This Moist Southern Peach Bread is a delightful treat that brings a taste of summer to your kitchen! It’s soft, sweet, and packed with juicy peaches that add so much flavor.
Whenever I bake this bread, I can’t resist sneaking a slice while it’s still warm. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Trust me, you’ll want to share, or maybe not! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. I find that butter gives a rich flavor that margarine just can’t match.
Fresh Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are best for this recipe. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches—just drain them well. I also like adding a sprinkle of lemon juice on fresh peaches to brighten the flavor.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and tang. If you don’t have any, mix milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes. I always keep this trick handy for baked goods!
Spices: Cinnamon is a must, but nutmeg is optional. If you love warm spices, feel free to add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for extra flavor. My favorite is to add a hint of vanilla to enhance the sweetness.
How Do I Ensure My Bread is Moist?
Getting that perfect moist texture in your peach bread is all about balancing ingredients. Here are some key tips:
- Don’t over-mix your batter! Mix until just combined to avoid tough bread.
- Make sure your peaches are fresh and juicy—this adds natural moisture.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few crumbs, not completely dry.
- Let the bread cool properly. This helps seal in moisture!
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a wonderfully moist and flavorful Southern Peach Bread every time!
How to Make Moist Southern Peach Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or milk
- 1 1/2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This deliciously moist Southern Peach Bread will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 55-65 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at a total time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, plus cooling time. It’s perfect for a cozy afternoon bake or to share at gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This helps the bread come out easily once it’s baked. Don’t skip this step!
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step adds air, making your bread soft.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely flavor!
4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these together first helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk—start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; over-mixing can make the bread tough, and we want it nice and tender!
6. Fold in the Peaches:
Gently fold in the diced peaches with a spatula or wooden spoon. This adds the star ingredient—delicious juicy chunks of peach!
7. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!
9. Cool the Bread:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps keep it moist.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your delicious peach bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with a pat of butter. Enjoy the moist, fruity goodness of your Southern Peach Bread!
This recipe beautifully captures the moist texture and lovely peach flavor that everyone loves. Happy baking!
FAQ for Moist Southern Peach Bread
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned peaches if fresh ones aren’t available. Make sure to drain them well and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the batter. This will help maintain the right consistency in your bread!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon of it to help with binding.
Can I Add Nuts to This Bread?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch. I recommend adding about 1/2 cup to the batter when you fold in the peaches. Just make sure to adjust your baking time slightly if necessary.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover peach bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy another slice!
