Welcome to my kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a delightful culinary journey with a recipe that epitomizes the essence of summer: Brown Sugar Peach Cake. This delightful dessert combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with the rich flavor of brown sugar, resulting in a treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant soirées.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups fresh peaches, diced
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, until well combined.
- Gently fold in the diced peaches until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Making the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Assembling and Baking:
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this Brown Sugar Peach Cake, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Pastry cutter (or use your fingers)
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this scrumptious cake!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature or gently warm it before serving to restore its delicious texture.
Food and Drink Pairings
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages, from a piping hot cup of coffee in the morning to a refreshing glass of iced tea in the afternoon. For a special touch, try serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
FAQ
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
While fresh peaches are preferred for their juicy sweetness, you can certainly use canned peaches if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to the batter.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily make this cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Conclusion
With its moist crumb, fragrant peaches, and irresistible brown sugar topping, this Brown Sugar Peach Cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of sunshine, this cake is the perfect way to indulge in the flavors of the season. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes like this one!