If you have a soft spot for classic Southern comforts, then this Moist and Sweet Southern Peach Bread Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Bursting with tender, juicy peaches and just the right amount of sweetness, this bread offers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feel like a warm hug from the South. The golden crust gives way to a moist, fragrant crumb studded with luscious peach pieces, making every bite utterly irresistible. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a simple dessert, this recipe delivers a delightful treat you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps its ingredient list wonderfully simple, relying on pantry staples and fresh peaches to shine. Each component is carefully chosen to build the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma that make this bread truly special.
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the bread to rise and hold soft crumbs.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread without overpowering the natural peach flavor.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the bread rise and keeps it light.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness beautifully.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a subtle warm spice that complements the peaches perfectly.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients while adding richness.
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil: Ensures moistness and tender crumb without heaviness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings depth and a lovely aromatic note.
- 2 cups (330g) diced peaches (fresh or well-drained canned): The star ingredient, bursting with juicy sweetness.
- ¼ cup (60ml) peach juice or milk (optional): Adds extra moisture if needed for a soft batter.
- Optional toppings – coarse sugar, glaze, or chopped pecans: Great for adding a delightful crunch or shine on top.
How to Make Moist and Sweet Southern Peach Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly heated when the batter is ready. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make sure your bread comes out without a hitch. This step ensures your crust bakes evenly and releases beautifully from the pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if you’re using it. This combination builds the foundation of flavor and texture for the bread, and whisking helps distribute the ingredients evenly so that every bite is consistent.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Crack in your eggs, pour in the vegetable oil, and add the vanilla extract. Stir everything gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix because you want tender bites, not a dense loaf. If your batter feels too thick, now’s the time to add the optional peach juice or milk to achieve that perfect moist texture.
Step 4: Fold in Peaches
Gently fold your diced peaches into the batter. This keeps the fruit intact and evenly distributed so you get juicy surprises in every slice. Treat the peaches with care to avoid breaking them down into the batter and losing that wonderful texture.
Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Pour your batter into the prepared pan, then sprinkle with your chosen topping—whether coarse sugar for sparkle, glaze for shine, or chopped pecans for crunch. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, checking with a toothpick after 50 minutes; it should come out clean when the bread is perfectly baked. If the crust starts browning too quickly, loosely tent the loaf with foil to protect it.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes to set up, then gently transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing it while warm can cause the bread to crumble, so patience will reward you with those neat, perfect slices.
How to Serve Moist and Sweet Southern Peach Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your serving experience by adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey on top. If you’re feeling indulgent, a smear of butter or cream cheese brings out the moist sweetness and makes each bite even more heavenly.
Side Dishes
This peach bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or a cooling glass of iced tea—ideal for a relaxing afternoon. It also complements creamy yogurt or fresh fruit salad if you want to keep the meal light and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice and serve this bread warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist. Or, try toasting slices lightly and topping them with ricotta and a drizzle of honey for a sophisticated brunch option. Its natural sweetness and tender crumb make it versatile for many occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra Moist and Sweet Southern Peach Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This preserves its moist texture and fresh peach flavor beautifully.
Freezing
If you want to make ahead or save leftovers longer, freezing is your friend. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread again, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. Warm individual slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds to revive the soft crumb and fresh peach essence.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the bread soggy. Fresh or canned peaches work wonderfully too, so feel free to use what you have on hand.
Is it necessary to add cinnamon?
Cinnamon is optional but highly recommended as it adds a lovely warm note that complements the peaches beautifully. If you’re not a fan, you can leave it out without impacting the bread’s basic structure or sweetness.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?
Yes, melted butter can be used for a richer flavor, but keep in mind it may affect the bread’s texture slightly, making it a touch denser. Both fats work well, so choose according to your taste preference.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The best test is inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is perfectly baked. If batter sticks to the toothpick, give it a few more minutes and test again.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the bread?
Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even shredded coconut can add wonderful texture and flavor. Just fold them in along with the peaches to keep the loaf balanced and delicious.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Moist and Sweet Southern Peach Bread Recipe enough for anyone who loves a delightful, home-baked treat bursting with fresh fruit flavor. It’s simple to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your baking repertoire—you won’t regret it!
Print
Moist and Sweet Southern Peach Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 slices
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Moist and Sweet Southern Peach Bread is a delightful treat packed with juicy peaches and warm cinnamon notes. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients and a tender crumb that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60ml) peach juice or milk (optional, for moisture)
Add-ins
- 2 cups (330g) diced peaches (fresh or well-drained canned)
- Optional: coarse sugar, glaze, or chopped pecans for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using) until evenly combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. If the batter feels too thick, incorporate the peach juice or milk to achieve a smoother consistency.
- Fold in Peaches: Carefully fold in the diced peaches, being gentle to keep them intact and to avoid overworking the batter, which could toughen the bread.
- Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar or chopped pecans on top for added texture and sweetness. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and preserve moisture.
Notes
- Use fresh peaches when in season for the best flavor and texture; canned peaches should be well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
- The optional peach juice or milk helps maintain moisture, especially if using canned peaches.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and light.
- If you prefer, add a glaze or sprinkle chopped pecans on top before baking for extra flavor and crunch.
- Store leftover bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
