Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe
There are few things as joyfully indulgent as the Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe—a comforting, golden loaf that perfectly marries the luscious sweetness of peaches with the creamy tang of cream cheese. Every bite feels like summer, whether you’re slicing into it at breakfast with a piping hot mug of coffee or treating yourself to an afternoon snack. Tender, moist, and bursting with juicy fruit, this loaf brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia—and trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll find yourself baking it again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients list for this Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each one has a role to play, creating depth of flavor, dreamy texture, and that lovely, sun-kissed color that makes this loaf so special. Don’t skip anything—every addition really counts here!
- All-purpose flour: Supplies structure and stability while keeping the loaf beautifully tender.
- Baking powder: Gives the loaf a gentle rise and light texture.
- Baking soda: Balances acidity and ensures a moist crumb.
- Salt: Just a pinch wakes up all the other flavors in the batter.
- Unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and a fantastic, melt-in-your-mouth quality—make sure it’s truly softened for easy creaming.
- Cream cheese, softened (4 ounces): Adds luxurious tang and moisture—the heart of the “cream” in this recipe.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens everything just enough to highlight the peaches without overwhelming them.
- Large eggs: Bind the batter and add structure—bring them to room temperature for best results.
- Vanilla extract: Lends a mellow, aromatic sweetness that beautifully complements the fruit.
- Almond extract (optional): Just a hint gives the loaf an instantly memorable, bakery-shop flavor.
- Sour cream: Guarantees a super-moist, ultra-tender crumb—a little secret behind the loaf’s amazing texture!
- Fresh or canned peaches, diced (1 cup): The star of the show—juicy, sun-ripened, and simply irresistible. Be sure to drain well if using canned.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon, for peaches): A quick toss keeps the fruit from sinking to the bottom while baking.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for glaze): Sifted over the top or whisked with liquid, it turns the loaf into an occasion.
- Peach juice or milk (1–2 tablespoons, for glaze): Blends with the sugar for a quick, dazzling drizzle.
How to Make Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your batter is. Take a moment to grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan—either with baking spray or a swipe of butter—to ensure a smooth release later and keep those golden edges intact.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This aerates the mixture and ensures the leaveners are evenly distributed, which leads to a perfectly even rise in your finished loaf.
Step 3: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese with the sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step introduces air, which helps make the loaf light while letting that dreamy cream cheese flavor soak through every bite.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and, if desired, that magical splash of almond extract. These will infuse the loaf with sweetness and a hint of warmth that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Stir in Sour Cream
Mix in the sour cream until your batter becomes wonderfully smooth and creamy. This is the moment where you’ll start to see just how rich and silky your Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe batter will be!
Step 6: Prep and Add the Peaches
Toss your diced peaches with 1 tablespoon of flour—this helps them stay perfectly distributed throughout the loaf instead of sinking. Gently fold them into the batter, taking care not to over-mix and keeping as many peach chunks intact as possible.
Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry, and Fill the Pan
Add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir with a spatula just until combined; a few streaks of flour are okay. Smooth the luscious batter into your prepared loaf pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed for an even bake.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling—this prevents the loaf from steaming and ensures the texture is just right.
Step 9: Make and Add the Glaze (Optional)
Whisk together the powdered sugar with the peach juice or milk until it’s smooth and pourable. Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle this glossy glaze over the top. It turns your Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe into an absolute showstopper!
How to Serve Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
Dress up your loaf with a shower of fresh peach slices, a scattering of chopped toasted almonds, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. If you’re feeling extra, a swirl of whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt is enough to turn a simple slice into an event.
Side Dishes
While the Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe can easily stand alone, it’s even more heavenly beside a mug of strong coffee or a tall glass of iced tea for brunch. For a fancier affair, serve it with a fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut thick, generous slices for breakfast, or dice into cubes and serve as part of a festive dessert platter. Mini loaves or muffins transform this classic into adorable party treats, and if you’re gifting, wrap slices in parchment and tie with baker’s twine for a rustic, heartfelt touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and delicious for up to four days, so you can sneak a slice anytime the craving hits!
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the fully cooled loaf (or individual slices) in a layer of plastic wrap, then foil. Store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and it’ll be just as moist and tender as the day you baked it.
Reheating
For the best flavor, let refrigerated slices come to room temperature, or warm gently in the microwave for a few seconds. A quick toast in a buttered skillet revives that glorious just-baked aroma and gives the outside a crisp edge that’s completely irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh or canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen peaches completely and pat them dry before adding—this prevents excess moisture from making the loaf soggy and ensures those sweet pockets of fruit taste as good as possible.
What’s the best way to get the loaf out of the pan cleanly?
Line your loaf pan with parchment paper and leave an overhang on the sides; this lets you lift out the Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe without any sticking or breaking. A buttered pan works well too, especially if you’re patient about letting the loaf cool slightly before turning it out.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Double-check that your baking powder and other add-ins are gluten-free, and you’re all set for a celiac-friendly treat.
Is the almond extract necessary?
Not at all, but it does add an unforgettable, subtle flavor that pairs gorgeously with the peaches and cream cheese. If you’re not a fan or don’t have any, feel free to leave it out—the loaf will still be delicious.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt is an easy substitute; it provides the same moisture and subtle tang. This swap won’t noticeably change the texture or flavor, so use what you have on hand!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that promises joy in every bite, this Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe never lets you down. It’s as comforting as it is impressive, perfect for sharing or indulging solo. Give it a try, and I have a feeling you’ll soon be sharing this new favorite with everyone you know!
Print
Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet peaches and creamy cheese in this moist and flavorful Peaches and Cream Cheese Loaf. Perfect for breakfast or as a dessert, this loaf is easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- ½ cup sour cream
Additional:
- 1 cup diced fresh or canned peaches (drained if using canned)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for tossing peaches)
- Optional glaze: ½ cup powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoons peach juice or milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla and almond extract. Mix in the sour cream until smooth.
- Prepare peaches: Toss the diced peaches with 1 tablespoon flour, then gently fold them into the batter.
- Combine ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Pour the batter into the loaf pan.
- Bake: Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and glaze: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and peach juice or milk, then drizzle over the loaf before serving.
Notes
- This loaf keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- You can use frozen peaches — just thaw and pat them dry before adding.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
