This Easy Southern Peach Bread is a delightful way to enjoy fresh peaches. It’s sweet, moist, and has a lovely golden crust that makes it perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack!
Whenever I bake this, the warm smell of peaches fills my kitchen, and it always makes my family’s day better. It’s so easy to make, even I can whip it up before my morning coffee! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your bread. For a healthier option, try whole wheat flour. Just remember that it might change the texture a bit.
Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches add sweetness and moisture. If they’re not in season, you can use frozen peaches, but be sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding them.
Buttermilk: This adds richness to the bread. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a bit of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to sour.
Butter: I always use unsalted butter for baking to control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Bread Doesn’t End Up Dry?
The key to keeping the bread moist is to watch the baking time closely. Here’s how to do it:
- Start checking at the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done.
- Avoid over-mixing the batter. Mix just until the flour disappears to keep the bread tender.
- Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes to help retain moisture before transferring it to a wire rack.
Following these tips helps ensure your Southern Peach Bread comes out moist and fluffy every time!
Easy Southern Peach Bread with Fresh Peaches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt as substitute)
Fruits & Nuts:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bread takes about 15 minutes to prep and 50-60 minutes to bake. After that, let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes, before transferring it to a wire rack. So, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab your 9×5 inch loaf pan and grease it with butter or cooking spray, then lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This little mixture will be the backbone of your bread, so give it a good whisk and set it aside for now.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Cream them together using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step really helps to incorporate air and give your bread a nice rise!
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
Now, beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each one is well incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix just until combined. Your mixture should be looking creamy and smooth now.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Next, it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined—don’t overdo it!
6. Fold in the Peaches and Nuts:
Gently fold in the chopped fresh peaches and nuts if you decided to use them. This fragile mixture ensures your peaches are evenly distributed without breaking apart too much.
7. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top so it’s even. This way, your bread will bake nicely without any crazy peaks or valleys.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it! Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
9. Cool Down:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent sogginess at the bottom.
10. Slice and Enjoy:
Once cooled, slice up your Easy Southern Peach Bread. Serve it plain or with a lovely pat of butter. Enjoy every bite of your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy Southern Peach Bread
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the batter. This will prevent your bread from becoming too wet.
How Should I Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover peach bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Nuts?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples. You can also substitute or add different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a twist.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of regular milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly, and you’re good to go!
