Southern Peach Bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. As the warm sun ripens juicy peaches, this recipe transforms them into a moist, flavorful bread that is perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. Growing up in the South, I remember my grandmother baking this bread during peach season, filling our home with an irresistible aroma that brought the family together. The combination of tender peaches and warm spices creates a comforting texture that is both soft and slightly crumbly, making it a favorite among friends and family alike.

What I love most about Southern Peach Bread is its versatility; it can be enjoyed warm from the oven or toasted with a pat of butter. This dish not only celebrates the bountiful harvest of peaches but also embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or savoring a slice with your morning coffee, Southern Peach Bread is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone who tries it. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home!

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (or frozen, thawed and drained)
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)
1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

Preparing the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, and set it aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This will be our dry mixture.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
Now, we’ll incorporate the dry ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Gently fold in the diced peaches and nuts (if using) with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Cooking Process

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the batter in the loaf pan.
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking; if the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil.
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Assembling and Serving

Once the bread has cooled completely, slice it into thick pieces. I love serving it warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature.
This Southern Peach Bread is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

Tips and Variations

If you can’t find fresh peaches, frozen peaches work just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter.
For a fun twist, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile.
Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed fruit bread. Just keep the total fruit amount to about 2 cups.
If you want to make this bread a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. It will give the bread a nuttier flavor and a denser texture.
For a more decadent treat, consider adding a cream cheese swirl. Just mix together 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 egg, and swirl it into the batter before baking.

Final Thoughts

Making Southern Peach Bread is not just about the delicious end result; it’s about the joy of baking and sharing with loved ones. The aroma of fresh peaches and spices wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for a slice. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

In summary, this Southern Peach Bread is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The sweet, juicy peaches combined with the warm spices create a comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Southern Peach Bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert. You can also experiment with variations by adding nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch, or even incorporating a swirl of cream cheese for a rich, decadent twist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I’d love to hear how your Southern Peach Bread turns out and any creative variations you come up with. So, roll up your sleeves, gather those fresh peaches, and let’s bake something delicious together! Happy baking! Print