Almond Cherry Bread

This is a bread recipe from my Mom. This is a special, unique bread that is great to give away as a gift or just to enjoy yourselves. This is a great bread to serve throughout the holidays...don't know why, just that is when we have it! -Kristin

2 c. sugar
1 1/2 c. vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 T. vanilla
3 c. flour
1 1/2 t. baking powder
1 t. salt
12 oz. can evaporated milk
10 oz. can almond paste
1 c. walnuts
10 oz. jar maraschino cherries, chopped
1/4 c. of the cherry juice

• Cream together sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla; set aside.
• Sift together dry ingredients and add to wet.
• Put the almond paste on a plate and mash with fork.
• Slowly stir in milk and paste.
• Fold in rest of ingredients.
• Grease 2 loaf pans and bake 350 for 65-70 minutes.