Southern Peach Bread Recipe – The Best Easy Peach Bread

Q: Can I use canned or frozen peaches in peach bread?

Yes, both work well! Just be sure to drain canned peaches thoroughly and pat dry frozen peaches after thawing. This helps maintain the right moisture balance in the loaf.

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Sweet, juicy, and full of old-fashioned charm, Southern Peach Bread is a summer favorite that blends homey flavor with effortless prep. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, dessert, or as a thoughtful gift, this quick bread delivers soft texture and big peach flavor without needing yeast. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make this moist, flavorful loaf and why it deserves a spot in your baking rotation.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Brown Sugar Peach Cake for another peachy twist.

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Why Southern Peach Bread Is the Perfect Anytime Treat

A Southern classic meets summer freshness

Southern Peach Bread embodies the charm of warm-weather baking. Bursting with diced peaches and hints of vanilla, this quick bread is a lighter alternative to cobblers or pies but still captures that juicy, sweet essence of fresh peaches.

No yeast, no problem – quick bread done right

One of the best things about this recipe? No rising time needed. It’s a straightforward quick bread that bakes beautifully with pantry ingredients and a handful of ripe peaches.

Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or gifting

Warm a slice with butter in the morning, enjoy it chilled with tea, or wrap up a loaf as a summer gift—this recipe is that versatile. It’s just sweet enough to satisfy without being overpowering.

Must-Have Ingredients for Homemade Peach Bread

Choosing the best peaches (fresh, canned, or frozen)

Fresh, ripe peaches are ideal—they offer the best texture and flavor. But canned (drained) or frozen (thawed and patted dry) peaches can work in a pinch. Aim for soft, juicy pieces that distribute evenly in the batter.

Pantry staples that deliver flavor and texture

To make the batter, you’ll need:

1 cup diced peaches (peeled)
½ cup vegetable oil
½ cup sugar
2 eggs
½ cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt

These ingredients give the bread a moist crumb and a lightly sweet flavor. The sour cream adds richness without heaviness.

Ingredient substitutions and pro tips

You can sub Greek yogurt for sour cream or try coconut oil in place of vegetable oil. To deepen flavor, add a dash of cinnamon or almond extract. For a crunch, fold in chopped pecans.

Check out our Blueberry Peach Cheesecake for another peach-inspired treat.

How to Make Southern Peach Bread Step-by-Step

Prepping your pans and peaches

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease either three mini loaf pans or one large pan. Dice your peaches and pat them dry if using canned or frozen to avoid sogginess.

Mixing the batter for perfect texture

In a large bowl, combine the peaches, oil, sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla. Stir until smooth. Add flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined—don’t overmix!

Baking times for mini vs. full-size loaves

Pour the batter into your pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes if using mini pans, or 50–55 minutes for a full loaf. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.

Don’t miss our Homemade Peach Lemonade for the perfect drink to pair with your peach bread.

Expert Tips for Perfect Peach Bread Every Time

How to keep it moist and never dry

Moisture is key to great quick bread. Always measure your flour correctly—scooping can compact it and make the loaf dense. Let your eggs and sour cream come to room temp before mixing. And don’t skip the oil; it adds essential moisture.

Another tip: allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes after baking before transferring it to a wire rack. This traps steam and softens the crust without making it soggy.

Add-ins and toppings to enhance flavor

Want to elevate the taste? Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg. Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch. Or, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for a subtle crust.

For even more decadence, try a simple glaze: whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk and vanilla, and drizzle over the cooled loaf.

Discover great ideas like our Easiest Rustic Bread for simple and hearty homemade bakes.

Mistakes to avoid with fruit-based quick breads

Avoid overly wet peaches—they can weigh down your loaf. If using canned fruit, make sure it’s well-drained and blotted. Also, don’t overmix once you add the flour. A few lumps in the batter are okay and help maintain a tender texture.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead Tips

How long it lasts at room temp vs. fridge

Store your Southern Peach Bread in an airtight container or zip bag at room temperature for up to 4 days. Want it to last longer? Refrigerate for up to 5 days, though the texture may firm up slightly.

Freezer-friendly tips for batch baking

Planning ahead? This bread freezes well! Wrap individual slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temp, and warm up briefly in the oven before serving.

Reheating for best flavor and texture

To bring back that just-baked magic, toast a slice lightly or warm it in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Add a pat of butter and enjoy with coffee or tea.

Delicious Variations to Try Next

Cinnamon streusel topping for extra indulgence

Take your loaf to the next level by adding a cinnamon streusel topping: mix ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp flour, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 2 tbsp butter until crumbly. Sprinkle it over the batter before baking.

Cream cheese glaze or lemon icing drizzle

For a bakery-style finish, top with a glaze. Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tsp lemon juice or softened cream cheese for a tangy touch that complements the peach flavor beautifully.

Turn it into muffins or a peach loaf cake

Want something grab-and-go? Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for 18–22 minutes. For a dessert-style loaf, serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Check out our Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars for another sweet, fruity bake that’s sure to impress.

FAQ: Southern Peach Bread Troubleshooting & More

How do you store peach bread?

Store peach bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To extend shelf life, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Always wrap tightly to prevent drying out.

Can I use canned or frozen peaches in peach bread?

Yes, both work well! Just be sure to drain canned peaches thoroughly and pat dry frozen peaches after thawing. This helps maintain the right moisture balance in the loaf.

Why is my peach bread too dense or wet?

Too much moisture or overmixing can make the bread dense. Ensure peaches are well-drained and measure flour accurately. Mix only until ingredients are combined—overmixing develops gluten and toughens the bread.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend made for baking. Make sure your baking soda and other ingredients are also certified gluten-free for best results.

Conclusion: Make This Southern Peach Bread Your New Favorite

Southern Peach Bread isn’t just a quick and easy bake—it’s a comforting, peach-packed treat that’s perfect year-round. Whether you’re slicing it warm with butter, serving it as dessert, or freezing it for later, this moist and tender loaf brings summer flavor in every bite.

Don’t wait until peach season to try it—make it now and discover why this Southern recipe deserves a place in your baking rotation.

Looking for more comfort bakes? Check out our California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake Recipe next!

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Why Southern Peach Bread Is the Perfect Anytime Treat

A Southern classic meets summer freshness