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Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Brown Sugar Peach Cake is a warm, sweet, and rustic dessert that combines luscious ripe peaches with a tender, moist crumb enriched by the caramel flavors of brown sugar. Perfectly balancing fruity freshness and comforting sweetness, this cake is easy to make, versatile for any occasion, and ideal for celebrating the summer peach season.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 34 ripe but firm fresh peaches, washed, peeled (optional), and sliced thinly
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based butter for vegan/dairy-free version)
  • 2 large eggs (or 2 flax eggs for vegan version)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peaches: Wash the peaches thoroughly. Peel them if desired for a smoother texture, then slice them into thin, even pieces to ensure even baking and juicy sweetness throughout the cake.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend), baking powder, salt, and optional cinnamon or nutmeg. Stir well to distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the mixture.
  3. Cream Butter and Brown Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process creates a creamy base that adds moisture and the signature caramel flavor to the cake.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor complexity.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
  6. Fold in Peaches: Gently fold the prepared peach slices into the batter, taking care not to break them down. Distribute the peaches evenly for the best texture and flavor.
  7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined cake pan. Sprinkle additional brown sugar on top if desired for a caramelized crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm peaches to prevent the cake from becoming watery or mushy.
  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid developing gluten, which can make the cake dense.
  • Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a uniform crumb.
  • Begin checking the cake for doneness a few minutes before the timer to prevent overbaking and dryness.
  • Sprinkle brown sugar on top before baking for a deeper, slightly crunchy crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar peach cake, peach dessert, summer cake, moist peach cake, caramel peach cake, gluten-free peach cake, easy peach cake