Brown Sugar Peach Cake
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is the perfect summer dessert, combining the sweetness of peaches with a rich brown sugar caramel icing. This delightful cake is great for family gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home. It’s easy to make and will impress your guests with its moist texture and incredible flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Sweet: The combination of fresh peaches and brown sugar creates an irresistible flavor that captures the essence of summer.
- Easy to Make: With a simple yellow cake mix as the base, this recipe comes together quickly, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert or serve it with whipped cream for an elegant treat at any occasion.
- Perfectly Moist: The addition of peach nectar ensures that this cake stays moist and flavorful throughout.
- Stunning Presentation: Topped with a glossy brown sugar caramel icing, this cake looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will save time and make the task more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×12 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Toothpick for testing doneness
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×12 inch baking pan: The ideal size for baking this cake evenly.
- Mixing bowls: Multiple sizes help in organizing ingredients and mixing efficiently.
- Saucepan: Essential for preparing the caramel icing without burning it.
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!
Ingredients:
– 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 from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
Blend together the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, peach nectar, and optional food coloring until well combined.
Fold in the chopped peaches gently.
Pour the batter into a lightly sprayed 9×12 inch pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake for about 28 minutes. Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs.
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 and add vanilla extract and sifted confectioner’s sugar.
Whisk until smooth; return to low heat if necessary to dissolve lumps.
Step 5: Frosting Application
Pour the icing over the warm cake carefully:
Aim for an even coat on your first try since it sets quickly.
Step 6: Let It Set
Allow your frosting to harden at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator before cutting into slices. Enjoy!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Peach Cake
Brown Sugar Peach Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Whether you want to elevate your serving or keep it simple, these suggestions will enhance your cake experience.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a rich texture that complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
Served with Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cake, creating a deliciously creamy contrast that is perfect for summer.
Accompanied by Fresh Peaches
- Slices of fresh peaches not only enhance the peach flavor but also add a refreshing element to each bite.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of caramel sauce intensifies the brown sugar flavor and adds an extra layer of sweetness.
With a Side of Greek Yogurt
- For a healthier option, serve the cake with a dollop of Greek yogurt, which balances the sweetness while adding creaminess.
Topped with Toasted Nuts
- Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans on top for added crunch and nuttiness that pairs well with the cake’s flavors.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Peach Cake
To achieve the best results with your Brown Sugar Peach Cake, follow these helpful tips for a fantastic dessert every time.
- Use ripe peaches: Choose fully ripe peaches to ensure maximum flavor and juiciness in your cake.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs.
- Cool before frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the brown sugar icing for better adherence and texture.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with spices: Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for added warmth and depth of flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Peach Cake
Pairing side dishes with Brown Sugar Peach Cake can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider:
- Grilled Chicken Salad – A light salad featuring grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements fruity desserts perfectly. Grill or boil for an easy side.
- Caprese Salad – This fresh salad made from tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil provide savory flavors that balance out sweet dishes like this cake.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a slight tang that works well alongside desserts.
- Fruit Salad – A mixed fruit salad enhances fruit flavors while providing freshness after enjoying dessert.
- Cheese Platter – An assortment of cheeses can create a sophisticated pairing with this sweet dessert.
- Savory Quiche – Serve slices of quiche as a hearty side; its richness pairs nicely with sweet treats like this peach cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Brown Sugar Peach Cake can be a joyful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.
- Skipping the Peaches: Not using fresh peaches can lead to a lack of flavor. Always choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best taste.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make your cake dense. Blend just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can ruin your cake. Always preheat your oven to 350F to ensure even baking.
- Not Checking for Doneness: Relying solely on time can result in an undercooked or overcooked cake. Use a toothpick to check; moist crumbs are fine.
- Rushing the Frosting: Pouring hot frosting on the cake immediately can crack the surface. Allow it to cool slightly for better results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding the Brown Sugar Peach Cake recipe:
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Using canned peaches is possible, but fresh peaches provide better flavor and texture. Drain canned peaches well before adding them.
What if I don’t have peach nectar?
You can substitute peach nectar with apple juice or even water. However, this may alter the taste slightly.
How do I customize my Brown Sugar Peach Cake?
Consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch or spices like cinnamon for warmth and depth of flavor.
What should I serve with Brown Sugar Peach Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Final Thoughts
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for summer gatherings. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Brown Sugar Peach Cake, a perfect summer dessert that brings together juicy peaches and a luscious brown sugar caramel icing. This cake’s moist texture and rich flavor make it an ideal choice for family gatherings, picnics, or a sweet treat at home. With its easy preparation using a simple yellow cake mix, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent experience. Impress your guests with a stunning presentation topped with glossy icing that beautifully complements the fresh peach flavor.
Ingredients
- 15 ounce yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup peach nectar or juice
- 1 lb fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups confectioner's sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and peach nectar until well blended. Gently fold in chopped peaches.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×12 inch pan and bake for about 28 minutes; check doneness with a toothpick.
- For icing, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream and brown sugar; bring to boil while stirring continuously. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla and confectioner's sugar until smooth.
- Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, pour the icing evenly on top. Let it set before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (95g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
