Southern Peach Bread

A Taste of the South in Every Slice

Imagine your kitchen filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked peach bread. Southern Peach Bread is more than just a baked good; it’s a slice of comfort, combining juicy peaches, warm spices, and a tender crumb that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether it’s served for breakfast, as a brunch centerpiece, or enjoyed as a sweet snack, this bread brings a touch of Southern charm to your table.

This delightful bread captures the essence of homemade goodness. The juicy peaches create bursts of flavor, while the soft, moist crumb provides a perfect contrast. The subtle hints of cinnamon and brown sugar give it a cozy, familiar taste, making it a favorite for family gatherings or a treat to savor with your morning coffee.

Why You’ll Love Southern Peach Bread

Southern Peach Bread isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors wrapped in a comforting, home-baked loaf. Here’s why it’s a favorite among peach lovers:

• Rich and Moist Texture: The combination of ripe peaches and oil keeps the bread soft and tender.
• Bursting with Peach Flavor: Fresh peaches add a natural sweetness that can’t be beaten.
• Easy to Make: No complicated techniques, just mix and bake.
• Perfect for Any Time of Day: Enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or dessert.
• Versatile and Customizable: Add nuts, swap in different spices, or even drizzle with glaze.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Southern Peach Bread

To make Southern Peach Bread, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together to create a soft, flavorful loaf.

• Fresh Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor and moisture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and texture to the bread.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread without overpowering the peach flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Essential for rising and keeping the bread light.
• Cinnamon: Infuses warmth that pairs beautifully with peaches.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and adds aroma.
• Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients and contributes to a moist texture.
• Milk: Keeps the crumb tender and soft.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures the bread stays moist and soft.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

• Use canned or frozen peaches if fresh ones aren’t available, just make sure to drain well.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for a deeper spiced flavor.
• Swap the vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
• Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Southern Peach Bread

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan generously.
2. Prepare the Peaches: Dice fresh peaches into small, even pieces. If using canned, drain thoroughly.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until evenly combined.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Create the Batter: Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined to avoid overmixing.
6. Add Peaches: Gently fold the diced peaches into the batter.
7. Pour and Bake: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• Slice and serve warm with a pat of butter.
• Enjoy as a breakfast treat with coffee or tea.
• Top with a simple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for a dessert presentation.
• Toast and spread with peach preserves for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Ingredient	Calories	Carbs (g)	Protein (g)	Fat (g)
All-purpose flour	110	23	3	0.3
Granulated sugar	50	13	0	0
Brown sugar	50	12	0	0
Fresh peaches	60	15	1	0
Eggs	70	1	6	5
Milk	42	5	3	1
Vegetable oil	120	0	0	14
Cinnamon	6	2	0	0

Tips for the Best Southern Peach Bread

• Use Ripe Peaches: The juicier the peach, the better the flavor.
• Avoid Overmixing: Stir just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Let It Cool: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its shape.
• Enhance Flavor: Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a hint of nuttiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Southern Peach Bread brings together the simple pleasure of homemade baking with the irresistible flavor of fresh peaches. It’s a treat that feels both nostalgic and modern, offering a comforting sweetness with every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at brunch or just want a cozy homemade snack, this bread is sure to please.

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