In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and milk until smooth. Stir in cherry preserves, almond extract, and half and half.
Strain mixture into a 1-quart jar. If desired, further chop cherry pieces. Store in a separate container. Place both containers in the refrigerator until chilled or overnight.
Pour ice cream base into ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer's instructions. Add cherries about 15 minutes into the freezing process. Makes about 1 quart.