Summer Bread Recipe

To make a delicious summer bread, you’ll use fresh fruits for flavor. Here’s a simple recipe for Peach Quick Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a loaf pan. In a bowl, mix 1 cup sugar, ½ cup milk, ⅓ cup canola oil, 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla. In another bowl, combine 2 cups flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients with the wet ones, then fold in 1 cup chopped peaches. Pour into the pan and bake for 55-60 minutes. Stay tuned for more tasty variations and tips.

Key Takeaways

• Summer breads utilize fresh, ripe seasonal fruits like peaches and strawberries for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Quick breads are easy to prepare, requiring minimal mixing and no yeast, perfect for summer baking.
• Key ingredients include flour, sugar, eggs, and various fruits, ensuring delicious, moist results.
• Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 55-60 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick for best results.
• Consider adding a glaze or experimenting with shapes for festive summer presentations.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

When you try this summer bread recipe, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a favorite among home bakers. This recipe offers several health benefits, such as:

• Neutralizing anti-nutrients in grains.
• Breaking down gluten for easier digestion.
• Increasing vitamin and mineral content. Natural Leavening enhances the fermentation process, creating a more flavorful bread.

Its high fiber content improves digestion and helps prevent constipation.

Plus, sourdough’s low glycemic index means it regulates blood sugar levels effectively.

You’ll also appreciate the nutritional value, with more micronutrients and antioxidants than regular bread.

The recipe’s versatility allows you to experiment with minimal ingredients, making it adaptable to various dietary needs.

Moreover, the unique tangy flavor and texture add a delightful twist to your meals.

Recipe

Summer Bread Recipe

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the sweetness of fresh fruits and the refreshing tastes that warm weather brings. Quick breads are an excellent way to incorporate seasonal ingredients while keeping the baking process simple and enjoyable. Quick breads like Peach Bread are known for their moist texture and delightful flavor, making them ideal for summer gatherings.

Whether you choose to make Peach Quick Bread, Strawberry Lemonade Quick Bread, or a delightful Summer Ale Beer Bread, each recipe offers a unique flavor that captures the essence of summer. These breads are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a dessert, and they pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.

To get started, gather your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Quick breads are known for their ease of preparation, requiring minimal mixing and no yeast, which means you can whip up a delicious loaf in no time.

Let’s dive into the specific ingredients and steps needed to create your own summer bread masterpiece.

Ingredients

• Peach Quick Bread:
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
• 1/2 cup 2% milk (4 ounces)
• 1/2 cup canola oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (260 grams)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups diced fresh peaches
• Strawberry Lemonade Quick Bread:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
• 3/4 cup milk (180mL)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Juice of half of a lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
• Zest of one lemon
• Summer Ale Beer Bread:
• 16 ounces all-purpose flour (approximately 3 cups)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 4 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest, grated
• 1 12-ounce bottle Summer Ale beer
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for greasing the pan)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal after baking.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine your wet ingredients. For Peach Quick Bread, mix sugar, milk, canola oil, egg, and vanilla extract. For Strawberry Lemonade Quick Bread, combine melted butter, milk, egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. For Summer Ale Beer Bread, simply mix the melted butter with the beer.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. For Peach Quick Bread, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. For Strawberry Lemonade, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. For Summer Ale, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture for each recipe. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a light and fluffy texture. Fold in the diced peaches for the Peach Quick Bread, strawberries for the Strawberry Lemonade, or simply leave the Summer Ale Beer Bread as is.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or mostly clean. Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Extra Tips

When baking quick bread, using fresh, ripe fruits will enhance the flavor and texture of your bread. Ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.

If you want to add a glaze, you can mix powdered sugar with fruit juice or milk to drizzle over the warm bread. Remember to check for doneness with a toothpick, as oven temperatures can vary.

Enjoy your delicious summer bread with family and friends!

Final Thoughts

Exploring summer bread recipes opens up a world of delightful flavors and creative possibilities. You can experiment with ingredients like zucchini, seasonal tomatoes, and even fruits like oranges or dried cranberries. If you want a lighter option, try replacing oil with unsweetened applesauce. One delicious option is to incorporate coarsely grated zucchini into your bread for added moisture and flavor.

Baking outdoors is another fun twist; use a griddle or barbecue to keep your kitchen cool. Remember to manage your cooking temperatures to avoid overbaking. You can also create decorative breads shaped like the sun for summer celebrations. Pair your breads with fresh dips or spreads for a tasty treat. Finally, don’t forget to freeze any leftovers to enjoy later. Summer bread baking isn’t just delicious but also a chance to explore your culinary creativity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour for This Summer Bread?

Using gluten-free flour for your bread is like trading in a trusty steed for a sleek bicycle; it works, but you’ll need to adjust your approach. Experiment with xanthan gum and moisture for the best results.

How Long Does the Summer Bread Stay Fresh?

Fresh bread typically stays good for about three days at room temperature. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it; frozen bread can remain fresh for several months when stored properly.

Can I Add Fruits or Nuts to the Recipe?

You can definitely add fruits or nuts to your recipe! Just ensure you incorporate them carefully to maintain texture and flavor. Adjust quantities based on your preferences for the best results in your baking.

Is This Recipe Suitable for Beginners?

Yes, this recipe’s perfect for beginners! Its straightforward steps, simple ingredients, and clear instructions make it easy to follow. You’ll build essential skills while enjoying the process, setting you up for future baking success.

What Are Some Serving Suggestions for Summer Bread?

Did you know that over 70% of people enjoy bread with snacks? You can serve summer bread alongside fresh dips, as mini pizzas, or with sweet spreads for delightful, versatile options at your gatherings.