As I walked through the farmer’s market, the vibrant colors of fresh peaches caught my eye, and I knew I had to bring home a basket. That’s when inspiration struck—it's time to create a delightful Peach Pecan Bread! This recipe is not only a fantastic way to celebrate the sweet, succulent flavors of ripe peaches, but it also features the rich crunch of pecans, making it a true homemade gem. Perfect for brunch or a cozy afternoon snack, this Peach Pecan Bread comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, allowing you to savor every aromatic moment as it bakes in the oven. Plus, it’s the ideal treat to share with friends or keep all to yourself! Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the warm scent of comfort? Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!
Why is Peach Pecan Bread so special?
Irresistible warmth greets you as this delightful bread bakes, filling your home with a comforting aroma. Easy to make, this recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it perfect for any skill level. Flavor-packed with juicy peaches and crunchy pecans, every slice offers a delicious bite. Versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, it suits any occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up fresh peaches! Enjoy sharing this rustic treat with loved ones, sparking joy in every moment.
Peach Pecan Bread Ingredients
• Dive into this delicious Peach Pecan Bread with a blend of fresh flavors!
For the Bread
- All-purpose flour – A staple for the perfect bread structure.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread and enhances the peach flavor.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates other flavors.
- Baking powder – Provides that lovely rise to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Milk – Adds moisture for a tender crumb; use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Canola oil – Keeps the bread moist while adding a subtle flavor.
- Large eggs – Binds the ingredients together for a cohesive texture.
- Fresh peaches – The star of the show, offering juicy bites that brighten every slice.
- Pecans – Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; swap with walnuts if you prefer.
Now, let’s get ready to bring this lovely Peach Pecan Bread to life in your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peach Pecan Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Peach Pecan Bread bakes evenly and thoroughly. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly with canola oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and milk until well combined, creating a smooth base. Pour in the canola oil and stir well to integrate the flavors. Now, crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the batter is creamy and blended, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to aerate the mixture. This step is key to ensuring your Peach Pecan Bread rises beautifully and has a light texture. Gradually add this dry mix into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the bread dense.
Step 4: Fold in the Peaches and Pecans
Gently fold in the diced peaches and coarsely chopped pecans with a spatula, ensuring an even distribution without overworking the batter. The juicy peaches will add delightful sweetness, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch in every slice. This step should take just a minute or two, as you want to keep the batter fluffy.
Step 5: Prepare the Pan and Bake
Spoon the delicious batter into your prepared loaf pan, filling it about two-thirds full for optimal rising. Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it's done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove your Peach Pecan Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. This cooling period makes it easier to slice and prevents the bread from crumbling. After cooling, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into warm, fragrant pieces.
How to Store and Freeze Peach Pecan Bread
Room Temperature: Keep your Peach Pecan Bread wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to retain its freshness for up to 3 days.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the bread in a sealed container. It can last up to 1 week, but be wary that refrigeration may slightly dry it out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they will keep well for up to 3 months, making for an easy grab-and-go snack.
Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight or pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds for a warm treat that tastes freshly baked!
What to Serve with Peach Pecan Bread?
Elevate your meal experience by pairing this delightful bread with complementary sides and sweet treats.
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Creamy Yogurt: The tangy creaminess balances the sweetness of the bread, making it a perfect breakfast option.
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Cinnamon Butter: A spread of this buttery delight will enhance the warm spices and offer a comforting touch. It’s simply irresistible!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bursting with vibrant flavors and textures, a fruit salad can brighten your plate and add a refreshing note. Feel free to mix seasonal fruits for variety!
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Savory Cheese Platter: Include Brie or goat cheese, which will contrast beautifully with the sweet peach flavors, making it a sophisticated snack.
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Honey Drizzle: Just a drizzle over warm slices adds a natural sweetness that enhances the dish’s rustic essence.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing drink like iced tea or zesty lemonade pairs perfectly, cutting through the sweetness and refreshing your palate.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add a touch of extravagance with a drizzle of dark chocolate, providing a delightful contrast to the peach and pecan flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: As for dessert, pairing a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist!
Make Ahead Options
These Peach Pecan Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while enjoying homemade goodness! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all wet and dry ingredients as described in the recipe, and fold in the diced peaches and chopped pecans. Transfer the batter into a greased loaf pan, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain the quality, ensure your batter is stored in a cool area and consumed within the day. When you're ready to bake, just remove the pan from the fridge and proceed with baking for that freshly made aroma, yielding delicious results with minimal effort!
Peach Pecan Bread Variations
Feel free to make this delightful recipe your own with these fun variations and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a similar texture that everyone can enjoy.
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans altogether or substitute with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch without the nuts.
- Vegan: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and almond or coconut milk to create a delicious plant-based version.
- Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates the flavor.
- Mix in Berries: Incorporate half a cup of blueberries or raspberries along with the peaches for a fruity explosion that delightfully balances sweetness.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top slices of cooled bread with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent treat perfect for a special occasion.
- Banana Swirl: Replace half of the peaches with mashed ripe bananas for added moisture and sweetness, giving the bread another layer of flavor.
- Chili Flake: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red chili flakes to the batter; it enhances the sweetness of the peaches in an unexpected way.
Expert Tips for Peach Pecan Bread
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Choose Ripe Peaches: Make sure your peaches are ripe and fragrant for the best flavor. Overripe peaches can make the bread too soggy, while underripe ones lack sweetness.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of the light, fluffy texture you want in your Peach Pecan Bread.
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Check for Doneness: Rely on the knife test to ensure perfect baking. Remember, the knife should come out clean, but don’t rely only on time; your oven’s temperature can vary.
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Experiment with Nuts: If you want to try a different nut, walnuts make a wonderful substitute for pecans, adding a unique flavor to your Peach Pecan Bread.
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Cool Before Slicing: Patience is key! Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 20 minutes to avoid crumbling when slicing. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Peach Pecan Bread Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the best peaches for my Peach Pecan Bread?
Absolutely! Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma. The skin should be vibrant without dark spots all over, which indicates overripeness. If they're firm, let them sit at room temperature for a few days until they yield a little when pressed.
How should I store leftover Peach Pecan Bread?
To keep your bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to a week, but remember it may dry out a bit.
Can I freeze Peach Pecan Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the bread into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method allows your Peach Pecan Bread to stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or microwave for about 20-30 seconds for a lovely warm treat.
What if my Peach Pecan Bread turns out dense?
Very! If your bread ends up dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Always measure your flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Mix until just combined to maintain that light, fluffy texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for Peach Pecan Bread?
For those with nut allergies, you can substitute the pecans with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts. If dairy is a concern, using almond or oat milk instead of cow's milk will work just as well, keeping that wonderful moisture in the bread.
How long does it take to bake Peach Pecan Bread?
It typically takes about 50-60 minutes to bake, but I recommend using the knife test to check for doneness—it should come out clean when inserted in the center. Remember, ovens vary, so keep an eye on it for a beautiful golden-brown top!
Irresistibly Moist Peach Pecan Bread You’ll Love!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Mix the granulated sugar and milk in a large bowl, then add canola oil and eggs, mixing until creamy.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking powder, then gradually add to wet ingredients and mix gently.
- Fold in the diced peaches and chopped pecans carefully to maintain fluffiness in the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes until a knife comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
