Delicious Homemade Peach Bread

Introduction

Peach bread is a delightful and moist quick bread packed with sweet peach flavor. This recipe is perfect for summer when fresh peaches are in season, but canned peaches work just as well, making it an easy, year-round treat. The combination of juicy peaches and soft, buttery bread creates a comforting, fruity delight that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or a light dessert, this peach bread is sure to impress.

History of Peach Bread

Peaches have been cultivated for over 4,000 years, originating in China and spreading worldwide. In the Southern United States, peaches became a staple fruit, often used in cobblers, pies, and breads. Peach bread is a traditional Southern-style quick bread that showcases the fruit’s natural sweetness while providing a soft, cake-like texture.

Benefits of Peach Bread

1. Rich in Vitamins – Peaches contain vitamin C and A, promoting skin health and immune function.
2. Fiber-Packed – The bread contains fiber from the peaches and flour, aiding digestion.
3. Moist and Naturally Sweet – Using canned or fresh peaches adds natural sweetness, reducing the need for extra sugar.
4. Versatile – Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, and can be customized with nuts or spices.
5. Easy to Make – This is a one-bowl, mix-and-bake recipe, perfect for beginners

Peach bread isn’t just delicious—it also comes with several health and practical benefits:

1. Nutrient-Rich

• Peaches are loaded with vitamins A and C, which support immune function, skin health, and eye health.
• The eggs and Greek yogurt (or sour cream) provide protein and healthy fats for energy.

2. High in Fiber

• Peaches and flour add dietary fiber, which helps digestion and promotes gut health.
• Fiber can also help regulate blood sugar and keep you full longer.

3. Naturally Sweet & Moist

• Peaches add natural sweetness, reducing the need for excessive sugar.
• They also make the bread incredibly moist and soft without requiring too much butter or oil.

4. Great for Breakfast or Snacking

• A slice of peach bread provides energy and nutrients to start your day.
• It’s a better alternative to store-bought pastries that are high in processed sugar.

5. Customizable & Easy to Make

• You can make it healthier by using whole wheat flour or reducing sugar.
• Add nuts, spices (like cinnamon or nutmeg), or even a drizzle of honey for extra flavor and nutrients.

6. Boosts Mood & Comforting

• Sweet, warm, and soft peach bread is a comfort food that can boost mood and reduce stress.
• Baking at home also promotes relaxation and creativity.

7. Versatile & Budget-Friendly

• Uses simple pantry ingredients and canned or fresh peaches, making it affordable.
• Can be enjoyed warm, cold, toasted, or with toppings like honey, butter, or cream cheese.

Ingredients

For the Peach Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for extra moisture)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup canned peaches, drained and diced (or fresh peaches)

For a Glaze (Optional):

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons peach juice (from the can) or milk

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
• Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream (or Greek yogurt).

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

• Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
• Gently fold in diced peaches, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
• Smooth the top and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

• Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
• If using the glaze, whisk powdered sugar and peach juice together and drizzle over the cooled bread.

Methods of Serving

• Breakfast: Serve warm with butter.
• Dessert: Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Snack: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• Gift Idea: Wrap in parchment paper and give as a homemade treat.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

(Approximate values based on 12 slices per loaf)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 14g

Macronutrients:

• Calories: ~210 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Protein: ~4g
• Fats: ~9g
• Saturated Fat: ~5g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugar: ~14g

Vitamins & Minerals:

• Vitamin A: ~8% of Daily Value (DV) (from eggs and peaches)
• Vitamin C: ~6% of DV (from peaches)
• Calcium: ~5% of DV (from yogurt/sour cream)
• Iron: ~6% of DV (from flour)
• Potassium: ~120mg (from peaches and eggs)

Healthier Adjustments:

• Reduce sugar by using natural sweeteners like honey or reducing the amount.
• Increase fiber by swapping half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Lower fat by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Boost protein by adding chopped nuts or a bit of protein powder.

Who Will Love This Peach Bread?

1. Fruit Lovers – The sweet, juicy peaches make every bite refreshing.
2. Baking Enthusiasts – A simple yet impressive homemade recipe.
3. Busy Individuals – Quick to prepare and perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts.
4. Families – A kid-friendly treat that’s not overly sweet.
5. Health-Conscious Eaters – Can be made healthier with whole wheat flour and less sugar.

Conclusion

Peach bread is an easy-to-make, moist, and flavorful treat that brings the deliciousness of peaches into every bite. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a drizzle of glaze, this bread is bound to become a favorite. Try it out and share it with loved ones!