Peach Bread
Peach bread is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with a soft, cozy loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. This recipe captures the essence of summer, using fresh peaches to create a fragrant, moist bread that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re enjoying a slice warm from the oven or toasting it with a pat of butter, this peach bread is sure to win your heart.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 220
- Protein: 3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 36 grams
- Fat: 9 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 12 grams
- Sodium: 180 mg
Why Make This Peach Bread
This peach bread isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. The natural sweetness of the peaches means you can enjoy it without feeling guilty. It’s a perfect choice for brunch gatherings, picnics, or as a simple yet thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. Plus, the combination of textures—the soft, tender bread with the juicy bites of peach—makes every slice a delight. It’s an ideal way to celebrate fresh fruit and embrace the flavors of the season.
How to Make Peach Bread
Step 1: Preparation
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan to ensure your peach bread doesn’t stick once baked. This step is important for a smooth release and perfect presentation!
Step 2: Mixing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). This mix lays the foundation for your bread. In a larger bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. The blending process incorporates air, making your bread soft and tender.
Step 3: Cooking
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually mix the dry flour blend into the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Gently fold in the diced peaches, taking care not to break them apart too much. The colorful peaches will add bursts of sweetness throughout your bread. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
Step 4: Finishing
Once baked, let the peach bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set and makes it easier to transfer. Afterward, gently take it out of the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is vital; it helps to firm up the bread, making it easier to slice.
How to Serve Peach Bread
Peach bread is delicious on its own, but you can enhance your experience by serving it with a bit of butter or cream cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast, or enjoy it as a delightful dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also toast it lightly to elevate its flavors and texture.
How to Store Peach Bread
To store peach bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to slice it first for easy thawing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave to warm it up.
Expert Tips for Perfect Peach Bread
- Choose ripe peaches: The best flavor comes from ripe, juicy peaches. If the peaches are too firm, let them sit at room temperature for a day or two.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to avoid a dense texture.
- Experiment with spices: Besides cinnamon, you could add a pinch of nutmeg or even ginger to add depth to the flavor.
- Add nuts: For extra texture, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans along with the peaches.
Delicious Variations
- Peach and Blueberry: Substitute half of the peaches with fresh blueberries for a mixed fruit flavor.
- Peach Cinnamon Swirl: Before baking, swirl in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a marbled look and extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Peaches: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends or family.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Yes, you can! If using canned peaches, make sure to drain them well. For frozen peaches, thaw and drain to remove excess moisture. -
How do I know when the bread is done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, or with just a few crumbs attached, indicating it’s fully baked. -
Can I make miniature loaves or muffins with this recipe?
Absolutely! Adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes for muffins or 30-35 minutes for mini loaves. -
How do I add a glaze to the bread?
Whisk together powdered sugar and a little milk or peach juice to drizzle over the cooled bread for an extra sweet touch. -
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
To make this recipe vegan, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use vegan butter.
Conclusion
Peach bread is a wonderful way to incorporate fresh fruit into your baking while satisfying your sweet tooth. With its moist, fluffy texture and delightful peach flavor, it’s a recipe you’re sure to return to year after year. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just a cozy evening at home, this peach bread will always be a hit. So gather your ingredients and get baking; you’re in for a delicious treat!
Print
Peach Bread
- Total Time: 75
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful bread combining the sweetness of ripe peaches with a soft, cozy loaf, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced fresh peaches
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a larger bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then fold in diced peaches.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Store wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 65
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
