Southern Peach Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer, then Southern Peach Bread is just what you need! This quick bread is not only moist and flavorful but also filled with juicy peaches and warm spices that make every bite a joy. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic addition to family gatherings or brunches, where everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll find yourself making this Southern Peach Bread again and again. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with a little butter, it’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious bread in the oven.
• Family-friendly: The sweet flavor of peaches and hint of cinnamon make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead option: Bake it in advance and enjoy it for breakfast or snacks throughout the week.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it warm, cold, or toasted; it’s wonderful any way you slice it!
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of fresh peaches and warm spices creates a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Southern Peach Bread, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything we need before diving into the baking fun!

• Fresh Peaches – ripe and juicy for natural sweetness
• All-Purpose Flour – provides structure and a soft crumb
• Granulated Sugar – sweetens the bread
• Brown Sugar – adds depth and a hint of caramel
• Baking Powder – helps the bread rise
• Baking Soda – works with the acid to leaven the bread
• Cinnamon – adds a warm, comforting flavor
• Vanilla Extract – enhances the sweetness
• Eggs – bind the ingredients and add moisture
• Milk – keeps the crumb tender
• Vegetable Oil – ensures the bread stays moist
• Salt – balances the sweetness

Variations

One of the best things about Southern Peach Bread is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Mix in other fruits: Substitute half of the peaches with blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Incorporate spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for added warmth.
• Try whole wheat flour: For a healthier option, swap out half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

How to Make Southern Peach Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your bread bakes evenly from start to finish. While that heats up, go ahead and grease your loaf pan so it’s ready for your batter.

Step 2: Prepare Your Peaches

Dice those fresh peaches into small pieces and set them aside. The juiciness of ripe peaches will add amazing flavor throughout your bread.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients together first helps distribute everything evenly throughout your batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture not only binds everything together but also adds moisture that keeps your bread soft.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually mix your wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can make your bread tough.

Step 6: Fold in Peaches

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in those diced peaches. This step ensures each slice has lovely chunks of peach nestled within.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Loaf Pan

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth out the top gently with a spatula if needed—this will help create an even surface as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop that loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, you’re good to go!

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Let your Southern Peach Bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allowing it to cool completely enhances its flavor and texture before slicing into those delicious pieces!

Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious Southern Peach Bread!

Pro Tips for Making Southern Peach Bread

Baking is a delightful adventure, and with a few handy tips, your Southern Peach Bread can be even more scrumptious!

• Choose ripe peaches: The riper the peaches, the sweeter and juicier your bread will be. Look for peaches that yield slightly to pressure and have a fragrant aroma.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing the ingredients just until combined helps maintain a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
• Use a toothpick test: To ensure your bread is perfectly baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing your bread to cool completely helps it set and makes for cleaner slices. Plus, it enhances the flavors as it rests.
• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is delightful, consider adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and flavor that complements the peaches beautifully.

How to Serve Southern Peach Bread

Serving Southern Peach Bread can be as creative as you want! Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or dessert, here are some wonderful ideas to elevate your experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.
• Fresh peach slices: Top each slice with fresh peach slices for an inviting presentation and added peachy goodness.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: A creamy yogurt parfait with granola and fresh berries complements the sweetness of the bread while adding protein.
• Green salad: A light, refreshing green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread and adds freshness to your meal.
• Fruit salad: A simple fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits brightens up any plate and pairs beautifully with the warm flavors of peach bread.
• Herbal tea: Serve alongside a steaming cup of herbal tea like chamomile or mint for a cozy beverage pairing that enhances your snack time.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re well on your way to creating memorable moments around your delicious Southern Peach Bread! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Southern Peach Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and keep your peach bread fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; be sure to label with the date.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on high for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• To reheat a whole loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed throughout.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Southern Peach Bread!

Can I use frozen peaches in Southern Peach Bread?

Absolutely! Frozen peaches work well; just make sure to thaw and drain them first. This ensures your batter doesn’t become too watery.

What makes this Southern Peach Bread so moist?

The combination of eggs, milk, and vegetable oil keeps the crumb tender and moist. Plus, using ripe peaches adds natural juiciness!

How can I make Southern Peach Bread gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for proper structure.

Can I add nuts to my Southern Peach Bread?

Yes! Feel free to fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. Just adjust the amount of peaches slightly if you prefer a different balance.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Southern Peach Bread as much as I do! It’s a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether it’s enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted for breakfast, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!