Peach bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This moist and fruity bread is not only a delicious way to showcase fresh peaches but also a versatile dish that can elevate any brunch table. The sweet, fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen as the bread bakes is simply irresistible. With its golden crust and tender crumb, peach bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a perfect option for gatherings, picnics, or even a quiet afternoon snack. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in the sweetness of the season, this peach bread recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your household.
Tools and Equipment
Before you embark on your peach bread baking adventure, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything at hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
- 9″x5″ bread pan
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Cooling rack
- Toothpick or cake tester
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious peach bread:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup 2% milk
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups diced fresh peaches
Granulated sugar: This is the primary sweetener in the bread, contributing to its moist texture and enhancing the natural sweetness of the peaches.
2% milk: Adds moisture to the batter, creating a tender crumb. You can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Canola oil: This oil helps keep the bread moist and tender. It has a neutral flavor, allowing the peach flavor to shine through.
Large egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold the ingredients together and providing structure to the bread.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the peaches beautifully.
All-purpose flour: The main structure of the bread, providing the bulk and helping it rise.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the bread.
Diced fresh peaches: The star of the show! Fresh peaches not only add natural sweetness but also moisture and a burst of flavor.
Preparation Steps
Follow these preparation steps to ensure your peach bread turns out perfectly every time:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the sugar, milk, oil, egg, and vanilla. Make sure everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients separately helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread.
- Gently fold the diced peaches into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your batter ready, follow these cooking instructions to bake your peach bread:
- Pour the bread batter into a greased 9″x5″ bread pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze by combining powdered sugar, melted butter, diced peaches, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix until smooth. You can adjust the consistency by adding milk or cream as needed.
- Once the bread is cool, spread the glaze on top. Slice and serve!
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This peach bread is not just a tasty treat; it also offers some nutritional benefits. Each slice contains essential nutrients from the fresh peaches and provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the flour and sugar. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Peaches are rich in vitamins A and C, which are important for skin health and immune function. They also contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. The use of canola oil provides healthy fats, while the egg adds protein, making this a more balanced option for a breakfast or snack.
Enjoying peach bread as part of a balanced diet can provide energy and satisfaction, making it a great start to your day or a delightful afternoon snack.
Common Mistakes and Tips to Perfect the Recipe
To ensure your peach bread turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid and tips to keep in mind:
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense bread. Mix until just combined.
- Using overly ripe peaches: While ripe peaches are sweet, they can make the batter too wet. Aim for firm but ripe peaches.
- Not checking for doneness: Every oven is different. Always check with a toothpick to ensure your bread is baked through.
- Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds a finishing touch that enhances the flavors and presentation of the bread.
Storage, Serving, and Reheating Tips
Once you’ve baked your delicious peach bread, you’ll want to know how to store it properly and enjoy it at its best:
- Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture. It will last for up to a week.
- Serving: Peach bread is delightful on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a brunch setting, consider pairing it with fresh fruit or a light salad.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm bread, slice and microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300ºF until heated through.
FAQs and Recipe Variations
Here are some frequently asked questions about peach bread, along with a few tasty variations to try:
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned peaches, but be sure to drain them well and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
Can I freeze peach bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What are some variations I can try?
- Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
- Incorporate nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutrition.
- Experiment with other fruits, such as blueberries or strawberries, for different flavor profiles.
Conclusion
Peach bread is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of summer, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and moisture that is sure to please any palate. With its simple preparation and versatile serving options, this recipe is not only about enjoying a delicious treat but also about creating cherished memories with family and friends. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the sweet aroma of peach bread fill your home. You deserve to indulge in this seasonal delight!