Warm Spiced Peach Loaf with Cinnamon and Nutmeg: A Cozy, Aromatic Delight

Warm Spiced Peach Loaf with Cinnamon and Nutmeg is a perfect treat for cozy mornings, afternoon snacks, or even as a dessert to share with family and friends. This moist, flavorful loaf combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with the warming spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a comforting treat that feels like a hug in every bite. The spiced aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes, and the result is a golden, soft loaf that pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This peach loaf is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall while celebrating the bright sweetness of peaches. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg gives it a lovely spiced warmth, making it a go-to for cozy moments. Whether you use fresh or frozen peaches, the result is a rich and moist loaf with a deliciously spiced crumb. The subtle sweetness of the peaches pairs beautifully with the warm spices, and the loaf’s texture is perfect for slicing and serving. It’s a great way to enjoy fruit in a baked good and will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen peaches, diced
1 tablespoon flour (for coating peaches)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

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.
Prepare the peaches: If using fresh peaches, peel, pit, and dice them into small pieces. Toss the diced peaches in a tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking. Set aside.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step.
Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream or yogurt. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the peaches and nuts: Gently fold in the floured peaches and nuts (if using) into the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of the loaf.
Transfer to the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the top with brown sugar if desired, for a sweet, caramelized finish.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent the loaf with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Cool: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve: Slice and enjoy this warm, spiced peach loaf with your favorite beverage or as a standalone treat!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 slices
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60-70 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Fruit variations: Swap the peaches for other fruits like pears, apples, or even a mix of berries for a different flavor profile.
Vegan version: Replace the butter with vegan butter, and use flax eggs or another egg replacement. Substitute dairy sour cream with coconut or almond yogurt.
Spicy twist: Add ground ginger or a pinch of allspice for an extra layer of spice to the loaf.
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Chocolate peach loaf: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist on the classic.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also store it in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.
Freezing: You can freeze this loaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, microwave individual pieces for about 20-30 seconds, or reheat the entire loaf in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, canned peaches can be used in place of fresh peaches. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make this loaf without nuts?

Absolutely! You can skip the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version. The loaf will still be delicious without them.

3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It will add a little tang and extra creaminess to the loaf.

4. Can I make this loaf gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend for this recipe. Just make sure the other ingredients (like baking powder and soda) are also gluten-free, and be aware that the texture may vary slightly.

5. How do I know when the loaf is done?

To test for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it, the loaf is done.

6. Can I use frozen peaches?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just be sure to thaw and drain them to remove excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

7. How can I make this loaf more moist?

If you want a moister loaf, you can add a tablespoon of milk or extra yogurt to the batter, or even replace some of the flour with a mashed banana or applesauce.

8. Can I use other spices besides cinnamon and nutmeg?

Yes, you can use other warming spices like ginger, allspice, or cloves to give the loaf a different flavor. You can also experiment with vanilla bean paste for a more intense vanilla flavor.

9. How should I store leftover loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze it for future enjoyment.

10. Can I add a glaze on top of the loaf?

Yes, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of vanilla can be drizzled over the top for an added sweetness and shine.

Conclusion

Warm Spiced Peach Loaf with Cinnamon and Nutmeg is the ultimate comforting dessert or snack, perfect for enjoying with a hot beverage or sharing with loved ones. The soft, moist crumb, combined with the sweetness of peaches and the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a flavor that is both nostalgic and inviting. Whether you’re baking it for yourself or to share, this spiced loaf will be a delightful addition to any occasion. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, or savor it the next day—it’s a treat that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Warm Spiced Peach Loaf with Cinnamon and Nutmeg