PEACHES & CREAM CHEESE LOAF

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

2/3 cup milk

1 cup fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced

Cream Cheese Glaze (optional):

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tbsp milk

Instructions:

Preparation Steps: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

The Base Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Creamy Texture: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Egg Incorporation: One at a time, add in the eggs, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Final Mixture: Gradually blend in the dry ingredients alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Fold in the fresh peaches gently.

Baking Time: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, evening out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Glaze (if using): While the loaf is cooling, prepare the cream cheese glaze by beating together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.

Indulge in the summer freshness of this Peachy Cream Cheese Delight Loaf and let it transport you to sunny orchards with every bite. It's an absolute treat for the senses and a delightful addition to any tea-time table or dessert spread. Enjoy!