Brown Sugar Peach Cake

A moist, tender cake bursting with juicy peaches and rich brown sugar flavor, this Brown Sugar Peach Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate peach season. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or cooled as a midday treat, it’s sure to win hearts with its comforting texture and delightful sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is all about summer comfort. The caramel-like richness of brown sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches, while the soft crumb of the cake offers a bakery-quality dessert you can make easily at home. You’ll love how it fills your kitchen with a sweet, fruity aroma and how effortlessly it impresses at gatherings.

• Easy to prepare with pantry staples
• Perfect for fresh, ripe peaches
• Moist and fluffy texture
• Great served warm or at room temperature
• Delicious with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Unsalted butter
• Light or dark brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Large eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for texture

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
5. Mix in the sour cream or Greek yogurt until smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Gently fold in the peach slices (and nuts, if using).
8. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool in the pan before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 40–45 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Peach Upside-Down Cake: Layer peach slices at the bottom of the pan with extra brown sugar before adding the batter.
• Add spices: Try a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a twist on flavor.
• Other fruits: Substitute part of the peaches with nectarines, apricots, or berries.
• Nutty Crunch: Add streusel topping with oats and brown sugar for a crunchy top layer.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or place the whole cake (covered with foil) in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

How ripe should the peaches be for this cake?

Use ripe but firm peaches for the best flavor and texture. Overripe peaches may become too mushy when baked.

Can I use canned or frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned (drained) or frozen (thawed and patted dry) peaches if fresh ones are not in season.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely. You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Why is brown sugar used instead of white?

Brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel-like depth of flavor that complements the peaches beautifully.

Do I need to peel the peaches?

Peeling is optional, but it results in a smoother texture. Unpeeled peaches can add a rustic feel.

Can I make this in a bundt pan?

Yes, but adjust the baking time to 50–60 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.

How can I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?

Make sure to pat the peaches dry before folding them into the batter and avoid overmixing.

Is this cake good served cold?

Yes, it’s delicious chilled, though warming it slightly brings out the flavors even more.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Peach Cake is a warm, inviting dessert that celebrates the beauty of fresh peaches. With its rich, moist crumb and ease of preparation, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a slice of home-baked goodness. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or cold from the fridge—it’s delightful either way.

Print