juice, a drop at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If it is too thin, add more powdered sugar, a teaspoon at a time.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the wreath (up to the point of baking) a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Cherry Almond Wreath warm or at room temperature. It makes a stunning centerpiece for a holiday brunch or dessert table. To store leftovers, wrap the wreath tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, wrap a slice or the entire wreath in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual slices for a few seconds. Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the bread.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	200 kcal	10%
Total Fat	8g	10%
Saturated Fat	2g	10%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	300mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	30g	11%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	15g	–
Protein	3g	6%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: While using refrigerated breadstick dough makes this recipe quick and easy, you could adapt it with a homemade or store-bought gluten-free pizza dough for a gluten-free version.
• Different Fruit: Substitute the maraschino cherries with other chopped dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or raisins.
• Nuts: Use different types of nuts like pecans, walnuts, or pistachios instead of almonds.
• Citrus: Try lemon or lime zest instead of orange zest for a different citrusy flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry-almond filling for a warm, festive touch.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but make sure they are pitted and chopped. You may also need to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling, as fresh cherries are less sweet than maraschino cherries.

Q: Can I freeze the Cherry Almond Wreath?
A: While technically possible, freezing is not highly recommended as it can alter the texture of the bread and glaze. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of baking.

Q: The breadstick dough is sticky. What should I do?
A: Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent the dough from sticking. You can also use a silicone mat.

Q: Can I make this recipe without the orange zest and juice?
A: Yes, you can omit the orange zest and juice, but they add a lovely citrusy flavor that complements the cherries and almonds. If omitting, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the glaze instead.

Q: How can I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
A: Make sure to seal the edge of the rolled dough tightly before forming the wreath. Also, ensure the cuts on top are not too deep, as this can cause the filling to spill out.

Final Thoughts

I encourage you to try this Cherry Almond Wreath and create your own cherished memories. It’s a simple yet elegant treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own. Share your creations and experiences, and let’s spread the joy of baking together. Serve it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the perfect holiday indulgence!