Apple-Pecan Stuffing with Dried Cherries

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat the oven to 325˚F.

   Step 2

   Cut the bread into 1/2-inch cubes and spread them on two baking sheets. Bake for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the cubes are dry and light brown. Set aside to cool.

   Step 3

   While the bread is baking, peel, quarter, and core the apples and cut them into 1/2-inch pieces.

   Step 4

   In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tablespoons of the butter and sauté the apples until their edges begin to brown, about 4 minutes. Remove the apples to a bowl and set aside to cool.

   Step 5

   Reduce the heat to medium-low and melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter in the skillet. Add the onion, celery, thyme, sage, and marjoram and cook until the onion mixture begins to soften but not brown, about 4 minutes. Remove from the heat.

   Step 6

   Increase the oven temperature to 375˚F. and butter an 8-inch baking dish.

   Step 7

   In a large bowl, use your hands to toss the bread with the onion mixture, apples, cherries, pecans, salt, and pepper. Drizzle half of the apple juice and stock over the bread mixture while gently tossing. Let sit for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the mixture to absorb the liquid. Continue to gently toss the bread mixture, adding enough liquid to make the bread moist but not soggy. (You might not use all of the liquid.)

   Step 8

   Pour the bread mixture into the baking dish and pat it down, pressing any cherries that are on top down into the stuffing. (If you leave the cherries exposed, they will burn.) Sprinkle the stuffing with the cheese and cover with a piece of lightly buttered aluminum foil.

   Step 9

   Bake for 30 minutes and then uncover and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is just beginning to brown. Serve warm.

2. Make Ahead

   Step 10

   The stuffing will keep, covered, for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat it in a covered baking dish at 375°F. for approximately 30 minutes. Uncover for the last 5 minutes for a crispier top.