Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf

Introduction
Soft, moist, and bursting with sweet fruit flavor, this Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf is the perfect balance of freshness and indulgence. Juicy peaches paired with a rich, creamy swirl of cream cheese create a bakery-style loaf that’s ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat with coffee or tea. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, this loaf fills your kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma as it bakes. Whether you’re using fresh peaches in season or canned ones year-round, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let’s get started on this irresistible loaf!

Ingredients
To make Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf, you’ll need:

For the loaf:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced peaches (fresh or canned, well drained)

For the cream cheese swirl:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg yolk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients work together to create a tender loaf with a creamy, lightly sweet swirl throughout.

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
5. Gently fold in the diced peaches.
6. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth.
7. Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan.
8. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over the batter.
9. Repeat with remaining batter and cream cheese mixture.
10. Swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
11. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
12. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

– Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
– Substitute peaches with nectarines or apricots.
– Sprinkle streusel topping for extra crunch.
– Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds.
– Drizzle with vanilla glaze once cooled.

Tips

– Drain peaches well to prevent excess moisture.
– Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
– Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth swirl.
– Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days due to the cream cheese.

Conclusion
Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf is a delightful baked treat that combines fruity sweetness with rich creaminess in every slice. Perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week, this loaf feels special yet comforting at the same time. With its moist texture and beautiful swirl, it’s a recipe that looks as good as it tastes. One bite, and it’s sure to earn a permanent place in your baking rotation.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned peaches?
   Yes, just be sure to drain them thoroughly before using.
2. Can I freeze this loaf?
   Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
3. How do I know when it’s done baking?
   A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
4. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, but full-fat gives the best texture and flavor.
5. Should this loaf be refrigerated?
   Yes, due to the cream cheese swirl, refrigeration is recommended.