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1
Bring cherries, kirsch, and sugar to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring occasionally.
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2
Remove from heat and let stand, covered, 15 minutes.
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3
Stir in almond extract.
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4
Heat cream, chocolate, and a pinch of salt in another small heavy saucepan over low heat, stirring, until chocolate is melted and smooth, about 3 minutes.
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5
Remove from heat and add 1 tablespoon butter, stirring until incorporated, then stir in cooked cherries with any liquid.
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6
Transfer filling to a metal bowl and freeze, stirring occasionally, until firm but not frozen solid, about 2 1/2 hours.
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7
Preheat oven to 350F.
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8
Cut out 12 rounds from bread slices with cookie cutter, then cut 42 (2- by 1 1/2-inch) rectangles from trimmings and remaining slices.
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9
Spread 1 side of each round and rectangle with some of remaining butter.
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10
Put 6 rounds, buttered sides down, in molds and line sides with rectangles (5 to 7 per mold), buttered sides against mold, arranging them vertically and slightly overlapping, pressing gently to adhere.
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11
Trim any overhang flush with rims.
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12
Divide filling among molds and top with 6 remaining bread rounds, buttered sides up, pressing gently to fit inside bread rim.
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13
Bake charlottes in molds on a baking sheet in middle of oven until bread is golden, about 25 minutes.
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14
Cool 5 minutes, then invert plates over charlottes and invert charlottes onto plates.
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15
Serve warm.
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16
Available at Broadway Panhandler (866-266-5927 or 212-966-3434).
