Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Why Make This Recipe

Brown Sugar Peach Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweetness of ripe peaches and the rich flavor of brown sugar. This cake is perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy family dinner. It’s easy to make and is sure to impress your guests or loved ones. The combination of fruits and warm spices creates a comforting treat that is both delicious and beautiful.

How to Make Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Ingredients:

• 2 to 3 fresh peaches, washed, peeled, and sliced (ripe but firm)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark, according to preference)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk, at room temperature

Directions:

1. Wash, peel, and slice the fresh peaches, making sure they are ripe but firm to prevent excess moisture.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan thoroughly to avoid sticking.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon (if using), and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents for a well-risen cake.
4. Using a mixer, beat the softened butter with brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This adds air to the cake, making it tender.
5. Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. This creates a good structure and adds a lovely aroma to the batter.
6. Alternate adding the dry mixture and milk (or buttermilk) to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
7. Gently fold in the peach slices, being careful not to break them.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown with an irresistible aroma.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing, to help it set and make serving easier.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Serve your Brown Sugar Peach Cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.

How to Store Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it to keep it fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.

Tips to Make Brown Sugar Peach Cake

• Make sure your peaches are ripe but not overripe to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
• Room temperature eggs and milk help create a smooth batter and ensure better mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour; this can lead to a dense cake.

Variation

Feel free to add nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. You can also substitute the peaches with other fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a different flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peaches?
   Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container after it cools.

3. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
   If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using.