Peach Cake

Soft, light, and tender, this Peach Cake is perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. Filled with sweet, juicy peaches, it’s a delightful treat that everyone will want a second slice of!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Peach Cake recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for all bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe peaches and buttery cake creates a mouthwatering flavor that is irresistible.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for brunches, picnics, or as a comforting dessert after dinner, this cake adapts to any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its moist texture and fruity goodness, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
• Storage Friendly: This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Peach Cake, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 9-inch round cake pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: A stand mixer makes beating the butter and sugar easier and more efficient. If using a bowl, ensure you have a strong arm for mixing!
• Whisk: Great for evenly combining dry ingredients like flour and baking powder without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key in baking; these tools ensure your ingredients are just right.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour (180g)
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Mixture

• ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened) (170g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup sour cream (room temperature) (60g)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Peaches

• 2 cups ripe peaches (peeled, pitted, and sliced or chopped) (400g/2 to 3 peaches)

How to Make Peach Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or baking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until they are well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy.
2. Add the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time. Be sure to scrape down the bowl after each addition.
4. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With your mixer on low speed:
1. Gradually add in the flour mixture just until combined. Take care not to overmix.
2. Fold in three-quarters of the sliced peaches into the batter gently.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Spread the batter into your prepared cake pan:
1. Sprinkle the top with the remaining peach slices.
2. Optionally add extra sugar for a sweeter crust.
3. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This Peach Cake can be covered and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days!

How to Serve Peach Cake

Serving your Peach Cake can elevate the experience and make it even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious treat that will impress your guests and family alike.

With Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the fruity flavors of the cake.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or peach ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures and flavors.

Fresh Fruit Topping

• Top your cake with additional slices of fresh peaches or berries for a refreshing touch that enhances its fruity goodness.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce over the top brings an indulgent sweetness that makes each bite even more tempting.

Served Warm

• For a cozy dessert experience, serve the Peach Cake warm from the oven. This makes it especially comforting, especially on cooler days.

How to Perfect Peach Cake

To ensure your Peach Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind. They will help enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Ripe Peaches: Choose peaches that are fully ripe for maximum sweetness and juiciness, ensuring a flavorful cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for better emulsification and texture.

• Even Slicing: When preparing peaches, slice them evenly so they bake consistently throughout the cake.

• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean without wet batter attached.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Peach Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt adds a nice contrast and makes for a lighter option alongside the sweet cake.

2. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits can provide freshness that balances the richness of the cake.

3. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a comforting beverage pairing that complements dessert time beautifully.

4. Cheese Platter: Pairing with soft cheeses like mascarpone or brie offers creamy textures that go well with fruity desserts.

5. Pecan Pie Bars: These rich bars bring nutty flavors that create an interesting contrast against the lightness of Peach Cake.

6. Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade provides a zesty kick that enhances the overall dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peach Cake, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always use room temperature ingredients for a light and fluffy texture.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can toughen the cake. Mix just until combined to keep your Peach Cake soft and tender.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Too much or too little flour can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale or fluff up the flour before scooping for accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling time – Cutting into the cake too soon can result in a crumbly texture. Allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Neglecting the baking time – Every oven is different, so check your cake a few minutes early. A wooden pick should come out clean when it’s done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peach Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peach Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peach Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid; warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peach Cake.

How do I make my Peach Cake moist?

Adding sour cream helps retain moisture, ensuring your cake stays soft and delicious.

Can I use frozen peaches in my Peach Cake?

Yes, but make sure they are thawed and drained before adding them to your batter.

What is the best way to serve Peach Cake?

Peach Cake is delightful on its own but pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

How long does Peach Cake last?

When stored properly, it stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I add other fruits to my Peach Cake?

Absolutely! Berries or apples complement peaches well and add an extra layer of flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Peach Cake recipe is not only scrumptious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or mixing in other fruits. We encourage you to try this delightful dessert that brings warmth and joy with each slice!