Easy Peach Quick Bread Recipe

The aroma wafting from my oven this afternoon was pure magic – a warm, inviting scent that promised comfort and deliciousness in every breath. It was the unmistakable fragrance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ripe peaches, all melding together in a symphony of baking bliss. My family had been eagerly anticipating this moment all day, drawn in by the tantalizing smells that had taken over the kitchen. And let me tell you, the Easy Peach Quick Bread did not disappoint. From the first bite, we were transported to a sunny summer afternoon, even though the calendar stubbornly insisted it was still holding onto the last whispers of winter. The moist, tender crumb, studded with juicy chunks of sweet peaches, was an absolute delight. Each slice was a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and fruity goodness, making it an instant hit. My kids devoured it warm with a smear of butter, while my husband and I savored it alongside our afternoon coffee. Honestly, this recipe is a game-changer – incredibly easy to whip up, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and the result is simply extraordinary. If you’re looking for a baking project that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, look no further. This Peach Quick Bread is destined to become your new go-to treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or even a light dessert. Get ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and the irresistible taste of summer, no matter the season!

Ingredients for Peach Quick Bread

To embark on this delightful baking journey, gather these simple yet essential ingredients. The beauty of this Peach Quick Bread recipe lies in its accessibility – you likely have most, if not all, of these items readily available. Let’s break down each ingredient and understand its role in creating the perfect loaf:

• Fresh Peaches: The star of our show! Ripe peaches are absolutely crucial for achieving that authentic, sweet peach flavor. Opt for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch, indicating they are perfectly ripe and bursting with juice. While fresh peaches are highly recommended, in a pinch, you can use frozen peaches (thawed and drained well) or even canned peaches (drained and patted dry). However, fresh peaches truly elevate the flavor profile and provide the best texture. Consider different varieties of peaches as well – yellow peaches offer a classic sweetness, while white peaches bring a more delicate and floral note. Freestone peaches are easier to work with as their flesh easily separates from the pit, making dicing a breeze. For this recipe, about 2-3 medium-sized peaches should suffice, yielding approximately 1 ½ to 2 cups of diced peaches. Don’t be afraid to use slightly overripe peaches that might be too soft for eating fresh – they are perfect for baking as they will be extra sweet and flavorful.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our quick bread, all-purpose flour provides structure and ensures a tender crumb. It’s readily available and versatile, making it a pantry staple for most bakers. For best results, ensure your flour is fresh and hasn’t been sitting in your pantry for too long. To measure flour accurately, use the “spoon and level” method: lightly spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge, avoiding packing it down. If you prefer a slightly denser bread, you can substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour (about ¼ to ½ cup), but be mindful that this will alter the texture and may require a slight adjustment in liquid. For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it’s designed for baking and contains xanthan gum or another binder to mimic gluten’s structure.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key in our Peach Quick Bread, and granulated sugar provides just the right level of it. It also contributes to the bread’s moistness and browning. The amount of sugar in this recipe is balanced to complement the natural sweetness of the peaches without being overly sugary. If you prefer a less sweet bread, you can slightly reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or two. For a richer flavor profile, you can substitute a portion of the granulated sugar with light brown sugar. Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses and moisture, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. Experimenting with different sugars can lead to subtle but noticeable variations in the final product.
• Baking Powder: The magic ingredient that makes our quick bread rise and become light and airy! Baking powder is a chemical leavening agent that, when combined with moisture and heat, releases carbon dioxide, creating air bubbles in the batter and causing it to expand. It’s crucial to use fresh baking powder for optimal results. To test its freshness, add a teaspoon of baking powder to a cup of hot water – if it fizzes vigorously, it’s still active. Expired baking powder will result in a flat, dense bread. Double-acting baking powder is commonly used in baking and ensures a consistent rise. There isn’t a direct substitute for baking powder in this recipe, so make sure you have it on hand.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices are the perfect companions to peaches, adding depth, complexity, and a comforting aroma to our quick bread. Cinnamon brings a sweet, woody flavor, while nutmeg adds a slightly peppery and nutty note. The combination of these spices elevates the peach flavor and creates a cozy, autumnal feel, even if you are baking this in the middle of summer. Freshly ground nutmeg is always preferable for a more intense flavor, but pre-ground nutmeg will also work perfectly well. Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your liking. If you are a spice lover, you can add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
• Eggs: Eggs are essential binders in baking, holding the ingredients together and contributing to the structure and richness of the bread. They also add moisture and leavening, contributing to a tender crumb. Use large eggs for consistency in baking recipes. Before adding eggs to the batter, ensure they are at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify more easily, creating a smoother batter and a more evenly textured bread. If you are in a rush, you can quickly warm eggs by placing them in a bowl of warm (not hot) water for a few minutes.
• Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is used in this recipe to keep the bread incredibly moist and tender. Oil, unlike butter, remains liquid at room temperature, resulting in a moister final product that stays fresh for longer. Use a neutral-flavored vegetable oil such as canola oil, soybean oil, or sunflower oil. If you prefer, you can substitute vegetable oil with melted unsalted butter for a richer flavor. Melted butter will add a buttery taste and slightly denser texture compared to oil. Coconut oil (melted) is another alternative that will impart a subtle coconut flavor, which can complement the peaches beautifully.
• Milk: Milk adds moisture and richness to the batter, helping to create a soft and tender crumb. Whole milk is recommended for its richness and flavor, but you can use 2% milk or even skim milk if you prefer. Non-dairy milk alternatives, such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, can also be used successfully in this recipe. Choose an unsweetened, plain variety of non-dairy milk to avoid altering the sweetness of the bread. Buttermilk is another excellent option for milk, adding a slight tang and extra tenderness to the bread. If using buttermilk, the bread will have a slightly different flavor profile, adding a pleasant complexity.

How to Make Peach Quick Bread

Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this mouthwatering Peach Quick Bread. This recipe is designed to be quick and easy, perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous baking sessions.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to a consistent 350°F (175°C). Accurate oven temperature is crucial for even baking. If your oven tends to run hot or cold, consider using an oven thermometer to ensure precise temperature control.
• Prepare the Loaf Pan: While the oven is preheating, prepare your loaf pan. A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan works perfectly for this recipe. Grease the pan thoroughly to prevent the bread from sticking. You can use cooking spray, softened butter, or shortening to grease the pan. For extra insurance against sticking, especially if you are using an older pan, you can grease and flour the pan. After greasing, lightly dust the pan with flour, tapping out any excess. Alternatively, you can line the loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the baked bread out of the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

• Wash and Peel: Gently wash the fresh peaches under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue. Peeling peaches is optional, but it is recommended for a smoother texture in the bread. To easily peel peaches, you can blanch them briefly in boiling water. Score a shallow “X” at the bottom of each peach, then immerse them in boiling water for about 30-60 seconds. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. The skins should now slip off easily with a paring knife. If you prefer to leave the skins on, ensure they are thoroughly washed.
• Dice the Peaches: Once peeled (or washed), cut the peaches in half and remove the pits. Dice the peach halves into small, bite-sized chunks, approximately ½ inch in size. Smaller pieces will distribute more evenly throughout the bread. Set the diced peaches aside. If using frozen peaches, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before dicing. If using canned peaches, drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels before dicing.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisking ensures that the baking powder and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, preventing clumps and ensuring consistent leavening and flavor in every bite. The salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

• Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Ensure the eggs are well beaten and incorporated with the other wet ingredients to create a smooth emulsion. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the bread, adding a touch of warmth and complexity. If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can omit it, or substitute it with almond extract for a different flavor dimension.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually Add Wet to Dry: Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula or a wooden spoon, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Mix until you no longer see streaks of flour, but be careful not to overmix. Overmixing develops gluten, which can result in a tough, dense bread. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine.

Step 6: Fold in the Peaches

• Gently Fold in Peaches: Add the diced peaches to the batter. Gently fold them in using a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Be careful not to crush the peaches while folding. Even distribution of peaches ensures that every slice of bread is studded with juicy fruit.

Step 7: Bake the Peach Quick Bread

• Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the prepared batter into the greased and prepared loaf pan. Spread the batter evenly in the pan using a spatula. This ensures even baking and a level top.
• Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the moisture content of your peaches. Start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark. If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the inside continues to bake.
• Cool: Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling in the pan allows the bread to set slightly before being removed, preventing it from crumbling. Cooling completely on a wire rack allows air to circulate around the bread, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

• Slice and Serve: Once the Peach Quick Bread is cooled (or still slightly warm, if you can’t resist!), slice it into beautiful pieces and serve. Enjoy the delightful aroma and the sweet, peachy flavor of your homemade bread!

Nutrition Facts

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)

Servings: Approximately 12 slices

Calories per serving (per slice): Approximately 250-300 calories

• Fat: 12-15g
• Saturated Fat: 2-3g
• Cholesterol: 30-40mg
• Sodium: 150-200mg
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Sugar: 18-22g
• Protein: 3-4g

This Peach Quick Bread, while a delicious treat, should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. To make it slightly healthier, you can consider the following modifications:

• Reduce Sugar: Slightly reduce the amount of granulated sugar.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Healthier Oil: Use a healthier oil option like olive oil (although this may slightly alter the flavor) or applesauce to reduce fat.
• Add Nuts or Seeds: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or seeds like flaxseeds or chia seeds for added nutrients and fiber.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (This includes gathering ingredients, preparing peaches, and mixing batter.)
• Bake Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10-20 minutes

This Peach Quick Bread truly lives up to its name – it’s quick to prepare and bake, making it a perfect option for when you need a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. The hands-on time is minimal, mostly involving chopping peaches and mixing ingredients. The oven does most of the work!

How to Serve Peach Quick Bread

Peach Quick Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Breakfast Delight:
  • Warm Slice with Butter: Enjoy a warm slice straight from the oven with a generous spread of butter or cream cheese. The melting butter adds a rich, creamy dimension to the peachy bread.
  • Toasted with Jam: Toast a slice lightly and spread with your favorite fruit jam or preserves. Peach jam would be a particularly delicious pairing, enhancing the peach flavor.
  • Alongside Yogurt and Fruit: Crumble a slice of Peach Quick Bread over a bowl of Greek yogurt or regular yogurt, topped with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a wholesome and satisfying breakfast.
• Afternoon Snack or Tea Time Treat:
  • Plain Slice with Coffee or Tea: A simple slice of Peach Quick Bread is perfect on its own with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a comforting afternoon snack.
  • With a Dollop of Whipped Cream: Elevate your snack by serving a slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or cool whip. The creamy texture complements the moist bread beautifully.
  • Paired with Ice Cream: For a slightly more indulgent treat, serve warm Peach Quick Bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or peach ice cream. The warmth of the bread and the coolness of the ice cream create a delightful contrast.
• Light Dessert:
  • Grilled Peach Bread with Caramel Sauce: Grill slices of Peach Quick Bread lightly to caramelize the edges, then drizzle with warm caramel sauce for a simple yet elegant dessert.
  • Peach Bread Pudding: Use leftover Peach Quick Bread to make a delicious bread pudding. Cube the bread, soak it in a custard mixture, and bake until golden brown and set.
  • Served with Fresh Peach Compote: Create a simple peach compote by simmering diced peaches with a little sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Serve warm compote over slices of Peach Quick Bread for a delightful dessert.

Additional Tips for Perfect Peach Quick Bread

To ensure your Peach Quick Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

1. Use Ripe Peaches: As mentioned earlier, ripe peaches are key for the best flavor and moisture. Slightly soft peaches will yield the sweetest and juiciest results. Don’t be afraid to use peaches that are just past their prime for eating fresh – they are ideal for baking.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined, and then gently fold in the peaches. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly acceptable.
3. Measure Flour Correctly: Accurate flour measurement is crucial in baking. Use the “spoon and level” method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to a dry bread. Lightly spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge.
4. Room Temperature Ingredients: While not strictly necessary for quick breads, using room temperature eggs and milk can help create a smoother batter and better emulsion, resulting in a more tender crumb.
5. Cool Completely Before Slicing (Ideally): While it’s tempting to slice into warm bread immediately, allowing the Peach Quick Bread to cool completely (or at least mostly) before slicing will make it easier to cut clean slices and prevent it from crumbling. If you must slice it warm, use a serrated knife and cut gently.

FAQ About Peach Quick Bread

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Peach Quick Bread:

Q1: Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh peaches?

A: Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before dicing and adding them to the batter. Frozen peaches might release more moisture than fresh peaches, so you might need to bake the bread for a slightly longer time. Ensure they are well-drained to prevent a soggy bread.

Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum or another binder. Gluten-free flours can sometimes absorb more liquid, so you might need to adjust the amount of milk slightly if the batter seems too thick.

Q3: Can I add nuts or other fruits to this bread?

A: Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds would be delicious additions to Peach Quick Bread. You can also add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even dried cranberries for a mixed fruit bread. About ½ to 1 cup of nuts or additional fruits should work well.

Q4: How should I store Peach Quick Bread?

A: Store Peach Quick Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen bread at room temperature before serving.

Q5: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to make Peach Quick Bread muffins. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with batter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Muffins will bake faster than a loaf, so keep an eye on them.

This Easy Peach Quick Bread recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious baking doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a loaf that is bursting with summer flavor and guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone who tastes it. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a little slice of peachy paradise!

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