Peach Pecan Bread

This Peach Pecan Bread combines the tender sweetness of ripe peaches with the rich, nutty crunch of pecans, all wrapped in a soft, moist loaf infused with cinnamon spice. Each slice offers a delightful balance of fruity freshness and comforting warmth, making it the perfect bake for both summer and autumn.

Whether served warm with a pat of butter or enjoyed at room temperature, this bread shines as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a thoughtful homemade gift. Its inviting aroma fills the kitchen, drawing everyone to the table before it’s even cooled. Easy to prepare and beautifully simple, this loaf is sure to become a seasonal baking favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced

• 1 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

3. In another bowl, beat eggs lightly, then whisk in vegetable oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Gently fold wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Add diced peaches and chopped pecans, folding them evenly into the batter.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.

7. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 10 slices

Peach Pecan Bread – A Sweet Slice of Comfort

Peach Pecan Bread is one of those timeless comfort bakes that instantly transports you to a cozy kitchen, filled with the warm scent of cinnamon and sweet fruit. It’s more than just a quick bread, it’s a loaf that celebrates the natural sweetness of ripe peaches paired with the buttery crunch of pecans. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, this bread has a way of making moments feel special.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques, just a mixing bowl, a spoon, and your oven. The result is a perfectly moist loaf with chunks of juicy peaches and earthy pecans in every bite. Each slice feels like a hug in edible form, making it ideal for both everyday indulgence and celebratory occasions.

A Little History Behind Fruit and Nut Breads

Fruit and nut breads have been around for centuries, appearing in different forms across cultures. From the British tea loaf to the Italian panettone, the concept is universal, combining seasonal fruits and hearty nuts into a loaf that can be enjoyed with tea, coffee, or as a standalone snack.

In the American South, peaches and pecans are deeply rooted in culinary traditions. Georgia is famously known as “The Peach State,” while pecans have been cultivated in the region for hundreds of years. Pairing these two local treasures in a quick bread is a natural choice, and it reflects the Southern love for simple yet flavorful home baking.

Peach Pecan Bread is often associated with summer, when peaches are at their peak, but thanks to modern preservation methods, you can make it year-round. Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned peaches, the result is equally delightful.

Why This Recipe Works

This bread’s success comes down to balance, in texture, flavor, and sweetness. The diced peaches release a little juice as they bake, creating a soft and tender crumb. Pecans add a lovely crunch and a toasty depth that prevents the bread from being overly sweet. The cinnamon ties everything together, giving the loaf a warm, cozy note.

The oil and sour cream in the batter keep the bread moist for days, while the eggs add structure. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet still works as a breakfast option, especially when paired with coffee or tea.

Choosing the Right Peaches

For the best results, opt for peaches that are ripe but still firm to the touch. Overly soft peaches may release too much moisture, which can make the loaf dense. If you can’t get fresh peaches, frozen peaches are a great alternative, just thaw and drain them before using. Canned peaches work too, but make sure to drain them well and pat them dry to avoid excess liquid.

If you want a more pronounced peach flavor, you can add a teaspoon of peach extract to the batter or stir in a spoonful of peach preserves.

The Role of Pecans in Flavor and Texture

Pecans are a true Southern staple, loved for their buttery, slightly sweet flavor. In this bread, they add a pleasant crunch that complements the softness of the peaches. Toasting pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and gives the bread a subtle nutty aroma.

If pecans aren’t your favorite or you have an allergy to consider, walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts can be substituted. For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and add a few extra peach chunks for texture.

Tips for the Perfect Loaf

• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing too much flour into the measuring cup.

• Don’t overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to keep the bread tender.

• Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures vary, start checking the loaf 5 minutes before the suggested bake time ends. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

• Cool completely before slicing: Cutting into the bread too early can cause it to crumble.

Flavor Variations to Try

While the classic Peach Pecan Bread is hard to beat, there’s room to get creative:

1. Peach Almond Loaf – Replace pecans with sliced almonds and add a splash of almond extract.

2. Peach Coconut Bread – Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

3. Spiced Peach Bread – Add nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom for a warmly spiced loaf.

4. Peach Cream Cheese Swirl Bread – Swirl sweetened cream cheese through the batter for extra richness.

5. Glazed Peach Bread – Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of vanilla.

Serving Suggestions

Peach Pecan Bread is versatile enough to be enjoyed in many ways:

• Breakfast Treat: Serve a warm slice with a pat of butter or cream cheese.

• Afternoon Snack: Pair with iced tea or coffee for a refreshing break.

• Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

• Brunch Table Addition: Serve alongside other pastries, fresh fruit, and savory bites.

• Gift Giving: Wrap a cooled loaf in parchment paper, tie with twine, and add a handwritten tag.

Storing and Freezing Tips

One of the best things about this bread is how well it stores. Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container, Peach Pecan Bread will stay moist at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

It also freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. You can also freeze individual slices for quick grab-and-go snacks.

Healthier Baking Options

If you’re looking to make a lighter version of this bread, there are several swaps you can try:

• Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein.

• Reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup and add a bit more cinnamon for natural sweetness.

• Substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce for fewer calories and more moisture.

These changes will slightly alter the texture but still produce a delicious loaf.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: No special skills or tools required.

• Year-round appeal: Works with fresh, frozen, or canned peaches.

• Perfect balance: Sweet fruit, crunchy nuts, and warm spice in every bite.

• Versatile: Works as breakfast, snack, or dessert.

• Freezer-friendly: Make ahead for busy weeks or special occasions.

Conclusion

Peach Pecan Bread is the kind of recipe that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With its moist crumb, sweet bursts of peach, and the nutty crunch of pecans, it brings together the best flavors of the season in one loaf. It’s simple enough for a weekday bake yet special enough to serve guests or give as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven with a pat of butter, as part of a holiday brunch, or packed in a lunchbox, this bread is sure to bring smiles with every slice. Once you’ve made it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again, because some recipes aren’t just baked, they’re cherished.