This fresh peach cake is a delightful treat! It’s packed with juicy peaches and has a nice, fluffy texture. It’s perfect for sunny days or whenever you’re craving something sweet.
What I love most about this cake is that it uses fresh fruit, making it taste extra special. Plus, if you have leftover peaches, you can just toss them in—no waste here! 🍑🎂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is essential for a rich flavor. If you need a healthier option, you can substitute with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a vegan version.
Fresh Peaches: Peaches are key for sweetness and moisture. If they aren’t in season, frozen peaches can work too—just be sure to thaw and drain extra juice to prevent a soggy cake. You can also use other fruits like nectarines or plums!
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with texture. For a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup or use a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or honey (but adjust the liquids accordingly).
All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour gives the cake structure. If you want to make it gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead; just make sure it has xanthan gum included for the best results.
How Do I Cream Butter and Sugar Properly?
Creaming butter and sugar is important for a light, fluffy cake. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your butter is softened, not melted—this creates air pockets for fluffiness.
- Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light in color and fluffy.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure even mixing.
When done correctly, this step helps the cake rise beautifully. Happy baking!
Easy Fresh Peach Cake with Extra Fruit
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 3-4 fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 3 cups)
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy fresh peach cake takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to bake it for 40-45 minutes. After baking, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Overall, set aside about an hour for baking and cooling to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8 or 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
2. Cream Together Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is key for a soft cake!
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for a warm flavor boost.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will help distribute the baking powder evenly throughout your cake.
5. Mix It All Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently, just until everything is combined; you don’t want to over-mix.
6. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
7. Add Peach Slices:
Take the sliced peaches and arrange them over the top of the batter, gently pressing them in. This way, they’ll bake right into the cake!
8. Bake the Cake:
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
9. Cool the Cake:
After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust and Serve:
Once your cake has cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar for a lovely finish. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if you’re feeling fancy!
11. Enjoy!
Slice the cake and serve it up. Enjoy the deliciousness of fresh peaches with every bite!
This easy fresh peach cake is a delightful way to enjoy summer fruits, perfect for gatherings or just a sweet treat at home!
FAQ for Easy Fresh Peach Cake with Extra Fruit
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh Peaches?
Yes, you can use canned peaches if fresh ones aren’t available! Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in your cake.
How Do I Store Leftover Cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best results, and your cake will turn out just as delicious!
What Other Fruits Can I Use in This Cake?
While peaches are the star here, feel free to experiment with other fruits like sliced nectarines, plums, or even berries. Just adjust the quantity to about 3 cups total fruit to maintain the cake’s moisture.
