Introduction
This Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf is a delicious, tender bread that combines the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with the rich creaminess of cream cheese. It is great for the morning meal, late lunch or for a bite during the late afternoon.
The loaf is moist, flavorful, and simple to make, showcasing a delightful combination of fruit and cheese that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
For the loaf:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
For the cream cheese layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Prepare the oven and pan:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or better line it with parchment paper for easy un-moulding later on.
Make the cream cheese layer:
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
Mix the dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined.
Make the batter:
In another bowl, cream the butter with sugar until well light in color and fluffy consistency is achieved. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition.Mix in the vanilla extract.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream. Gently fold in the chopped peaches.
Assemble the loaf:
The loaf pan prepared earlier is now filled with half of the batter. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter, then top with the remaining batter.
Bake:
Bake for 55 To 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of the loaf pan comes out clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes and then remove and place on a wire rack to allow complete cooling.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Serve warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or with a dusting of powdered sugar on top.
Storage: It can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 3 days maximum period. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips for Success
Use ripe peaches: The riper the peaches, the sweeter and more flavorful the loaf will be.
Do not overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the loaf too heavy.Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Cream cheese should be softened: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
Check for doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the loaf around 55 minutes. If the top becomes brown very quickly, then loose foil can be used to cover it.
Health Benefits
Peaches: Rich in vitamins A and C, peaches are beneficial for skin health and immune support. They also provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
Cream Cheese: It has calcium which is good for maintaining healthy bones.
Although it’s higher in fat, it adds a rich texture and flavor to baked goods.
Moderate Sugars: This recipe uses a modest amount of sugar compared to many desserts, and the natural sweetness of the peaches can help reduce the need for additional sugar.
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 slices)
Calories: 240
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 160mg
Total Carbohydrate: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 4g
Variations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free: Substitutes the amount of the all-Purpose flour called in the recipe with a 1:1 gluten free flour blend of your choice.
Low-Sugar: Substitute half the sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Add Nuts: Mix in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Different Fruits: Try substituting the peaches with other fruits such as nectarines, apricots, or even berries for a unique twist.
Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes, thaw the peaches and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the batter.
What is the best way to know when the loaf is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, that means it is completely done.
Bake for some extra minutes if it has wet batter on it.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the loaf may not be as rich and creamy.
What should I do to avoid the loaf from being very thick?
Make sure not to overmix the batter, as this can cause the loaf to become dense. Fold in the dry ingredients gently.
Conclusion
This Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round. With its tender crumb, creamy filling, and bursts of juicy peaches, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or sharing it with friends, this loaf is sure to impress. Give it a try and make this delicious recipe part of your baking repertoire!