Peach Pecan Bread

The Peach Pecan Bread is the embodiment of summer indulgence, moist, flavorful, and speckled with fresh, juicy peaches and crunchy toasted pecans. This quick bread recipe is perfect for brunches, tea-time, or a cozy dessert served warm with a pat of butter.

Inspired by Southern flavors and textures, this loaf has just the right balance of sweetness and nutty richness. It comes together with simple pantry staples yet delivers on depth of flavor and comfort. Make it during peach season for best results and share a slice (or two) with friends and family for that homemade-from-the-heart moment.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced fresh peaches

• 3/4 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

5. Stir in sour cream until fully incorporated.

6. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined—do not overmix.

7. Gently fold in the diced peaches and chopped pecans.

8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

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

10. Let the bread 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: 290 kcal | Servings: 10 slices

A Sweet Slice of Southern Comfort: Peach Pecan Bread

Few things evoke the warmth of a Southern kitchen like a loaf of fresh-baked bread that’s rich, buttery, and studded with seasonal fruits and nuts. Peach Pecan Bread is one such recipe, unassuming yet delightful, rustic yet refined. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat for breakfast, a sweet side to go with your afternoon tea, or a show-stopping bake to share with friends and family, this moist peach-studded quick bread hits all the right notes.

With sweet, juicy peaches nestled into a tender crumb and the nutty crunch of toasted pecans adding depth, it’s easy to see why this loaf has been a family favorite in Southern homes for generations. What’s even better? It’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, and it stores beautifully.

Let’s dive deep into why this Peach Pecan Bread deserves a permanent place in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Peach Pecan Bread

1. It’s a celebration of seasonal produce.
Peaches are summer’s sweetheart fruit. Their natural sweetness, juiciness, and bright aroma bring a sense of joy to everything from cobblers to compotes. In this recipe, they shine as the main ingredient, breaking through each slice with their luscious texture and sunshine-kissed flavor.

2. It combines texture and taste beautifully.
While the peaches offer sweetness and moisture, the pecans bring a delightful crunch and nutty warmth. Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their flavor even further, adding a richness that complements the fruit and batter perfectly.

3. It’s versatile.
This loaf works just as well as a breakfast option with coffee or tea as it does as a sweet afternoon snack. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey and it easily transforms into a comforting dessert. You can even toast a slice and top with cream cheese for a decadent brunch bite.

4. It’s simple yet impressive.
The recipe requires no fancy equipment or advanced techniques, but the result is bakery-level flavor and texture. Even novice bakers can create something that looks and tastes like it came from Grandma’s prized recipe box.

The Magic of Peaches in Baking

Peaches are unique in that they hold their shape when baked yet release just enough juice to infuse the surrounding batter with flavor. Their high sugar content caramelizes slightly as they bake, enhancing the sweetness of the bread without needing to overload it with sugar. This makes the Peach Pecan Bread naturally flavorful and rich without being cloyingly sweet.

Fresh peaches are best for this recipe, especially when they’re in season and perfectly ripe. However, you can also use canned peaches in a pinch, just be sure to drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

To peel fresh peaches easily, score the bottom of each peach with an “X,” blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. The skins will slip right off.

Let’s Talk Pecans

No Southern dessert would be complete without a mention of pecans. Native to North America and a staple in Southern cuisine, pecans bring a soft crunch and buttery, slightly sweet flavor to baked goods. They balance the tender, fruit-heavy batter of this bread with their hearty texture and richness.

You can chop the pecans coarsely or finely, depending on your preference. For maximum flavor, toast them lightly in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes before adding them to the batter. Just be sure not to over-toast, as pecans can burn quickly due to their natural oils.

Add Your Own Twist

One of the best parts of this Peach Pecan Bread recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add warm spices. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg will add a lovely depth and warmth, making the bread feel even more comforting.

• Include a glaze. For a slightly fancier presentation, drizzle a simple vanilla or brown sugar glaze over the cooled loaf. It adds sweetness and visual appeal.

• Make it dairy-free. Substitute the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free sour cream or plain yogurt.

• Swap in different fruits. Try mixing in other stone fruits like nectarines or apricots for a unique flavor twist.

• Make muffins. Turn this batter into individual muffins for a grab-and-go breakfast or bake sale treat.

Perfect Pairings for Peach Pecan Bread

If you’re planning to serve this bread to guests or for a special occasion, here are a few ideas to complete the meal or make the most of the flavor experience:

• Beverages: This bread pairs beautifully with black tea, chai, or even iced coffee. For a more indulgent pairing, serve with a sweet dessert wine or spiced cider.

• Spreads & Toppings: Try a pat of honey butter, whipped cream cheese, or a spoonful of peach preserves for a flavor boost.

• Sides: Serve alongside fresh fruit salad, vanilla yogurt, or scrambled eggs for a full brunch spread.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Peach Pecan Bread stores very well, making it ideal for meal prep or gifting.

• Room Temperature: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerator: Store for up to a week in the fridge, wrapped tightly in plastic or foil to maintain moisture.

• Freezer: To freeze, wrap the loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and then foil. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.

Pro tip: Toasting a frozen slice directly in the oven or toaster brings it back to life and adds a lovely crunch to the edges.

A Loaf Worth Sharing

There’s something inherently heartwarming about sharing a loaf of homemade bread. It’s the kind of gift that feels personal, thoughtful, and deliciously comforting. Bake a double batch of Peach Pecan Bread and wrap one in parchment paper tied with twine for a hostess gift, teacher thank-you, or neighborly surprise.

This loaf also makes a great addition to potlucks, book club brunches, or weekend bake sales. It slices beautifully and holds its shape, making it easy to transport and serve.

Conclusion

Peach Pecan Bread isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory in the making. It’s the smell of summer mornings in the kitchen, the comfort of homemade flavor, and the joy of sharing something special with the people you love. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary adventures, this bread is as satisfying to bake as it is to eat.

So the next time you have ripe peaches on hand and want to create something that feels both homey and impressive, reach for this recipe. Let the aroma fill your home, slice into the golden crumb, and enjoy the sweet, nutty goodness that only a homemade loaf like this can offer.

Happy baking!