Southern Peach Bread Recipe

Welcome to a delightful journey into Southern comfort baking with this Southern Peach Bread recipe. Bursting with the juicy sweetness of fresh peaches and the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, this bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack. Read on to discover how to make this scrumptious bread that embodies the essence of Southern hospitality.

What is Southern Peach Bread?

Southern Peach Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread made with fresh peaches, spices, and a hint of vanilla. It’s a beloved treat in the South, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. The bread is dense yet tender, with chunks of peaches adding bursts of fruity goodness in every bite. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that celebrates the juicy, ripe peaches that are a hallmark of Southern summers.

Ingredients List for Southern Peach Bread

Basic Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced

Optional Ingredients:

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for added crunch)
• 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar (for a crunchy topping)
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (for a nutty flavor)

Substitutions and Variations

• Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture, or use gluten-free flour to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Butter: Replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a tangy twist.
• Peaches: Canned peaches (drained) or frozen peaches (thawed and drained) can be used when fresh peaches are not in season.
• Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans or walnuts, try adding almonds or leaving the nuts out entirely.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Southern Peach Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients:
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
6. Fold in the Peaches:
   • Gently fold in the diced peaches (and nuts if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Transfer to the Pan:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle turbinado sugar over the top for a crunchy finish.
8. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
9. Cool:
   • Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: This can result in a dense, tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated to ensure even baking.
• Using Overripe Peaches: Overripe peaches can add too much moisture, making the bread soggy. Choose firm, ripe peaches for the best results.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan helps it set properly. Rushing this step can cause the bread to fall apart.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Southern Peach Bread

Southern Peach Bread is versatile and can be served in several delightful ways:

• Breakfast or Brunch: Serve warm slices with a pat of butter or a dollop of peach preserves.
• Afternoon Snack: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

Presentation Ideas for Southern Peach Bread

• Rustic Charm: Serve on a wooden board, garnished with fresh peach slices and mint leaves.
• Elegant Touch: Place slices on a beautiful cake stand with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
• Casual Gathering: Arrange slices on a large platter with small bowls of butter, honey, and peach preserves for guests to help themselves.

Southern Peach Bread Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Peaches: Whenever possible, use fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor and texture.
• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Southern Peach Bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a hint of ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned peaches for this recipe? A: Yes, canned peaches can be used. Make sure to drain them well and pat them dry to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.

Q: How do I prevent the bread from becoming too dense? A: Avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.

Q: Can I make this bread gluten-free? A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.

Q: What can I use instead of sour cream? A: Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream, providing a similar texture and tangy flavor.

Q: How should I store Southern Peach Bread? A: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bread.

Conclusion

Southern Peach Bread is a delightful and comforting treat that captures the essence of Southern baking. With its moist texture, sweet peach chunks, and warm spices, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or sharing it with friends and family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and savor the delicious flavors of the South!

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