Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf

When it comes to baking, quick breads are undoubtedly among the tastiest and easiest treats to whip up. Whether served as a delightful breakfast option or a satisfying dessert, you really can’t go wrong. Some of our absolute favorite loaves have included cream cheese in the batter, creating an irresistibly moist and rich texture. A Peach & Cream Cheese Loaf was something we hadn’t tried yet, and we knew it was time to change that.

Peach season is often fleeting, so we opted for canned peaches to make this loaf accessible all year round! However, if you have fresh peaches on hand, we highly recommend using them. Simply dice the peaches into small pieces to ensure even baking and a juicy burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe makes one large loaf, so it’s important to ensure it cooks thoroughly in the center.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Peach & Cream Cheese Loaf combines simplicity with indulgence. The cream cheese in the batter guarantees a moist and rich texture, while the peaches offer a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the creamy base perfectly. Perfect for any occasion, this loaf is sure to delight family and friends alike.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Standard bread loaf pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• Oven

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese (1 package), softened
• ½ cup butter, 1 stick
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• ½ tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 eggs
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 cup milk
• 15 oz can sliced peaches, drained and diced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and grease a standard bread loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the cream cheese and butter. Add the sugar, eggs, and lemon zest, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. In a small bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk to the wet ingredients, folding in the peaches.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Allow the loaf to cool before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

Ensure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing. Dice the peaches small for an even distribution of flavor, and keep an eye on the baking time to prevent overcooking.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a twist, try adding a handful of chopped nuts for extra crunch or a sprinkle of brown sugar on top for a sweet crust. If you’re using fresh peaches, make sure they are ripe for the best flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of this loaf is packed with creamy goodness and fruity sweetness, making it a delightful treat to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Fresh peaches will work wonderfully, just ensure they are ripe and diced small.

Q: How should I store the loaf?
A: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Q: Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Peach & Cream Cheese Loaf as much as we do! It’s a perfect blend of creamy and fruity flavors that will leave you wanting more. Give it a try and share your baking experience with us. Happy baking!