Peach upside down cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. This fruity treat combines the sweetness of peaches with a moist cake base, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Its standout feature is the beautiful caramelized peach topping that adds both flavor and visual appeal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and common ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet peaches and buttery cake creates a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with ice cream for a cozy dessert or enjoy it at room temperature with coffee for brunch.
- Beautiful Presentation: The inverted cake showcases glossy peaches, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.
- Perfect for Sharing: With eight generous slices, this cake is ideal for gatherings and family get-togethers.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Nonstick cooking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch round cake pan: Ensures even baking and allows the cake to rise properly.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills or mess.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your batter, resulting in a light texture.
Ingredients
Peach upside down cake is a twist on a traditional dessert. It’s fruity, delicious and a great way to change up dessert.
For the Topping
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups peaches (sliced and peeled)
For the Cake
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
How to Make Peach Upside Down Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9-inch cake pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. Cut a piece of parchment paper into a circle and place it at the bottom of the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and melted butter until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the parchment paper in the prepared pan. Arrange the sliced peaches in an attractive pattern over the brown sugar mixture.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 6 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl regularly to ensure even mixing.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
To the butter-sugar mixture, add one egg and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into your batter by alternating with milk until everything is well mixed.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Carefully pour the batter over the arranged peaches in your pan. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.
Step 8: Invert Cake
Run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen it. Place an inverted plate over the top of your cake, then carefully flip it onto that plate. Remove parchment paper gently, replacing any peaches that may stick.
Step 9: Serve
Allow your peach upside down cake to cool completely before serving or enjoy slightly warm!
How to Serve Peach Upside Down Cake
Peach upside down cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
With Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and a light texture.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or peach ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Add fresh peach slices or berries on the side to enhance the fruity flavor and add color to your plate.
Drizzle of Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of caramel sauce over the top provides an extra layer of sweetness and sophistication.
With Yogurt
- Pair a slice with Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy complement that balances the sweetness.
How to Perfect Peach Upside Down Cake
Achieving the perfect peach upside down cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time.
Use ripe peaches: Select peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum flavor and juiciness.
Ensure even baking: Rotate the cake pan halfway through baking for an evenly baked crust and topping.
Cool before serving: Let the cake cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure and prevent it from falling apart.
Experiment with spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of the cake.
Best Side Dishes for Peach Upside Down Cake
Pairing your peach upside down cake with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Grilled Chicken: Simple grilled chicken seasoned with herbs provides protein without overpowering the dessert.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring savory flavors that contrast nicely with sweet desserts.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, pairs wonderfully with fruit-based desserts.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds texture and brightness alongside your cake.
- Pecan or Walnut Topping: Sprinkle toasted nuts over your serving plate for added crunch and nuttiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peach Upside Down Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect your final product. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always use room temperature ingredients for a light texture.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin the balance. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment paper can cause the cake to stick to the pan, ruining the presentation. Always line the pan with parchment for easy release.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can create a tough cake. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
- Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Peach Upside Down Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Peach Upside Down Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-45 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Peach Upside Down Cake.
How do I know when my Peach Upside Down Cake is done?
You can check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned peaches work well as long as you drain them well before use. This helps prevent excess moisture in your cake.
What is the best way to serve Peach Upside Down Cake?
Serve it warm or at room temperature, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence!
Can I customize my Peach Upside Down Cake?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, spices like cinnamon, or even substitute other fruits such as pineapple or berries for variation.
Final Thoughts
Peach upside down cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert that everyone will love. Its fruity flavor and charming presentation make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings! Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Peach Upside Down Cake
Delight in the incredible flavors of Peach Upside Down Cake, a fruity dessert that beautifully melds sweet, caramelized peaches with a moist cake base. This twist on a classic treat is not only simple to make but also visually stunning, showcasing glossy peaches that create an eye-catching centerpiece for any occasion. Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or just a cozy evening at home, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to prepare with readily available ingredients and versatile in serving options—whether warm with ice cream or at room temperature with coffee—this delightful dessert will quickly become a beloved recipe in your kitchen.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves about eight people 1x
Ingredients
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups peaches (sliced and peeled)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and melted butter, then spread this mixture evenly over the parchment paper in the prepared pan. Arrange sliced peaches over the sugar mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually combine dry ingredients into the wet mixture while alternating with milk until well-mixed.
- Pour the batter over the arranged peaches and bake for about 50 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling before inverting onto a plate to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One slice (about 80g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg