This is a recipe we enjoy serving on Christmas morning or for a special brunch. Since it makes four loaves, it also makes a wonderful treat for gift-giving.
Gather first seven ingredients so that you have everything close at hand on the counter or table.
Make the Dough
In medium saucepan, heat 1 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup warm water, and 1/2 cup butter to 110-115°F.
Place butter mixture in a large mixing bowl. Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 2 large eggs. Mix well. Gradually add 1 tablespoon instant yeast, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 4 cups all-purpose flour, mixing well. Do not knead.
Cover and refrigerate for 6-8 hours.
Prepare the Filling
When you are ready to assemble the loaves, preheat oven to 350℉.
In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz cream cheese, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract until smooth. Set aside.
Assemble the Loaves
Turn cold dough onto lightly floured surface. Divide into four portions. Roll each into a 12" x 8" rectangle.
Spread a fourth of the cream cheese mixture down the center of each rectangle. Spoon a fourth of the 21 oz cherry pie filling over the cream cheese.
Fold edges of the dough over the filling. Next, fold the dough lengthwise into thirds. Pinch side seam and ends to seal.
Carefully roll the loaf over, so it's seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. (You will use two baking sheets, with 2 loaves on each pan.)
With a pair of sharp kitchen shears, make several 1-in diagonal cuts near the center of each loaf.
Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven and cool on wire racks.
Make The Glaze
While the loaves are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/8 cup whole milk, and 1 teaspoon almond extract. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
Drizzle the glaze over warm loaves. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Makes 4 loaves. Each loaf will serve approximately 6 people.
Notes
*Unless otherwise indicated, all butter used on this recipe site is salted.**This recipe was modified on 4/28/25 with new ingredient amounts and directions.