Celebrate the sweet, juicy flavors of summer with this irresistible Summer Peach Cake. Whether made with fresh, sun-ripened peaches or canned for convenience, this moist cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With a soft, tender crumb and a delightful cinnamon-sugar topping, every bite is a burst of summery sweetness. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle it with a simple vanilla glaze to elevate the flavors even more. It’s easy to make and sure to be a hit at picnics, family gatherings, or as an afternoon treat!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or 1 can of peaches, drained)
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan.
- Dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the room-temperature butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate the sour cream: Gently mix in the sour cream, which adds moisture and a rich tang to the cake.
- Combine dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the cake to remain tender.
- Add the peaches: Gently fold the fresh or drained canned peach slices into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Assemble the Cake
- Pour into the pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter over the cinnamon-sugar topping for an extra buttery crunch.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Oven Cooking: Set the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the middle—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Optional Vanilla Glaze
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. To adjust the consistency of the glaze, mix in additional milk if it’s too thick or incorporate extra powdered sugar if it’s too runny.
- Drizzle: Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top in a decorative pattern.
Conclusion:
This Irresistible Summer Peach Cake is the perfect way to showcase the natural sweetness of peaches. The moist, buttery cake combined with the cinnamon-sugar topping creates a comforting dessert with a hint of warm spice, and the optional vanilla glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer gathering or as a treat at home, this peach cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Serve it warm or chilled, and savor every bite!