Fresh Peach Cake

This easy recipe for Fresh Peach Cake is perfect for celebrating the sweet, juicy flavors of summer. With two layers of fresh peaches nestled in a tender cake, this dessert brings a burst of fruity goodness in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea, this peach cake is sure to impress. Plus, it requires no special equipment—just mix and bake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No mixer required! Just whisk ingredients by hand for a simple preparation.
• Juicy and Flavorful: The layers of fresh peaches infuse the cake with natural sweetness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain or topped with powdered sugar for added flair.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for summer parties, picnics, or a delicious weeknight treat.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serves 8-10 people, making it great for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this Fresh Peach Cake is straightforward and requires minimal tools. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Springform Pan: Allows for easy removal of the cake once baked, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter without lumps.

Ingredients

For this delicious Fresh Peach Cake, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) oil (olive oil, vegetable oil, or melted coconut oil)
• 2/3 cup (133g) granulated sugar, plus 1 Tablespoon for the peaches
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup (180g) plain Greek yogurt, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cups (about 320g) sliced fresh peaches (peeled or unpeeled, about 3 peaches)
• optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• optional: confectioners’ sugar for topping

How to Make Fresh Peach Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to prepare it for the batter.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well mixed. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the oil, granulated sugar (2/3 cup), eggs, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, almond extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined.
2. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until everything is well incorporated. The batter should be creamy and slightly thick.

Step 4: Prepare the Peaches

In a medium bowl:
1. Toss peach slices with 1 Tablespoon of sugar to coat them evenly.
2. Divide the peaches in half; add cinnamon to one half if desired.

Step 5: Layer the Batter and Peaches

Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan:
1. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
2. Place half of the sugared peaches on top in an even layer.
3. Pour the remaining batter over the peach layer.
4. Top with the rest of the sugared peaches.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Bake in your preheated oven for about:
1. 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. At around the halfway mark (30 minutes), loosely tent with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack.
2. Allow cooling for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired before serving.

Step 8: Store Leftovers

Cover any leftover cake:
– Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Enjoy your delightful Fresh Peach Cake, perfect as a sweet ending to any meal!

How to Serve Fresh Peach Cake

Fresh peach cake is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your peach cake experience.

With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance without overpowering the fresh flavors of the peaches.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing your fresh peach cake with vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast between warm cake and cold ice cream, making each bite irresistible.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness of the peaches and adds a lovely sticky texture that complements the cake’s crumb.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a rich, creamy element that balances the fruity flavor of the peach cake beautifully.

Served with Fresh Berries

• Adding fresh berries on the side not only adds color but also offers a tart contrast that elevates the overall taste experience.

Accompanied by a Cup of Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying your fresh peach cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a comforting afternoon treat, perfect for gatherings or quiet moments at home.

How to Perfect Fresh Peach Cake

To ensure your fresh peach cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor and juiciness in your cake.
• Room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs and yogurt to come to room temperature for better mixing and texture in the batter.
• Don’t overmix: Stir until just combined to keep your cake tender and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Tent with foil: If your cake starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent burning.
• Cool before slicing: Letting the cake cool for at least 30 minutes ensures cleaner slices and helps maintain its structure.
• Experiment with spices: Consider adding nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for an exciting twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Fresh Peach Cake

Fresh peach cake pairs well with various side dishes, enhancing its flavors and providing balance. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   A layered parfait made with Greek yogurt, granola, and honey complements the peach flavors while adding crunch.
2. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad featuring arugula, goat cheese, and walnuts provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.
3. Cheese Platter
   Serve an assortment of cheeses like brie and sharp cheddar alongside crackers for a savory balance to your peach cake’s sweetness.
4. Fruit Salad
   A colorful fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can brighten up your table while offering additional textures and flavors.
5. Nutty Granola Bars
   Chewy granola bars filled with nuts add crunchiness and can be served as an energy-boosting snack alongside your dessert.
6. Chocolate Mousse
   Rich chocolate mousse creates a decadent pairing that contrasts perfectly with the lightness of fresh peach cake.
7. Lemon Sorbet
   A scoop of lemon sorbet provides a zesty refreshment that cleanses the palate between bites of sweet peach goodness.
8. Coconut Chia Pudding
   Creamy chia pudding made with coconut milk offers a tropical twist that harmonizes beautifully with peaches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a fresh peach cake can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using unripe peaches: Always choose ripe, sweet peaches for the best flavor. Unripe peaches can lead to a less flavorful cake.
• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs and yogurt can affect how well they combine with other ingredients. Always bring these items to room temperature for a light and airy batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your cake dense. Mix until just combined to keep it tender and fluffy.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents using too much flour, which can lead to a dry cake.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan ensures it sets properly. Cutting it too soon can lead to a messy slice.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Fresh peach cake will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fresh Peach Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Fresh Peach Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10–15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Fresh Peach Cake so special?

The combination of fresh peaches layered throughout gives this cake a burst of flavor, making it extra moist and delicious.

Can I use frozen peaches for this Fresh Peach Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

How do I know when my Fresh Peach Cake is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, indicating it’s perfectly baked.

Can I customize this Fresh Peach Cake recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, coconut, or even berries for different flavors. Feel free to experiment!

Final Thoughts

This fresh peach cake is delightful with its tender crumb and juicy peach layers. It’s perfect as a dessert or even as a sweet breakfast treat! Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite mix-ins or toppings; it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion.