Brown Sugar Peach Cake
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is the perfect summer dessert, combining a moist yellow cake with juicy peaches and topped with a wonderfully rich brown sugar caramel icing. Ideal for picnics, family gatherings, or simply a sweet treat at home, this cake stands out for its delightful flavors and easy preparation. You’ll love how fresh peaches elevate this classic recipe into something truly special!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and brown sugar creates a rich, sweet taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Easy to make: With straightforward instructions, this cake can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy bakers.
- Versatile dessert: Serve it warm as a comforting treat or chilled for a refreshing summer delight.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner, this cake fits right in.
- Impressive presentation: The caramel icing gives it a beautiful finish that will wow your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Brown Sugar Peach Cake efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×12 inch baking pan
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when blending the cake mix and eggs, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Saucepan: Essential for making the rich caramel icing without burning the ingredients.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Brown Sugar Peach Cake:
- 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 large mixing bowl, blend together the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, peach nectar, and orange food coloring if using until well combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped peaches to keep them intact.
- Pour the batter into a lightly sprayed 9×12 inch baking pan.
- Bake for about 28 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean with just moist crumbs.
Step 3: Make the Caramel Icing
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, heavy cream, and packed brown sugar.
- Bring to a boil while stirring constantly until fully combined. Remove from heat.
- Add vanilla extract and sifted confectioner’s sugar. Whisk until smooth with no lumps. If necessary, return to low heat to mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
Carefully pour the warm caramel icing over the freshly baked cake. Aim for an even coating on your first try since it sets quickly.
Step 5: Cool Before Serving
Let the frosting 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
Serving Brown Sugar Peach Cake can elevate your dessert experience, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors alongside complementary treats. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Consider topping each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the rich cake.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the warm cake, enhancing its sweetness.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top. This creates a luscious layer of flavor that enhances the brown sugar notes.
Serve Alongside Fresh Fruit
- Fresh berries or sliced strawberries provide a refreshing balance to the cake’s sweetness and boost its summer vibe.
Add a Sprinkle of Toasted Nuts
- Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, complementing the peaches wonderfully.
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea
- A slice of this cake served with your favorite coffee or tea makes for a delightful afternoon treat, perfect for gatherings or quiet moments.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Peach Cake
To achieve the ultimate Brown Sugar Peach Cake, follow these helpful tips that ensure success every time you bake.
- Use ripe peaches: Select peaches that are perfectly ripe for maximum flavor and juiciness in your cake.
- Avoid overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done; it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool before frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the brown sugar frosting for the best texture and flavor.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with spices: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile, giving your cake an extra aromatic touch.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Peach Cake
Pairing side dishes with Brown Sugar Peach Cake brings balance to your dessert table. Here are some excellent options.
- Grilled Peaches: Grilled peaches caramelize beautifully and enhance the peach flavor in the cake.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity that cuts through the sweetness.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers a creamy contrast to the dense cake.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing side that complements the dessert.
- Salad Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the cake, providing a fresh bite.
- Chocolate Mousse: For those who love chocolate, serving it alongside adds another layer of decadence to your meal.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes your palate after enjoying sweet bites of cake.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats pair well, adding contrasting textures while keeping things sweet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking this Brown Sugar Peach Cake can be delightful, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350F. An uncalibrated oven can lead to uneven baking.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make your cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Skipping the Peaches: Ensure you use fresh peaches for the best flavor and moisture. Using canned peaches can change the texture.
- Not Checking Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. If it comes out clean (or with moist crumbs), it’s ready!
- Rushing the Frosting: Allow the frosting to set properly before cutting. This ensures a cleaner slice and better presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 4 days.
Freezing Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice for about 20-30 seconds on medium power, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Brown Sugar Peach Cake.
Can I use frozen peaches for this cake?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter.
How do I know when my Brown Sugar Peach Cake is fully baked?
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or have a few moist crumbs.
What can I substitute for peach nectar?
You can use peach juice or even apple juice as a substitute if peach nectar isn’t available.
Can I add nuts to my Brown Sugar Peach Cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add great flavor and texture. Fold them into the batter before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any summer gathering. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite fruits or nuts. Try this recipe today and savor its delightful flavors!
Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the deliciousness of our Brown Sugar Peach Cake, a perfect summer dessert that brings together the sweetness of fresh peaches and the rich flavors of brown sugar. This moist yellow cake is topped with a luscious caramel icing that adds a delightful finishing touch, making it ideal for picnics, family gatherings, or simply enjoying at home. The combination of juicy peaches and decadent frosting transforms this classic recipe into a standout treat you’ll crave all season long. With straightforward preparation and impressive results, it’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family.
Ingredients
- 15 ounces yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup peach nectar or juice
- 1 pound peeled and chopped peaches (about 3-4)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and peach nectar until well mixed. 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 caramel icing, melt butter, heavy cream, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until combined. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla and 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 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: <0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
