Description
Southern Peach Bread is a delightful sweet treat that combines juicy peaches with warm spices and a tender crumb. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, this classic Southern recipe delivers rich flavors and moist texture in every slice. Featuring a cinnamon brown sugar topping and optional pecans for added crunch, this loaf is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 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 1 can of peaches, drained and chopped)
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the bread after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until thoroughly combined to create a well-balanced spice and leavening base.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy, helping to incorporate air for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse flavor throughout the bread.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which could toughen the bread.
- Fold in Peaches and Pecans: Using a spatula, gently fold in the diced peaches and chopped pecans (if using) to distribute them evenly without crushing the fruit.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking and a neat appearance.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter to create a sweet, spiced crust on the bread.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool in Pan: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes to set and make removal easier.
- Remove from Pan and Cool Completely: Run a knife around the edges of the bread to loosen it. Invert the loaf onto a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents sogginess on the bottom.
- Slice and Serve: Once cooled, slice the bread into thick pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature for a tasty Southern treat.
Notes
- Fresh peaches provide the best flavor, but canned peaches work well as a convenient substitute.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans.
- Ensure peaches are well-drained if using canned to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- Baking time may vary depending on your oven; start checking at 55 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Leftover bread can be sliced and toasted for a delicious breakfast option.