Easy Peach Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a luscious, quick-to-whip-up dessert that sings with summer flavor, look no further than this Easy Peach Cake Recipe. Each bite is brimming with juicy peaches, brown sugar richness, and a dreamy caramel icing that practically guarantees smiles. This is the kind of cake that works just as well for weeknight treats as it does for backyard get-togethers and special celebrations. Whether you use fresh peaches picked at their peak or sink-open a can during the off-season, this recipe never fails to deliver warm, fruit-filled comfort in every tender slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this cake lies in its simple, everyday ingredients; each one plays a key role in making the flavor, color, and texture just right. Trust me, you’ll appreciate how these basics transform into something so much more than the sum of their parts.

• Brown sugar: Brings a lovely molasses undertone and moisture to the cake and icing.
• Butter (softened): Lends richness and creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
• Milk: Provides a silky texture and keeps the batter light.
• Peach syrup (or extra milk): Adds an extra punch of peach flavor if using canned fruit; opt for milk if going fresh.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the cake with comforting, aromatic notes.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the perfect base for a soft, fluffy cake.
• Baking powder: Offers that all-important lift for a light, airy slice.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the fruit flavor.
• Peaches (fresh or canned): The star! Peachy sweetness and juiciness in every bite.
• Butter (for icing): Makes the icing creamy and rich.
• Cream: Gives the icing a billowy, luscious texture.
• Brown sugar (for icing): Deepens the caramel flavor of the frosting.
• Vanilla extract (for icing): Adds a final touch of warmth to the icing.
• Powdered sugar: Thickens and sweetens the icing to the perfect consistency.

How to Make Easy Peach Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and greasing a 9×13 cake pan. Getting this set up first ensures your cake won’t stick later – a little butter or nonstick spray works wonders!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or with an electric hand mixer), beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy and light. This step is the secret to that soft, melt-in-your-mouth crumb everyone loves.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the milk, peach syrup (or extra milk if using fresh peaches), and vanilla extract. The batter will become beautifully smooth as these liquid ingredients blend in, already hinting at the flavor to come.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution, preventing any clumps of leavening and giving your cake a perfectly consistent rise.

Step 5: Bring Everything Together

Add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix – keeping it tender is key!

Step 6: Fold in the Peaches

Now for the star of the show! Gently fold the chopped peaches into your batter. Each piece will bake into juicy pockets of flavor, adding the best bursts of color and taste.

Step 7: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake in the center of the oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will smell so good, it’s hard to wait!

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool completely in the pan. This gives everything a chance to set, and means your icing will glide on smoothly later.

Step 9: Make the Icing

In a saucepan, combine the butter, cream, and brown sugar. Bring this to a gentle boil for a minute or two, then remove from the heat. Whisk in the vanilla and powdered sugar until the icing is silky and smooth.

Step 10: Ice the Cake

Pour the warm icing over the cooled cake, spreading quickly and evenly – it sets up fast! Stand back and admire your glistening, caramelly masterpiece.

How to Serve Easy Peach Cake Recipe

Garnishes

The right garnish can make your Easy Peach Cake Recipe look as irresistible as it tastes. I love to sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar over the top, or add thin slices of fresh peach and a few mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

This cake shines alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For something lighter, serve with a fresh fruit salad or a handful of raspberries for a bright, tart contrast to the caramel icing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into individual squares and serving each on a dessert plate with a drizzle of caramel sauce. Or, layer cubes of cake with whipped cream and peach slices in glass jars for charming parfaits at picnics or parties. The Easy Peach Cake Recipe even works as a sweet brunch treat with a mug of coffee or tea!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your cake as delicious as possible, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The icing helps lock in moisture, so every bite stays incredibly tender.

Freezing

If you need to freeze, cut the cake (with or without icing) into squares and wrap each piece individually. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Just thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy; the flavors still shine through perfectly.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked warmth, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. This softens the cake and gives the icing an extra gooey edge—perfect for cold days or whenever you need a little extra comfort.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches in the Easy Peach Cake Recipe?

Yes! Just thaw and drain the peaches first, then chop them as you would fresh or canned. The cake will still turn out moist and flavorful.

Is the Easy Peach Cake Recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

You can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free, too, and you’ll be in business.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Use two 9×13 pans, and keep an eye on baking times—they may need an extra few minutes if the pans are crowded in the oven. This crowd-pleaser always disappears fast.

Can I use other fruits instead of peaches?

Pears, nectarines, or plums would all be fantastic here if you’re feeling creative or peaches aren’t in season. Just keep the measurements the same and have fun experimenting!

What’s the best way to peel fresh peaches?

For easy peeling, score an X at the bottom of each peach and blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Immediately transfer to an ice bath and the skins will slide right off!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about baking a homemade cake that everyone loves, and this Easy Peach Cake Recipe is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a memorable dessert. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home, too – happy baking!

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