Peach Upside-Down Cake: A Sweet and Fruity Delight
Nothing says comfort like a homemade cake, and this Peach Upside-Down Cake is the epitome of simple, delicious indulgence. With its rich brown sugar and butter base, fresh peaches, and a light, fluffy cake layer on top, this dessert is both a treat for the eyes and the taste buds.
This cake is an ideal way to showcase the sweet, juicy flavors of fresh peaches, although frozen peaches can be used as a substitute when fresh fruit is out of season. The combination of tender, caramelized fruit on top with a moist cake beneath creates the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just a cozy dessert at home, this Peach Upside-Down Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Peach Upside-Down Cake
For the Topping:
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 3/4 cup butter, divided and softened
- 2 cups peeled and sliced fresh peaches (can substitute with frozen)
For the Cake Batter:
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 to 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
How to Make Peach Upside-Down Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Topping
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan or microwave, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Once melted, pour it into an ungreased 9-inch round baking pan, ensuring the bottom of the pan is evenly covered.
- Add the Brown Sugar: Sprinkle the brown sugar over the melted butter, creating a caramelized base for the peaches. The brown sugar will give the topping a rich, deep flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruit.
- Arrange the Peaches: Lay the sliced peaches in a single layer on top of the brown sugar and butter mixture. Make sure the peaches are evenly distributed to ensure they cook uniformly and create a beautiful topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Cream the Sugar and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of sugar and the remaining 1/2 cup of softened butter. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the ingredients together until light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, giving the cake a light texture.
- Add the Egg and Flavorings: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream. These ingredients add richness to the cake and contribute to its moist texture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. The cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the peaches.
- Alternate Dry Ingredients with Milk: Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. After each addition, beat the mixture well until smooth. This method ensures the batter remains light and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Spoon the Batter Over the Peaches: Carefully spoon the prepared cake batter over the peach slices, making sure it covers the peaches evenly. You can gently spread the batter with a spatula if needed, but be careful not to disturb the peach layer beneath.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Bake at 350°F: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and firm to the touch. If the cake is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. This short resting time allows the cake to set and makes it easier to invert.
- Invert onto a Serving Plate: After cooling, run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it from the pan. Place a serving plate over the top of the pan and carefully invert the cake. Gently lift the pan off, revealing the beautifully caramelized peach topping.
Tips for Perfect Peach Upside-Down Cake
- Use Fresh, Ripe Peaches: Fresh peaches will provide the best flavor and texture for this cake. If you’re using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the topping.
- Don’t Skip the Butter and Brown Sugar: The combination of butter and brown sugar creates a rich caramelized layer that is essential for the signature flavor of this cake. Be sure to melt the butter and add the sugar evenly to get the best results.
- Check the Cake with a Toothpick: To ensure the cake is baked perfectly, insert a toothpick or cake tester near the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If not, bake for a few more minutes.
- Let the Cake Rest Before Inverting: Allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before inverting helps prevent the topping from sticking to the pan and ensures that the cake holds its shape.
- For a Lighter Cake, Sift the Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour and other dry ingredients will help avoid clumps and ensure a smooth batter. It can also help make the cake lighter and fluffier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits for the topping?
Absolutely! While peaches are traditional for this upside-down cake, you can substitute them with other fruits such as pineapples, pears, or even plums. Just be sure to adjust the baking time depending on the fruit you choose, as some fruits may require slightly longer or shorter baking times.
Can I use a different pan size?
This recipe is designed for a 9-inch round baking pan, but you can use a different size if needed. Just keep in mind that using a larger or smaller pan will affect the cooking time. If you use a larger pan, the batter may spread thinner, requiring a shorter baking time. Conversely, a smaller pan may require a slightly longer bake time.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container. If you want to store it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days, but be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving.
How do I store leftover Peach Upside-Down Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftover cake for longer than that, it’s best to refrigerate it to keep it fresh. For even longer storage, you can freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap each slice in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. Make sure to use a blend that is designed for baking, as this will give the best texture. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly, so keep an eye on the batter’s consistency.
Peach Upside-Down Cake is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet, caramelized peach topping and light, fluffy cake, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying a summer peach harvest or using frozen peaches during the off-season, this cake is always a hit. Try it today, and indulge in the deliciousness of this easy-to-make, flavorful dessert!