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Southern Peach Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 34 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (10-12 slices)
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.