Brown Sugar Peach Cake
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is the perfect summer dessert, bursting with the sweetness of fresh peaches and topped with a rich brown sugar caramel icing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet treat on a sunny afternoon, this cake is sure to impress. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe uses a yellow cake mix, making it simple for bakers of all levels.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The addition of fresh peaches elevates the cake, providing natural sweetness and moisture.
- Irresistible Topping: The brown sugar caramel icing adds a rich, indulgent layer that complements the peach flavor perfectly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at parties, potlucks, or as a weekend treat – it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make the process quicker and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×12 inch baking pan
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk: A great tool for mixing batter smoothly and incorporating air for fluffiness.
- 9×12 inch baking pan: Perfect size for this cake to achieve even cooking.
- Saucepan: Ideal for preparing the luscious brown sugar caramel icing.
Ingredients
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is made with simple ingredients that come together beautifully.
Cake 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)
Frosting Ingredients
- 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 Cake Batter
Blend together the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, peach nectar, and orange food coloring (if using). Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Add Peaches
Fold in the peeled and chopped peaches gently into the batter.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a lightly sprayed 9×12 pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 28 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine unsalted butter, heavy cream, and packed brown sugar. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly. Once boiling, remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Gradually whisk in sifted confectioner’s sugar until smooth.
Step 6: Frost Your Cake
Pour the warm frosting over the baked cake while it’s still hot. Try to coat it evenly on your first attempt as it will set quickly.
Step 7: Let It Set
Allow the icing to harden at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Peach Cake!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Peach Cake
This delightful Brown Sugar Peach Cake is perfect for summer gatherings and celebrations. Whether you are hosting a barbecue, picnic, or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.
A La Mode
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich and creamy contrast to the sweet peaches.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for an airy addition that complements the caramel icing beautifully.
Pair with Coffee
- Enjoy a slice alongside a hot cup of coffee or iced coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Add Fruit Salad
- Serve with a side of mixed fruit salad to add freshness and balance out the sweetness of the cake.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- Enhance the flavor by drizzling extra caramel sauce over each piece before serving for added indulgence.
Garnish with Mint
- A sprig of fresh mint on top creates a beautiful presentation and adds a hint of freshness to each bite.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Peach Cake
To make your Brown Sugar Peach Cake truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
- Use ripe peaches: Ripe peaches will provide the best flavor and juiciness. Choose fruits that yield slightly when pressed.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs. This ensures perfect baking.
- Cool before frosting: Let the cake cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting off and creating a gooey mess.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Peach Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Peach Cake can elevate your dessert table. Here are some delicious options:
- Grilled Peaches: Lightly grill peach halves until caramelized; serve alongside cake for complementary flavors.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar can balance sweetness perfectly.
- Salty Nuts: Roasted almonds or pecans offer a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a refreshing side that pairs well with dessert.
- Savory Salad: A mixed green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the sweetness and refreshes the palate.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The rich chocolate adds an elegant touch that pairs beautifully with peach flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Brown Sugar Peach Cake, some common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are a few tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
- Ignoring the ripeness of peaches: Using under-ripe or overripe peaches can change the cake’s flavor and texture. Always choose fresh, firm peaches for the best results.
- Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven baking. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350F before placing your cake inside.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
- Skipping the frosting step: The brown sugar caramel icing adds a delicious layer of flavor. Don’t rush; take time to prepare and pour it evenly over the cake.
- Not letting the frosting set: Cutting into your cake too soon can result in a messy presentation. Allow the icing to harden at room temperature or in the fridge before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Brown Sugar Peach Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F, place the cake on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Brown Sugar Peach Cake that may help you as you prepare this delightful dessert.
What makes Brown Sugar Peach Cake special?
The combination of sweet brown sugar and juicy peaches creates a uniquely flavorful dessert that highlights summer’s bounty.
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute frozen peaches. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well before adding them to the batter.
How do I know when my Brown Sugar Peach Cake is done?
Check with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Can I customize this Brown Sugar Peach Cake recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, spices like cinnamon, or even mix in other fruits for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt it by using different fruits or adding extra spices. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as an everyday treat. Give it a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Brown Sugar Peach Cake, a perfect summer dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh peaches with a rich brown sugar caramel icing. This easy-to-make cake is sure to impress at any gathering, from backyard barbecues to special celebrations. Using a simple yellow cake mix, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The moist texture and irresistible flavor make it a standout treat that you can customize with spices or additional fruits. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Enjoy every slice of this fruity delight!
Ingredients
- 15 oz 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, cut in pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups sifted 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. Mix until well incorporated.
- Gently fold in the chopped peaches.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×12 inch baking pan and bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the frosting, melt butter with heavy cream and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until boiling; remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Gradually whisk in sifted confectioner's sugar until smooth.
- Pour warm frosting over the baked cake while still hot and let set before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
