This easy homemade peach bread is soft, sweet, and bursting with juicy peach flavor. It’s perfect for breakfast or a tasty snack any time of the day!
Making this bread is a breeze! Just mix the ingredients, fold in the fresh peaches, and let the oven do the magic. I love enjoying a slice warm with a bit of butter. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Using unsalted butter beats margarine for flavor and texture. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative makes a good substitute.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal, but if they aren’t in season, you can use canned or frozen peaches. Just be sure to drain any liquid and adjust the sugar slightly since canned peaches can be sweeter.
Almond Extract: This is optional but adds a lovely, nutty flavor that complements the peaches beautifully. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use a touch of extra vanilla extract instead.
Cinnamon: This optional spice enhances the bread’s flavor. If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, feel free to leave it out or substitute with nutmeg for a different twist!
How Can I Ensure My Bread Is Moist and Not Dry?
The key to keeping your peach bread moist lies in careful mixing and baking. Overmixing can lead to tough bread. Be gentle when blending the wet and dry ingredients to keep it light.
- Mix the batter until just combined—you want to see some lumps.
- Use ripe, juicy peaches for added moisture. If using frozen, let them thaw out fully and gently pat dry.
- Keep an eye on your baking time; ovens can vary. Start checking a few minutes before the suggested time.
And remember, letting the bread cool in the pan before transferring helps retain moisture too! Enjoy your delicious peach bread!
Easy Homemade Peach Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances peach flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and 50 to 60 minutes of baking time. After baking, let it cool for around 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. So, in total, you can expect this delicious peach bread to take about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and grease it well with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
2. Cream Together Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will help create a soft and airy texture for your bread!
3. Add Eggs and Extracts:
Add the two eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if you’re using it. These extracts bring a lovely depth of flavor to the bread!
4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional ground cinnamon. This helps to evenly combine the dry ingredients and prevent lumps.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour, mixing gently until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy—this is perfect!
6. Fold in the Peaches:
Now, gently fold in the finely chopped fresh peaches. Be careful not to overmix to keep the peaches intact and juicy within the bread.
7. Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.
8. Cooling Time:
When fully baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Slice and Enjoy:
Once cooled, slice your peach bread and enjoy it plain or with a little butter. It’s great for breakfast or as a sweet snack any time of the day!
This peach bread is soft, moist, and packed with fresh peach pieces, ensuring delightful flavor in every bite. Enjoy baking! 🍑
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Homemade Peach Bread
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned or frozen peaches work well, just make sure to drain any syrup from canned peaches and pat frozen peaches dry to avoid excess moisture in the batter. Adjust the sugar slightly if using sweetened canned peaches.
How Should I Store Leftover Peach Bread?
Store any leftover peach bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Can I Substitute Different Flours?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture may be slightly denser. If you want a gluten-free version, try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure to check for a blend that includes xanthan gum for rise!
What Can I Serve with Peach Bread?
This peach bread is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of butter. For a delicious twist, try pairing it with cream cheese or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert!
