Southern Peach Bread

In the world of quick breads, there’s so much more to explore beyond the classic banana loaf. Enter Southern Peach Bread—a deliciously simple and quick-to-make treat bursting with juicy fresh peaches. Infused with warm spices and just the right amount of sweetness, this bread is a delightful addition to any baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern Peach Bread is a wonderful blend of flavors, with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg perfectly complementing the sweet, juicy peaches. It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require any fancy techniques, making it a perfect choice for both novice and seasoned bakers. The result is a moist, flavorful bread that feels like a cozy hug in every bite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Wire rack
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• Butter, softened, for greasing pan
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of allspice
• Pinch of ground cloves
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups peaches, peeled and chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter, dust with 1 tablespoon of sugar, and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, and milk together. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until combined, being careful not to over-mix.
4. Gently fold in the chopped peaches, then transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
6. Allow the bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before removing it from the pan. Let it cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your peaches are ripe and juicy. This will add moisture and sweetness to the bread. Also, be cautious not to over-mix the batter, as this can make the bread dense.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to add a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for extra texture. You can also try adding a few teaspoons of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This bread is a sweet treat, but it also offers some nutritional benefits from the fresh peaches, which are a good source of vitamins A and C.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use canned peaches? Yes, you can use canned peaches if fresh ones are not available. Be sure to drain them well before chopping.

How should I store the bread? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze this bread? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Southern Peach Bread is a delightful and easy recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. With its warm spices and fresh peaches, each slice is a comforting treat. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you. We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you come up with!