Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched orchard? This fresh peach bread recipe is the perfect way to capture the sweet essence of summer. Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of baking bread infused with the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches – a truly delightful homemade treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. This recipe is surprisingly easy, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and delicious dessert or quick bread. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create truly magical, healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (about 3 medium peaches)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Optional Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This ensures your bread bakes evenly and releases easily.
Combining Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This simple step prevents lumps and ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
Creaming Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is best achieved using an electric mixer, but can be done by hand with a little elbow grease. The result will be a lighter and airier bread.
Adding Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Combining Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
Folding in Peaches and Nuts:
- Gently fold in the diced peaches and pecans (if using). Be careful not to crush the peaches.
Baking the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling and Glazing:
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
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While the bread cools, prepare the glaze (optional) by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
Tips for the Best Peach Bread:
- Use ripe peaches: Ripe peaches will provide the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check if the bread is baked through.
- Let the bread cool completely: This will prevent the glaze from melting.
Variations:
- Lemon Peach Bread: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the batter.
- Spiced Peach Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the batter.
- Streusel Topping: Make a streusel topping by combining 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup chopped nuts, and 1/4 cup cold butter.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Protein: 4-5g Carbohydrates: 35-40g Sugar: 15-20g
This delicious and easy peach bread recipe is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the burst of summer flavor in every bite! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, bake sales or simply enjoying a homemade treat with loved ones. It’s a testament to how simple, delicious dishes can be created with fresh, seasonal ingredients.