Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf is a tender, fruity loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. The juicy peaches combined with the creamy cream cheese create a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf. This easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a favorite, especially during peach season.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Loaf
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup diced fresh or canned peaches (drained well if using canned)
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Loaf Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced peaches.
Step 4: Assemble the Loaf
- Pour half of the loaf batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter, spreading it evenly.
- Add the remaining loaf batter on top, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice and serve the loaf at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Cooking Notes
- Peaches: If using fresh peaches, be sure they are ripe but firm to prevent the loaf from becoming too soggy. If using canned peaches, drain them well before adding to the batter.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: The cream cheese swirl adds a rich, creamy texture to the loaf. Be sure to spread it evenly for a nice marbled effect.
- Loaf Pan: Lining the loaf pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the loaf out once it’s baked and cooled.
Variations
Peach & Almond Loaf
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the batter and sprinkle 1/4 cup of sliced almonds on top before baking for a nutty twist.
Blueberry Peaches & Cream Loaf
- Fold in 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries along with the diced peaches for a burst of berry flavor.
Cinnamon Streusel Topping
- Make a quick streusel topping by combining 1/4 cup flour, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons cold butter. Sprinkle over the loaf before baking for added crunch and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Frozen Peaches?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter. Pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.
How Should I Store This Loaf?
Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you prefer, but the texture might be slightly less rich and creamy.
Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf is a delicious, moist, and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cream cheese swirl and juicy peaches, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try out different variations to make it your own, and enjoy every sweet bite of this delightful loaf.
Happy baking, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of peaches and cream cheese!
