Brown Sugar Peach Cake
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is the ultimate summer treat that showcases the sweetness of fresh peaches in a soft and moist cake. Perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or just a delightful dessert at home, this cake will quickly become a favorite. The addition of brown sugar caramel icing elevates it to an irresistible level, making every bite a flavorful experience. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this cake is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake can be whipped up in no time.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of ripe peaches and rich brown sugar creates an unforgettable taste.
- Versatile Dessert: Great for any occasion, from summer parties to cozy family dinners.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The use of peach nectar keeps the cake incredibly moist.
- Stunning Presentation: Topped with glossy caramel icing, it’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this Brown Sugar Peach Cake, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- 9×12 baking pan
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides enough space for mixing your batter without making a mess.
- Electric mixer: This tool ensures your ingredients are blended thoroughly, creating a light and fluffy cake.
- 9×12 baking pan: Perfect for achieving an even bake and providing the right thickness for your cake.
- Saucepan: Essential for making the rich brown sugar icing that tops your cake.
Ingredients
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is a classic yellow cake loaded with fresh peaches, and topped with a brown sugar caramel icing ~ it’s the dessert of the summer!
- 15 ounce yellow cake mix (I like Duncan Hines)
- 3 large eggs (or the amount specified by your cake mix)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or the amount specified by your cake mix)
- 1/2 cup peach nectar or peach juice
- 1 lb peeled and chopped peaches (about 3-4)
- drop orange food coloring (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut in pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar, sifted
How to Make Brown Sugar Peach Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, blend together the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, peach nectar, and food coloring if you’re using it until well combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped peaches.
- Transfer the batter into a lightly sprayed 9×12 baking pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake for about 28 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Step 4: Make the Icing
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine unsalted butter, heavy cream, and packed brown sugar.
- Bring to a boil while stirring constantly. Remove from heat once it reaches boiling point.
- Stir in vanilla extract and sifted confectioner’s sugar. Whisk until smooth.
Step 5: Frosting the Cake
Pour the warm frosting over your baked cake carefully for an even coat. Work quickly as it sets rapidly.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Let the frosting harden at room temperature or refrigerate before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Peach Cake!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Peach Cake
Serving Brown Sugar Peach Cake can elevate your dessert experience into something truly delightful. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some ideas for presenting this tasty treat.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Light and Fluffy: Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and texture.
À La Mode
- Ice Cream Delight: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess will balance perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.
Garnished with Peaches
- Fresh Fruit Addition: Add fresh peach slices on top for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Extra Sweetness: A drizzle of caramel sauce over the cake enhances its brown sugar flavor, making it even more indulgent.
Alongside Coffee or Tea
- Perfect Pairing: Enjoy your cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink complements the cake beautifully.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Peach Cake
To make your Brown Sugar Peach Cake even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Ripe Peaches: Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. They should be slightly soft to the touch.
- Mix Ingredients Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a smooth batter. This helps in achieving an even texture.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done. It should come out clean, but moist crumbs are acceptable.
- Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting. This prevents melting and ensures even coverage.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like nuts or berries for added flair and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Peach Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Peach Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some suggestions that complement this delightful dessert well.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: A light salad featuring grilled chicken and mixed greens balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche adds protein and flavor diversity, making it great for brunch gatherings.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a savory contrast that pairs wonderfully with dessert.
- Cheese Platter: Offer a variety of cheeses; their salty notes can beautifully offset the sweetness of the cake.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad offers a refreshing side that echoes the peach flavors in the cake.
- Classic Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can bring a crunchy texture and balance to your meal’s flavors.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These can serve as a fun addition, especially if you’re enjoying your cake after a hearty meal.
- Chilled Soup: A chilled soup like gazpacho provides a refreshing starter before indulging in dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, and making a Brown Sugar Peach Cake is no exception. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat before placing your cake inside.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
- Using Unripe Peaches: Unripe peaches won’t provide the desired sweetness. Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor.
- Neglecting the Frosting Timing: Waiting too long to frost can cause the icing to harden. Frost while the cake is still warm for better adherence.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different. Always check doneness with a toothpick instead of relying solely on time.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Brown Sugar Peach Cake:
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned peaches, but make sure they are well-drained. Fresh peaches provide better flavor and texture.
How do I know when my cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the frosting?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk as alternatives, though they may not be as rich.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version available at most grocery stores.
How should I store leftover frosting?
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Final Thoughts
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or spices like cinnamon. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful dessert; it’s sure to impress!
Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Brown Sugar Peach Cake, a perfect summer dessert that harmoniously blends the sweetness of fresh peaches with a moist, fluffy cake. Topped with luscious brown sugar caramel icing, this cake is not only visually stunning but also irresistibly delicious. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or simply enjoying at home with your morning coffee, each bite promises a burst of fruity flavor. Easy to make and versatile enough for any occasion, this cake is destined to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 15 oz yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup peach nectar
- 1 lb fresh peaches (peeled and chopped)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 1/2 cups confectioner's sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×12 baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and peach nectar. Mix until well blended.
- Gently fold in the chopped peaches and pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the icing, combine butter, heavy cream, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sifted confectioner's sugar until smooth.
- Pour the warm icing over the cooled cake and let it set before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
