Peach Cake

Peach Cake

There’s something magical about summer, especially when it comes to baking with the freshest fruits. One of my all-time favorite treats is Peach Cake. I still remember the first time I took a bite of this dessert at a neighbor’s picnic. The warm, tender cake paired with juicy, ripe peaches was pure bliss. Ever since then, I’ve made it a summer tradition to whip up this delightful cake whenever peaches are in season.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
290 kcal
Protein:
3 g
Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
Fat:
12 g
Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Peeler, Whisk, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

What You’ll Enjoy About This Peach Cake

Why do I love this Peach Cake? Let me share a few reasons:

1. Freshness of Ingredients

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the fresh peaches. Their natural sweetness shines through and adds a juicy burst of flavor to each bite. Using ripe, in-season peaches truly elevates this cake, making it a delicious treat that you can savor.

2. Perfectly Moist Texture

This recipe guarantees a moist and tender cake, thanks to the combination of buttermilk and butter. The buttermilk not only provides acidity but also keeps the cake soft. It’s one of those cakes that stays fresh for days, if it lasts that long!

3. Simple to Make

If you’re looking for an easy summer dessert, look no further! The Peach Cake comes together quickly, and you don’t need any fancy equipment. Just a mixing bowl and a whisk will do the job. Perfect for when friends drop by unexpectedly or when you’re craving something sweet!

4. Versatile Serving Options

This cake is incredibly versatile. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream, as a light dessert after dinner, or even as a sweet breakfast treat, it never disappoints. You can also dress it up with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream.

5. Nostalgic Taste of Summer

Every bite of this Peach Cake takes me back to summers spent lounging in the backyard, surrounded by family and laughter. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings back heartwarming memories.

Ingredient List for Peach Cake

Peach Cake

In this Peach Cake, each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. The foundation of the cake is built on simple pantry staples, while the fresh peaches add a vibrant touch. Let’s dive into the ingredients that bring this cake to life!

  • Butter: ⅔ cup softened butter gives the cake a rich flavor and moisture.
  • Brown Sugar: 1½ cups of packed brown sugar add a deep sweetness, complimenting the peaches.
  • Eggs: 2 large eggs provide structure and stability to the cake.
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and aroma.
  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups of all-purpose flour create the cake’s base, giving it the necessary structure.
  • Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon of baking soda acts as the leavening agent, making the cake rise.
  • Salt: ⅛ teaspoon of salt balances the sweetness.
  • Buttermilk: 1 cup of buttermilk adds tanginess and keeps the cake moist.
  • Fresh Peaches: 3 cups of chopped fresh peaches are the star of the show, offering a sweet and juicy burst.
  • Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup of granulated sugar is used for sprinkling on top.
  • Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon of cinnamon adds warmth and enhances the flavors.

How to Make Peach Cake

Peach Cake

Let’s get started on making this scrumptious Peach Cake. This process is straightforward and incredibly satisfying, especially as the aroma fills your kitchen!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This is crucial as it ensures even baking. While your oven heats up, take a moment to lightly spray a 9-inch by 13-inch pan with non-stick spray and set it aside.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ⅔ cup of softened butter and 1½ cups of packed brown sugar. Beat them together with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for incorporating air into the batter, which helps the cake rise beautifully.

  3. Next, add in the 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat again until fully combined. You’ll notice a lovely creamy texture forming.

  4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture will help to evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout the cake batter.

  5. Now, gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk. Start with the flour, followed by some buttermilk, mixing until smooth after each addition. This alternating method keeps the batter from becoming too thick and ensures everything combines well.

  6. Once you have a smooth batter, gently fold in the 3 cups of chopped fresh peaches using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the peaches intact and evenly distributed throughout the batter.

  7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. It should fill the pan nicely. Make sure to smooth the top for an even bake.

  8. In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake batter. This will create a lovely sweet crust as the cake bakes.

  9. Now, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 38 to 45 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready! Keep in mind that metal pans may require less baking time than glass.

  10. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of summer captured in this Peach Cake.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Freshness is Key: Always use ripe, fresh peaches for the best flavor. Look for peaches that yield slightly to pressure.
  • Mixing Method: Be careful not to overmix the batter; this can lead to a dense cake. Mix just enough for everything to come together.
  • Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
  • Variations: Feel free to add nuts or other fruits to the batter for added texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations about Peach Cake

Peach Cake

If you want to switch things up, here are some fun variations for your Peach Cake!

  • Add Nuts: Incorporating chopped pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor profile.
  • Use Other Fruits: This recipe isn’t limited to peaches. Try substituting with ripe plums or cherries for a different twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Frosting: Consider adding a light cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert experience.
  • Layer Cake: If you’re feeling ambitious, bake the batter in two round pans and layer with whipped cream or frosting.
  • Storage: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Freezing: You can freeze this cake! Just wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to three months.

Serve This Peach Cake With

When it comes to serving your Peach Cake, the possibilities are endless!

  • Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream is a classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful dessert, serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad on the side enhances the summer vibes and adds freshness.
  • Tea or Coffee: This cake makes for a lovely afternoon treat with a cup of tea or coffee.
  • Picnic Treat: It’s the ideal dessert for picnics or summer gatherings; it travels well and is sure to impress.
  • Breakfast Delight: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat with a hot cup of coffee on a lazy summer morning.

FAQ

Peach Cake sets itself apart with its delightful use of fresh peaches. While many cakes focus on chocolate or vanilla flavors, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness and juiciness of peaches. The addition of buttermilk also enhances the cake’s moisture, making it exceptionally tender. Unlike other cakes, this dessert captures the essence of summer and is perfect for warm weather gatherings.

While fresh peaches are recommended for their flavor and texture, you can use canned peaches in a pinch. Just ensure they are well-drained and not overly sweetened. Keep in mind that using canned peaches might alter the final texture of the cake, making it slightly wetter. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and you should still get a delicious result!

The best way to check if your Peach Cake is done is by using the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Another sign of doneness is a golden brown top and a slight springiness when gently pressed. Bake until you achieve these indicators for the perfect cake.

Absolutely! One of the great things about Peach Cake is that it can be baked ahead of time. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it well to maintain its moisture and flavor. When ready to serve, allow it to thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

Conclusion

This Peach Cake is a true summer delight, bursting with fresh flavors and a moist texture that everyone will love. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home with family. I encourage you to bake this cake and experience the joy it brings. You won’t regret adding this recipe to your summer repertoire!

Peach Cake

Peach Cake

The ultimate comfort food, Peach Cake is made with fresh, juicy peaches and a tender, moist texture. This easy weeknight dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. It's a must-try tonight!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

  • cup Butter softened
  • cups brown sugar packed
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Buttermilk
  • 3 cups Fresh peaches (from about 3 large peaches – peeled and sliced into 1/2" to 1" chunks)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Frying Pan
  • Peeler
  • Whisk
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9" x 13" pan with non-stick spray and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Then beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt together.
  4. Gradually add flour mixture to the creamed butter and brown sugar, alternating with the buttermilk. Beat until smooth after each addition.
  5. Gently fold in the peaches with a spatula. Then spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle over the batter.
  7. Bake for 38 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Metal pans will usually require less baking time than glass. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Freezing: You can freeze this cake! Just wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to three months.
  • Variations: Consider adding nuts or other fruits to the batter for added texture and flavor.
  • Frosting: A light cream cheese frosting can enhance this cake and make it even more indulgent.
  • Layer Cake: To make it a layer cake, bake two rounds and layer with whipped cream.

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