Peach Pecan Bread Summer has become my absolute favorite way to capture the essence of warm, sunny days. I remember the first time I made this, the aroma of ripe peaches and toasted pecans filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to childhood summers spent at my grandmother’s house. It’s truly the ultimate summer fruit bread with pecans, bursting with sweet, juicy peach chunks and crunchy pecans in every bite. This easy peach pecan bread is so simple to whip up, even on the busiest summer afternoons. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Peach Pecan Bread Summer
This delightful loaf is perfect for so many reasons:
- The taste is pure summer sunshine with sweet peaches and nutty pecans.
- It’s incredibly easy peach pecan bread to make, with a simple batter.
- Prep time is a breeze, usually under 15 minutes.
- It’s a fantastic way to use up fresh summer peaches.
- This pecan peach bread for summer is a budget-friendly treat.
- Kids and adults alike adore this moist, flavorful bread.
- It’s a versatile dessert or breakfast option.
- Enjoying this pecan peach bread for summer is a cherished seasonal tradition.
Ingredients for Peach Pecan Bread Summer
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delicious summer bake. This fresh peach loaf with pecans relies on simple pantry staples and the star of the show: ripe peaches! You’ll need:
- 2 cups all purpose flour – the base for our tender bread
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – for a good rise
- 1 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness and moisture
- 1/4 cup canola oil – keeps the bread moist
- 1/4 cup milk – adds to the tender crumb
- 2 large eggs – bind everything together
- 2 large peaches, peeled, pitted, and cut into chunks – ripe ones are key for flavor!
- 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped – for that delightful crunch
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Peach Pecan Bread Summer
Follow these straightforward steps to create a truly moist peach pecan bread recipe that sings of summer. The process is simple, and the results are incredibly rewarding!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan, or two smaller half-loaf pans. This prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful crust.
- Step 2: Prepare your fruit and nuts. Peel, pit, and chop your ripe peaches into bite-sized chunks. Coarsely chop your pecans. Having these ready makes the mixing process smooth.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients and sugar. Combine the 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup canola oil, and 2 large eggs until well blended. This mixture forms the base of our batter.
- Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients. Stir in the 2 cups all purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 teaspoons baking powder into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Step 5: Gently fold in the peaches and pecans. Distribute the chopped peaches and pecans evenly throughout the batter. This is a key step in how to make peach pecan bread that’s loaded with flavor and texture.
- Step 6: Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan(s). Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 7: Bake for 50-60 minutes for a standard loaf, or about 35-45 minutes for half-loaf pans. You’ll know it’s done when a knife or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be heavenly!
- Step 8: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. This allows it to set properly before you attempt to remove it.
- Step 9: Prepare the simple glaze while the bread cools. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth.
- Step 10: Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled bread just before serving. This adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, completing your delicious peach pecan bread summer creation.
Pro Tips for the Best Peach Pecan Bread Summer
Want to elevate your summer baking? These tips will help you achieve a truly perfect loaf every time:
- Use ripe, but not overly mushy, peaches. They should still hold their shape slightly after baking.
- Toast your pecans lightly before adding them to the batter. This enhances their nutty flavor and adds a lovely crunch.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added; this is crucial for a tender crumb.
- A simple glaze adds a beautiful finish, but don’t add it while the bread is too warm, or it will just melt away.
What’s the secret to perfect Peach Pecan Bread Summer?
The real secret to the best peach pecan bread is using ripe peaches and lightly toasting your pecans before folding them into the batter. This combination ensures maximum flavor and texture in every slice. For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking’s ingredient guide.
Can I make Peach Pecan Bread Summer ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, as the cold can affect baking time. This is similar to how you might prepare pumpkin cinnamon rolls ahead of time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Peach Pecan Bread Summer?
Two common pitfalls are overmixing the batter, which leads to a tough bread, and using underripe peaches, which lack sweetness. Be gentle when mixing, and always opt for fragrant, slightly soft peaches for the best flavor. Understanding fruit ripeness is key, much like when preparing summer peach cake.
Best Ways to Serve Peach Pecan Bread Summer
This delightful bread is wonderful on its own, but I love pairing it with a few simple additions to make it a real treat. For a classic summer brunch, try serving a slice of this peach and pecan loaf recipe alongside a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. It also pairs beautifully with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. For a more savory contrast, a small side of Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be delicious. It’s truly versatile!
Nutrition Facts for Peach Pecan Bread Summer
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a serving of this delicious summer bread. It’s a delightful treat that balances sweetness with satisfying ingredients.
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients used in your homemade peach pecan bread.
How to Store and Reheat Peach Pecan Bread Summer
Keeping your delicious summer bread with peaches and nuts fresh is easy! Once the bread has completely cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. For reheating, you can gently warm a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or toast it in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This ensures you can enjoy the delightful flavors of peach and pecan bread anytime! Consider trying this with other fruit breads like apple zucchini bread.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peach Pecan Bread Summer
How do I ensure my Peach Pecan Bread Summer is moist?
The key to a moist loaf of homemade peach pecan bread lies in a few things: using ripe peaches, not overmixing the batter once the flour is added, and ensuring you don’t overbake it. The canola oil and milk also contribute significantly to that tender crumb. For more tips on achieving moist baked goods, you can consult resources on moist cake baking.
Can I substitute the peaches in this Peach Pecan Bread Summer?
While peaches are the star, you can absolutely experiment! Other stone fruits like plums or apricots would work well. You could also try using other berries, though they might release more liquid. Just ensure they are roughly the same quantity. If you love peaches, you might also enjoy our irresistible peach upside-down mini cakes.
What’s the best way to get a good glaze on my Peach Pecan Bread Summer?
For the perfect glaze, whisk the powdered sugar and milk together until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more milk; if it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar. Drizzle it over the bread only when it’s mostly cooled, not hot, so it sets nicely. This is similar to glazing lemon curd loaf cake.
Is this a good recipe for using up fresh summer peaches?
Definitely! This homemade peach pecan bread is designed to highlight the sweetness and texture of fresh, ripe summer peaches. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the bounty of the season in a delicious, comforting bake.
Variations of Peach Pecan Bread Summer You Can Try
While this classic recipe is fantastic, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up! Here are a few ideas to make your seasonal peach pecan bread even more exciting:
- Dietary Swap: For a gluten-free version, simply substitute a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. You might need to adjust the liquid content slightly, so start with a little less and add more if the batter seems too thick.
- Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warmer, spiced flavor. A little lemon zest can also brighten the peach flavor beautifully.
- Different Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try walnuts or almonds! Toasted almonds offer a lovely delicate crunch that pairs wonderfully with peaches.
- Muffin Magic: Don’t have time for a loaf? This batter is perfect for muffins! Spoon it into a greased muffin tin and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. This is a great alternative to classic zucchini muffins.
Peach Pecan Bread Summer: Easy & Delicious
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful summer treat combining the sweetness of ripe peaches with the satisfying crunch of pecans in a moist, easy-to-make loaf bread.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
- 2 large peaches, peeled, pitted, and cut into chunks
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Peel and cut up the peaches. Set aside and chop the pecans.
- In a large bowl stir together the sugar, milk, oil, and eggs.
- Now mix in the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Fold in the peaches and pecans until thoroughly blended.
- Spoon the batter into a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan or two smaller size half pans.
- Bake at 350 F for 50-60 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the loaf comes out clean.
- Allow it to cool for 20 minutes.
- In a small bowl whisk together the milk and powdered sugar.
- Drizzle over the cooled bread just before serving.
Notes
- Ensure that the peaches are ripe for the best flavor.
- Store any leftover bread in an airtight container.
- This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg