This Easy Southern Peach Bread is a sweet treat that brings summer vibes to your kitchen! Made with ripe peaches, it’s moist and bursting with flavor, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
If you’re like me, you’ll love how simple it is to whip up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy the warm, fruity aroma filling your home—it’s like a hug in loaf form! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your bread. If you need a gluten-free option, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, which works well in most recipes.
Fresh Peaches: Ripe, juicy peaches are essential here for that classic Southern flavor. If they aren’t in season, canned peaches (drained and chopped) or frozen peaches can work too, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over the salt content. If you’re dairy-free, feel free to substitute with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Spices: Ground cinnamon makes the bread warm and cozy. You can switch it up with a bit of allspice or cardamom for extra flavor if you want to experiment a bit.
How Do I Ensure My Peach Bread is Moist and Tasty?
To keep your peach bread moist, follow these tips:
- Use ripe peaches for the best flavor. Overripe ones work great, just be sure to chop them finely so they mix well into the batter.
- Avoid overmixing the batter! Gently fold in the flour just until everything is mixed; too much stirring can make it dense.
- Keep an eye on the baking time since oven temperatures can vary. Check for doneness using a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Let the bread cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain moisture.
Enjoy your baking, and don’t forget to share a slice with friends or family! 🍑
Easy Southern Peach Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup peeled, pitted, and finely chopped fresh peaches (about 2 medium peaches)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 50-60 minutes for baking. Allow an additional 10 minutes for the bread to cool in the pan, and then to completely cool on a wire rack. So, total time will be about 1.5 to 2 hours to enjoy this delicious peach bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and grease it with butter or cooking spray, then dust it with flour to keep the bread from sticking.
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Whisk these together until well mixed. This helps ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the bread.
3. Creaming the Butters and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy spatula until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aeration will keep your bread nice and light!
4. Adding Eggs and Vanilla:
Now, beat in the eggs one at a time. Make sure each one is blended well before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
5. Combining Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything is incorporated—don’t overdo it as this can make your bread dense. A few lumps are totally fine!
6. Folding in the Peaches:
Gently fold in the finely chopped peaches, making sure they are evenly spread throughout the batter. This will add delicious fruitiness with every bite!
7. Pouring into the Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. This helps with even baking.
8. Baking Time:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Start checking at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is done!
9. Cooling the Bread:
Once baked, take the loaf out of the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This will help prevent it from getting soggy.
10. Serving Suggestions:
Once fully cooled, slice your peach bread and serve it plain or with a spread of butter or cream cheese for an extra treat. Enjoy this Southern delight for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert!
Happy baking! This peach bread is sure to become a favorite in your home!
FAQ About Easy Southern Peach Bread
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture. Chop them finely and fold them into the batter as you would fresh peaches. This helps maintain the texture of the bread!
How Should I Store Leftover Peach Bread?
Store any leftover peach bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Substitute Whole Wheat Flour for All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option. If you use 100% whole wheat flour, you may need to add a tablespoon or two of extra liquid to the batter, as whole wheat can absorb more moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Peach Bread?
This peach bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with a smear of butter, cream cheese, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It also makes a delicious breakfast alongside coffee or tea!
