Peaches and Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer with its sweet, juicy peaches and smooth, creamy layers. This cake combines tender, moist sponge or chiffon cake infused with fresh peaches, layered generously with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
The natural sweetness of ripe peaches pairs beautifully with the light, airy cream, creating a refreshing and indulgent treat.
Often garnished with additional peach slices or a sprinkle of toasted nuts, this cake is a crowd-pleaser ideal for celebrations or a simple family dessert. Its vibrant flavors and creamy texture make it a timeless favorite.
Peaches and Cream Cake is a delightful, moist dessert that perfectly blends the natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh peaches with a smooth, creamy frosting.
This cake is light yet satisfying, making it an ideal treat for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any special occasion. The layers of tender vanilla cake, fresh peach slices, and whipped cream come together beautifully to create a mouthwatering experience.
Peaches and Cream Cake
Description
Peaches and Cream Cake is a luscious, moist dessert that perfectly blends the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with a rich, creamy frosting.
This cake typically features layers of tender vanilla or yellow sponge soaked lightly with peach syrup or juice, then generously filled and topped with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
Fresh peach slices often decorate the top, adding vibrant color and juicy texture.
This dessert is light yet indulgent, making it ideal for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a fruity, creamy treat. Its delightful balance of flavors makes it a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
For the Filling and Topping:
Instructions
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Start by washing the peaches thoroughly. Peel them if you prefer (peach skins are edible but some like to remove them for a smoother texture). Slice the peaches into thin wedges or small chunks. To keep the peaches from browning, toss the slices gently in lemon juice and set aside.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and lightly dust them with flour or line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color—about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender crumb.
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Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake soft and tender.
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Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
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In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer on medium-high speed. When it starts to thicken, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip or the cream will turn into butter.
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Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top. Arrange a layer of peach slices evenly on the whipped cream. Place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. Decorate with more peach slices or small peach chunks for a pretty finish.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Cholesterol 70mg24%
- Sodium 250mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 35g
- Protein 5g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Peaches and Cream Cake: Tips, Tricks, and Serving Ideas
Peaches and Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh peaches with the rich, smooth texture of creamy frosting or filling.
Whether you’re baking it for a summer gathering, a birthday, or simply a special treat, a few handy tips and tricks can help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
1. Choosing the Right Peaches
The key to a delicious peaches and cream cake starts with the peaches. For the best flavor and texture, use ripe, fresh peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant. Freestone peaches are easier to peel and slice, which makes preparation simpler. If fresh peaches aren’t in season, you can use frozen peaches—just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your cake.
2. Preparing the Peaches
Peeling peaches can be tricky because of their fuzzy skin, but a quick blanching technique works wonders. Score a small “X” on the bottom of each peach, dip them into boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to ice water. The skins will loosen, making them easy to peel. Slice the peaches evenly for uniform baking and aesthetic layering.
3. Balancing Sweetness
Since peaches are naturally sweet, adjust your cake’s sugar content accordingly. If your peaches are very ripe and sugary, reduce the sugar in your cake batter or frosting slightly to avoid an overly sweet dessert. Adding a touch of lemon juice or zest to the peaches or cream filling can also enhance flavor complexity by balancing the sweetness with a subtle tang.
4. Cake Base: Choosing the Right Texture
A moist, tender cake works best to complement the peaches and cream. Yellow cake, vanilla sponge, or chiffon cakes are ideal bases because they provide a soft texture without overpowering the fruit’s flavor. Avoid dense cakes like pound cake, which may compete with the delicate peaches.
5. Cream Filling and Frosting
For the creamy component, classic options include whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or mascarpone-based fillings. Whipped cream offers a light, airy texture, while cream cheese adds tanginess and richness. Mascarpone blends the best of both worlds with its smooth, slightly sweet flavor. Whichever you choose, be sure to whip the cream to soft peaks to maintain fluffiness without turning it into butter.
6. Layering the Cake
When assembling, layer the cake and peaches carefully to avoid sogginess. You can macerate the peach slices briefly with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to draw out juices, but drain them well before layering. Spread a thin layer of cream between cake layers, add peach slices, then cover with more cream and cake. This layering keeps the cake moist yet firm.
7. Decorating Tips
Peach slices on top of the cake add beautiful, natural decoration. Arrange them in a fan or circular pattern for an eye-catching finish. For extra flair, sprinkle toasted almond slivers or crushed pistachios over the cream topping to add crunch and contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar also enhances the visual appeal.
8. Storing the Cake
Because of the fresh fruit and cream, peaches and cream cake should be stored in the refrigerator. Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 2-3 days. For best taste and texture, consume within this period.
9. Serving Suggestions
Serve peaches and cream cake chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea, fresh berries on the side, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. For a festive touch, garnish individual slices with a sprig of fresh mint or edible flowers.
10. Variations to Try
- Peach Melba Cake: Add raspberries along with peaches for a classic fruit combination.
- Spiced Peach Cake: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter or cream for warm spice notes.
- Peach and Cream Parfait: Layer cake crumbs, peaches, and cream in individual glasses for a no-fuss alternative.
Serving Size and Tips
A typical peaches and cream cake baked in a 9-inch round pan serves 8-10 people comfortably. If you want smaller portions for a party, cut the cake into petite squares or serve as mini cupcakes with peach and cream frosting on top.
For larger gatherings, consider baking two smaller cakes and stacking them or making a sheet cake version. This way, you can offer variety and easy serving without fuss.
Tips for Success
- Choosing Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If fresh peaches aren’t available, frozen peaches (thawed and drained) can work, but fresh is best.
- Whipping Cream: Chill your bowl and beaters for easier whipping. Start slow and increase speed for a smooth, airy texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cake layers a day ahead and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. Whip the cream and assemble the cake just before serving for freshness.
- Variations: For an extra touch, add a splash of peach schnapps or vanilla extract to the whipped cream. You can also sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans on top for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Peaches and Cream Cake is wonderful served chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or a glass of sparkling wine for celebrations. Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 320-350 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 4g
This Peaches and Cream Cake recipe combines the best of summer’s bounty with creamy indulgence, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. Whether for a family dinner or a party, it’s sure to impress with its fresh flavors and moist texture. Enjoy your baking!
In summary, peaches and cream cake is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert. With the right peaches, balanced sweetness, and careful layering of moist cake and luscious cream, you can create a stunning centerpiece for any occasion.
Whether you keep it simple or add your own creative twists, this cake never fails to impress with its fresh, summery charm.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peaches and Cream Cake?
Peaches and Cream Cake is a moist, tender cake that combines the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh or canned peaches with a creamy, often vanilla-flavored frosting or filling.
It’s a popular dessert especially in summer when peaches are in season.
The cake layers are typically light and fluffy, and the cream adds a smooth, rich texture that complements the fruit perfectly.
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh peaches?
Yes, canned peaches can be used as a convenient alternative when fresh peaches are out of season or unavailable.
Just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cake, which can make it soggy.
You can also lightly pat them dry with paper towels. Using fresh peaches, however, will give the best natural flavor and texture.
How do I keep the cake moist?
To keep your Peaches and Cream Cake moist, use ingredients like sour cream, yogurt, or buttermilk in the batter. These add tenderness and moisture.
Also, avoid overbaking — bake just until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Wrapping the cake in plastic wrap once cooled and refrigerating will help maintain its moisture, especially if it has a cream-based frosting.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Peaches and Cream Cake can be made a day or two in advance. In fact, chilling the cake overnight helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Just store it covered in the refrigerator to keep the cream fresh. If you’re using fresh peaches, it’s best to add any fresh peach slices just before serving to keep them vibrant and prevent browning.
