If you are looking for a delightful treat that bursts with sweet, juicy flavors of fresh fruit, this Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, moist cake infused with ripe strawberries and succulent peaches in every bite, making it perfect for a sunny afternoon snack or an impressive dessert to share. This loaf cake brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels light, vibrant, and utterly inviting, creating a charming dessert that feels like a breath of fresh air on your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe is wonderfully straightforward because each ingredient plays an essential role in building its unique harmony of texture and flavor. From the tender crumb provided by the flour and yogurt to the natural fruit sweetness that brightens every slice, each item in the list contributes something special.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that ensures a tender yet sturdy loaf perfect for holding juicy fruit pieces.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, making it light and fluffy rather than dense.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a lovely lift and keeps the texture soft and moist.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Brings a gentle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the fruit.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together, giving structure and tenderness.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Provides moistness and a subtle tang to brighten the loaf’s flavor.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and light.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth with fragrant warmth that complements the fruit.
- 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries: Bursting with juicy sweetness, they are the star alongside peaches.
- 1/2 cup diced fresh peaches (peeled): Adds a delicate, fragrant freshness and tender bite to every slice.
- 1 tablespoon flour (for tossing fruit): Prevents fruit from sinking to the bottom during baking for an even distribution.
- Optional glaze – 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoons peach juice or milk: A sweet, light drizzle that adds flair and extra fruity brightness on top.
How to Make Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking. This step is crucial to achieve a beautiful, clean loaf shape for serving.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures your loaf has an even rise and consistent texture throughout.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This process helps to incorporate air, which will make your loaf light instead of dense.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, blending each fully before adding the next. Then stir in the Greek yogurt or sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and creamy. This combination gives your cake its moist, tender crumb with a touch of tang.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep your cake tender and prevent it from becoming tough.
Step 6: Prepare Fruit and Fold It In
In a small bowl, toss the diced strawberries and peaches with the tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking during baking. Gently fold the floured fruit into the batter, distributing it evenly without breaking up the fruit.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After removing from the oven, allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Optional Glaze
Once the loaf is cool, whisk together powdered sugar with peach juice or milk to form a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the top to add a glossy, sweet finish that enhances the fruity aroma.
How to Serve Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves instantly elevate the presentation, making the loaf look as delightful as it tastes. You can also add extra sliced strawberries and peach wedges on the side for a fresh contrast.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or a refreshing glass of iced lemonade. For a brunch spread, try serving it alongside creamy yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the fruity sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the loaf into thick pieces, then toast them lightly and spread with honey butter for a warm, comforting treat. Alternatively, cut it into small cubes and thread onto skewers with berries and mint for a fun dessert kebab that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This keeps the cake moist and preserves the fresh fruit flavors perfectly.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the loaf later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing in the freezer. It will keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring back the freshness of this loaf, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until warm. You can also toast slices lightly to revive the fruity aroma and give a slight crispness to the edges.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries and peaches for this loaf cake?
Yes, frozen fruit works well but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before tossing in flour and folding into the batter to avoid excess moisture.
Is it possible to make this loaf cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that measures cup-for-cup to keep the loaf’s texture just right.
Can I add spices to the loaf for extra flavor?
Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg blends beautifully with the strawberry and peach flavors, adding warm depth without overpowering the fruit.
How do I know when the loaf cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs but no raw batter. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven.
Can I make this loaf cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based yogurt and milk alternative to keep it moist and flavorful while accommodating dairy-free diets.
Final Thoughts
This Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite seasonal delights because it combines the simplicity of classic baking with the irresistible freshness of summer fruit. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate those sweet moments with friends and family or enjoy a slice of sunshine on your own. I encourage you to give it a try—baking this loaf is as joyful as eating it!
Print
Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake is a delightful summer treat combining juicy fresh strawberries and peaches in a moist, fluffy quick bread. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this cake features a tender crumb with a hint of vanilla and a light optional glaze for extra sweetness. It’s simple to prepare, baked to golden perfection, and ideal for any occasion that calls for a fruity, homemade baked good.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon flour (for tossing fruit)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit
- 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup diced fresh peaches (peeled)
Optional Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons peach juice or milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes, which helps incorporate air into the batter for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Dairy: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Then mix in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), milk, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and homogeneous.
- Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in a tough loaf.
- Prepare the Fruit: In a small bowl, toss the diced fresh strawberries and peaches with 1 tablespoon of flour. This coating prevents the fruit from sinking to the bottom during baking.
- Fold Fruit into Batter: Gently fold the floured fruit into the batter with a spatula, being careful not to overmix to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Loaf: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.
- Prepare Optional Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar with peach juice or milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and shine.
Notes
- Frozen fruit can be used instead of fresh, but make sure to thaw and drain well before mixing to avoid excess moisture affecting the batter.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spicy twist that complements the fruit beautifully.
- This loaf stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when wrapped tightly or stored in an airtight container.
