Southern Peach Bread Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting treat that fills your kitchen with the sweet aroma of fresh fruit and warm spices, this Southern Peach Bread Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with juicy peaches and kissed by cinnamon and nutmeg, this bread brings a tender crumb with a delightfully crispy cinnamon-sugar topping. It’s a perfect way to celebrate summer’s bounty or to add a little sunshine to any day, delivering that unmistakable charm of Southern baking in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Southern Peach Bread Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that work harmoniously to create a moist, flavorful loaf. Each component plays a vital role, from the soft butter and sugar that create richness and sweetness, to the fragrant spices that make the flavor truly sing.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the bread its soft and tender texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise to fluffy perfection.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to give a light crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle spice that complements the peaches beautifully.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: For richness and moisture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread just right without overpowering.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness with a comforting note.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Lends a tender crumb and a mild tang.
• 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (or 1 can peaches, drained and chopped): The star ingredient, providing juicy bursts of flavor.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping): Creates a caramelized, crispy crust.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping): Perfectly spices the sugary topping.

How to Make Southern Peach Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your bread doesn’t stick and has a lovely crust.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step is crucial because it distributes the spices and leavening agents evenly, making sure every slice has a balanced flavor and rises beautifully.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Take a large mixing bowl and beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. This should take about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns pale and fluffy, which gives your bread a delicate crumb and a rich taste.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and create a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a comforting sweetness that complements the peaches perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the bread tough, so be gentle and stop when everything is incorporated.

Step 6: Fold in Peaches and Pecans

Using a spatula, gently fold in the diced peaches and chopped pecans if you’re using them. The peaches bring moisture and sweetness, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch that makes the bread even more delightful.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle this evenly over the batter. This topping will create a gorgeous and irresistibly crispy crust.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the loaf pan in the oven and let it bake for 55-65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

Step 9: Cool and Remove from Pan

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling thoroughly prevents sogginess and keeps the bread’s texture just right.

Step 10: Slice and Enjoy

Once cooled, cut into thick slices and serve warm or at room temperature. Get ready for the best Southern Peach Bread Recipe reveal – your friends and family are going to ask for seconds!

How to Serve Southern Peach Bread Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of Southern charm, try serving slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a pat of melting butter. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey elevates it for a charming brunch or a comforting afternoon snack.

Side Dishes

This peach bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it ideal for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s also a gorgeous accompaniment to creamy soups or light salads when you want to add a hint of sweetness to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not transform your Southern Peach Bread into mini sandwiches with cream cheese and fresh berries, or toast slices and top them with ricotta and a drizzle of honey? You can even cube it to use as a sweet addition to bread puddings or a decadent French toast bake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Southern Peach Bread Recipe has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and moist at room temperature for about 2-3 days, perfect for enjoying over a few mornings or afternoon treats.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this bread freezes beautifully. Slice it first, then separate with parchment paper and place in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

To enjoy your Southern Peach Bread Recipe warm, simply toast the slices lightly or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15-20 seconds. This revives the softness and brings out those wonderful peachy and spiced flavors just like fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If fresh peaches are out of season, canned peaches drained well work just fine. Just be sure to chop them evenly and gently fold them in to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk?

Buttermilk adds tenderness and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the acidity.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, simply leave out the chopped pecans if you have allergies or prefer a nut-free bread. The texture will still be moist and delicious thanks to the peaches.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging, your bread is perfectly baked. Keep an eye during the last 10 minutes to avoid overbaking.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

You can double the ingredients to make two loaves at once, just be sure to bake them in separate pans and monitor the baking time as ovens vary. This recipe is fantastic for sharing with friends and family!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making this Southern Peach Bread Recipe from scratch. It’s like capturing the heart of Southern hospitality in loaf form, perfect for sharing or savoring in quiet moments. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. So roll up your sleeves, grab those peaches, and fill your home with the irresistible warmth of this classic Southern delight!

Print