Introduction
There’s something about fresh peaches that’s undeniably comforting—whether it’s the bright, sweet flavor or the soft, juicy texture. When peaches are in season, they make for the perfect ingredient in everything from pies to jams, and of course, this Peach Bread! The delicate peach flavor comes through beautifully in this moist, tender bread, making it a perfect choice for warm summer mornings or a light dessert to share with family.
My love for peach bread goes way back. I remember baking this recipe with my grandmother, whose garden overflowed with peaches each summer. She taught me the secret to the perfect peach bread: use just the right amount of fresh, ripe peaches, and don’t skimp on the cinnamon. These days, this peach bread is a favorite in my kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Peach Bread
- For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 medium ripe peaches, peeled and chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- ¼ cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- For the Glaze (Optional):
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step will ensure that your bread comes out of the pan smoothly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients. The cinnamon will add that warm, comforting spice that perfectly complements the sweetness of the peaches.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes light and fluffy. This step helps create a soft and tender texture for the bread.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. The eggs help bind everything together, while the vanilla adds an aromatic depth to the bread.
5. Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Add the sour cream (or yogurt) and buttermilk to the mixture and stir until fully combined. These ingredients add moisture to the bread, ensuring it remains soft and delicious.
6. Fold in the Peaches
Gently fold in the chopped peaches. Be careful not to overmix so that the peaches stay intact, giving your bread little pockets of sweetness throughout.
7. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread dense. You want the batter to be thick but smooth.
8. Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so be sure to check the bread a few minutes before the recommended time.
9. Cool the Bread
Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing the bread to cool properly helps it firm up and makes it easier to slice.
10. Make the Glaze (Optional)
While the bread cools, you can prepare the glaze if you’d like to add a touch of sweetness and shine to the top. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled bread for a beautiful finish.
Baking Tips for Perfect Peach Bread
- Use Ripe Peaches: Make sure your peaches are ripe and fragrant for the best flavor. The softer, juicier peaches will infuse the bread with natural sweetness.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: To ensure your bread stays light and fluffy, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined.
- Check the Bread Early: Every oven is different, so start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
- Freeze the Bread: Peach bread freezes wonderfully! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with Fresh Cream: Serve a slice of peach bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Pair with a Cup of Tea or Coffee: This bread is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack when paired with your favorite hot beverage.
- Add Nuts: For a bit of crunch, fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans with the peaches.
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh ones? While fresh peaches are preferred for their juicy texture, you can use canned peaches. Be sure to drain and pat them dry before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this bread ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the peach bread a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh.
Can I substitute the buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk or make your own buttermilk by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to ¼ cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Conclusion
This Peach Bread is the perfect way to enjoy the sweetness of fresh peaches in a new form. The tender, cinnamon-spiced loaf is a breeze to bake, and the optional glaze adds a sweet, finishing touch. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, serving it as a dessert, or giving it as a gift, this peach bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.