If you’re searching for a treat that magically bridges sweet, fruity comfort and effortless baking, look no further than Southern Peach Bread. This golden loaf is bursting with peaches and has a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The best part? There’s no yeast involved and it comes together with simple staples you probably already have stocked in your kitchen. Whether you’re after a satisfying breakfast, a sunny snack, or something special to serve guests, Southern Peach Bread is the answer you didn’t know you were waiting for.

Southern Peach Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Southern Peach Bread plays a starring role, contributing to its irresistible flavor and inviting texture. Don’t let the short list fool you—these are pantry classics that, when combined, become something truly memorable.

Peaches: Fresh, juicy peaches give the bread its signature sweetness and create pockets of soft fruit throughout each slice.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the loaf deliciously moist and tender, and makes mixing a breeze—no creaming butter needed.
Sugar: Sweetens the bread and enhances the natural peach flavor without overpowering it.
Eggs: Bind the batter, add richness, and help the bread rise with a light, bouncy crumb.
Sour cream: Offers tang and extra moisture, resulting in a soft, almost creamy texture that feels like a bakery treat.
Vanilla extract: Lends warmth and depth, subtly complementing the peachy notes.
Flour: The backbone of the loaf—keeps everything together and balances the wetter ingredients.
Baking soda: Ensures the bread rises for a lofty, fluffy crumb.
Salt: Just a pinch is all you need to balance the sweetness and bring out every flavor.

How to Make Southern Peach Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees so it’s ready when your batter is. Spray three mini loaf pans or one large loaf pan with non-stick spray—this step ensures your lovely bread turns out easily without sticking.

Step 2: Stir Together the Wet Ingredients and Peaches

Grab a medium bowl and combine your diced, peeled peaches with the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well blended. This forms the flavorful, moist base of your Southern Peach Bread—the sour cream and oil create unmatched softness, while the peaches add bursts of fruity bite in every slice.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, gently stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix just until combined; don’t overmix! It’s fine if the batter looks a little lumpy here and there. This gentle touch keeps your loaf tender and avoids that dreaded dense bread texture.

Step 4: Fill the Pans and Bake

Divide your batter evenly among the prepared mini loaf pans (or pour it all into the large loaf pan if using). Slide the pans into your preheated oven and bake—25 to 30 minutes for mini loaves, or 50 to 55 minutes for a large loaf. The bread should be golden on top and when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, you’re all set.

Step 5: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy

Once baked, let your Southern Peach Bread cool slightly in the pan. This lets the flavors settle and makes slicing easier. Serve up warm slices plain, with a pat of butter, or however your heart desires!

How to Serve Southern Peach Bread

Garnishes

Try dusting your loaf with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light vanilla glaze for an extra boost of sweetness. Fresh peach slices or a spoonful of whipped cream make each serving feel a little more decadent, perfect for dessert or afternoon tea.

Side Dishes

Southern Peach Bread pairs beautifully with a dollop of Greek yogurt and some fresh berries for breakfast. For a brunch spread, serve with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a bright fruit salad—the bread’s subtle sweetness complements savory sides with ease.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your loaf thick and toast gently for an elevated, warm treat at breakfast. Try layering slices with vanilla ice cream or mascarpone for a show-stopping summer dessert. For a crowd, turn mini loaves into gifts by wrapping them in parchment and twine—Southern Peach Bread is always a welcome surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Southern Peach Bread covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate the loaf in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness for up to five days.

Freezing

This bread freezes like a dream! Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil. Pop them in a freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature whenever you crave a taste of summer.

Reheating

Heat slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm in a low oven. If you love a crisp edge and soft center, try toasting thick slices briefly under the broiler or in your toaster oven—so good with a swipe of butter.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen peaches for Southern Peach Bread?

Absolutely! Just be sure to drain canned peaches thoroughly and pat them dry, or thaw and gently squeeze extra moisture from frozen peaches before dicing. This helps keep your bread from getting soggy while still delivering a great peachy flavor.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

A toothpick inserted in the center of the loaf should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The top of the bread will be golden and the edges may pull away slightly from the pan—these are both happy signs your Southern Peach Bread is ready!

Can I add nuts or spices to the basic recipe?

Definitely! For extra crunch, fold in a half-cup of chopped pecans or walnuts with the dry ingredients. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warm, cozy notes that play beautifully with the peaches.

What’s the best way to peel fresh peaches?

The easiest method is to blanch whole peaches for about 30 seconds in boiling water, then plunge them into ice water. The skins should slip right off, letting you dice them quickly for your Southern Peach Bread.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Of course! Just divide the batter among a lined muffin tin and bake at 350 degrees for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll get adorable, portable Southern Peach Bread muffins perfect for on-the-go treats.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this dazzling loaf enough—Southern Peach Bread is pure kitchen joy, whether you’re a lifelong baker or just starting out. Give it a try, share it with friends, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to recipe all season long!