Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and almond extract.
In a small bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add to the mixing bowl alternately with the sour cream. Do not overmix. Stir in the cherries and optional almonds.
Pour into a greased and floured bread pan. Bake at 375 degrees for about 1 hour, until bread is golden brown and passes the toothpick test.