This Easy Southern Peach Bread is a lovely treat packed with juicy peaches and spices. It’s moist, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Every time I make this bread, my kitchen fills with such a sweet smell. It’s hard to resist sneaking a slice before it even cools down! 🍑
I love making this in the morning, and it’s so simple to whip up. Plus, it’s a great way to use those ripe peaches sitting on the counter. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches give the best flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use canned peaches (drained) or frozen peaches (thawed and drained) instead.
Baking Soda: This is essential for helping the bread rise. If you only have baking powder, use 3 teaspoons of baking powder instead, and reduce the salt to 1/4 teaspoon.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Both add moisture and richness. If you need a dairy-free option, try unsweetened applesauce or a non-dairy yogurt.
Pecans: They add a lovely crunch, but if you’re allergic or prefer another nut, walnuts or almonds work great. You can also skip them altogether!
How Do I Ensure My Peach Bread Turns Out Moist and Fluffy?
To make sure your Southern Peach Bread is as moist as possible, follow these important tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients. Cold eggs or butter can affect how well the batter combines.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter; mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This helps it set and makes removing it easier.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is perfect!
How to Make Easy Southern Peach Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh ripe peaches, peeled and diced (about 1 large peach)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Southern Peach Bread will take about 15 minutes of prep time. Baking it in the oven will take around 55-65 minutes. After baking, allow it to cool for 15 minutes in the pan and then completely on a wire rack before slicing. Total time is about 1.5 hours, but the delicious aroma will be well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Pan:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan and grease it well. If you prefer, you can line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. Mixing Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until everything is well combined. This will help distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour.
3. Combining Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Then, add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Bringing It All Together:
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir them together until just combined. Remember, it’s okay if there are a few lumps—overmixing can make your bread tough, and we want it nice and fluffy!
5. Adding Peaches and Pecans:
Carefully fold in the diced peaches and optional chopped pecans, being gentle so you don’t break up the fruit too much.
6. Baking the Bread:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Now, it’s time to bake it! Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cooling Time:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps keep that delicious moisture inside!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your beautifully baked peach bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a perfect snack or breakfast treat!
Enjoy your moist, flavorful Easy Southern Peach Bread! 🍑
FAQ about Easy Southern Peach Bread
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Canned peaches work well, but make sure to drain them thoroughly before adding to the batter. If using frozen peaches, thaw and drain them to remove excess moisture. Fresh peaches will give the best flavor, but these substitutes are convenient options.
How Do I Store Leftover Peach Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. To thaw, let it sit at room temperature before slicing.
Can I Substitute the Eggs for a Vegan Option?
Absolutely! You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute. For one egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. Alternatively, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for one egg.
What Can I Serve with Peach Bread?
This peach bread is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a pat of butter, a dollop of cream cheese spread, or even a scoop of ice cream for a yummy dessert twist!
