Are you in the mood for a delicious and moist quick bread that celebrates peach season? Have you ever tried Southern Peach Bread? This delightful recipe combines fresh peaches with warm spices to create a sweet and tender loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious treat!
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh peaches (peeled and diced; or use canned peaches, drained)
Timing
Preparation for this Southern Peach Bread takes approximately 15 minutes, and the baking time is about 50-60 minutes. In just over an hour, you’ll have a beautifully baked loaf to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the diced peaches until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. If desired, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or sugar on top for added flavor and a nice finish.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve your delightful Southern Peach Bread!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one slice (based on 10 servings) of Southern Peach Bread:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
This sweet bread is not only delicious but also provides a delightful combination of nutrients that makes for a perfect snack or breakfast option!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’d like to make this dish even healthier, consider these options:
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
- Reduce the sugar by using a sugar substitute or ripe bananas as a natural sweetener.
- Add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and protein.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Peach Bread pairs wonderfully with:
- Butter for spreading on warm slices.
- Honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
- Coffee or tea to complement the flavors perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Using unripe peaches: Choose ripe, sweet peaches for the best flavor in your bread.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow the bread to cool before slicing to maintain moisture and ease of cutting.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftovers, here are some tips for storing your bread:
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, microwave individual slices or warm in the oven.
Conclusion
Southern Peach Bread is a fantastic way to enjoy the delightful flavors of peaches in a wholesome and comforting loaf. Easy to make and incredibly tasty, this recipe will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Try it out and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes, frozen peaches work well! Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for the regular flour.
How can I make this bread nut-free?
Simply omit any nuts and ensure that your other ingredients are nut-free.
What’s the best way to tell if the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a delicious twist.