Brown Sugar Peach Cake
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is a delightful summer dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh peaches with the rich flavor of brown sugar caramel icing. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings, this cake stands out with its moist texture and vibrant flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in a sweet treat, this cake will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake can be whipped up quickly.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of peaches and brown sugar creates a unique taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dessert: Great for summer parties, potlucks, or even as a delightful after-dinner treat.
- Moist and Tender: Thanks to fresh peaches, the cake remains moist and flavorful throughout.
- Impressive Presentation: The caramel icing adds a beautiful finish that makes it perfect for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make your preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×12-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly for a uniform batter.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve the right consistency when mixing cake batter and frosting.
- Saucepan: Needed for preparing the rich brown sugar caramel icing that tops the cake.
Ingredients
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is made with these delicious 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 step ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, blend together the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, peach nectar (and food coloring if using).
- Fold in the chopped peaches gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a lightly sprayed 9×12 pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 28 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Step 4: Make the Brown Sugar Caramel Icing
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, heavy cream, and brown sugar.
- Stir constantly until it reaches a boil. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.
- Gradually whisk in the sifted confectioner’s sugar until smooth. If necessary, return to low heat to dissolve any lumps.
Step 5: Ice the Cake
Carefully pour the warm icing over the baked cake. Try to cover it evenly on your first attempt as it sets quickly.
Step 6: Let It Set
Allow the frosting to harden at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator before slicing 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 special occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for added richness and a light, fluffy texture.
A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve warm slices alongside creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast of temperatures makes for an indulgent treat.
Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce
- Enhance the sweet flavor by drizzling extra brown sugar caramel sauce over each piece before serving.
Garnished with Sliced Peaches
- Fresh peach slices on top not only look appealing but also add a burst of fruity flavor that complements the cake.
Accompanied by Fresh Berries
- A side of mixed berries, like strawberries or blueberries, adds a refreshing contrast and vibrant color to your dessert plate.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Peach Cake
To ensure your Brown Sugar Peach Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Ripe Peaches: The best flavor comes from ripe peaches. Look for firm but slightly soft fruits for maximum sweetness.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently folding in the peaches helps maintain a light texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is accurately calibrated. An oven thermometer can help maintain consistent heat for baking.
- Let it Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the caramel frosting to prevent it from melting off.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature or in the fridge for up to three days to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Peach Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Peach Cake can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Crispy Green Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the sweet cake.
- Charcuterie Board: Cheese and cured meats pair well, offering savory bites that balance the sweetness of the dessert.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables provide a hearty side that complements the fruity flavors beautifully.
- Roasted Potatoes: Herb-roasted potatoes make for a comforting side dish that works well at casual gatherings.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh your palate, making it an ideal accompaniment to rich desserts.
- Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side for an unexpected texture contrast along with yogurt if desired.
- Classic Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw offer a nice counterpoint to the sweetness of the cake.
- Spiced Applesauce: Warm spiced applesauce is an excellent pairing that echoes the peach flavors while adding warmth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with a delicious recipe like Brown Sugar Peach Cake. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor. Always check the expiration dates on your baking supplies.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use the right tools to measure flour, sugar, and liquids correctly for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one. Mix just until combined to keep it airy.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the cake while it’s still hot can ruin its texture. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Ovens can vary significantly. Always preheat and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Brown Sugar Peach Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months; just remember to label your bags!
Reheating Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat slices wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about this delightful dessert, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Brown Sugar Peach Cake.
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned peaches if fresh ones aren’t available. Just ensure they are well-drained and pat them dry before adding them to the batter.
How do I know when my cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs attached but no wet batter.
Can I add other fruits to the Brown Sugar Peach Cake?
Absolutely! You can mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added flavor and variety.
What if I don’t have peach nectar?
You can substitute peach nectar with peach juice or even apple juice if needed; it will still taste great!
How should I serve this cake?
Serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Final Thoughts
This Brown Sugar Peach Cake is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits or spices according to your preference. Enjoy this summer treat at home and share it with friends and family; they will surely love it!
Brown Sugar Peach Cake
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Experience the bliss of summer with this Brown Sugar Peach Cake, a charming dessert that marries the luscious taste of fresh peaches with a rich brown sugar caramel icing. This moist and tender cake is perfect for any occasion—be it a family barbecue, picnic, or simply a sweet indulgence at home. With its vibrant flavors and impressive presentation, it’s sure to be a hit among friends and family. Delight in every bite and savor the comforting essence of summer!
Ingredients
- 15 ounces yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup peach nectar or juice
- 1 pound fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
- 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. Gently fold in the chopped peaches.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×12 inch baking pan.
- Bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the icing, heat butter, heavy cream, and brown sugar in a saucepan until boiling. Stir in vanilla and gradually whisk in confectioner's sugar until smooth.
- Pour icing over the cooled cake and allow it to set before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
