Name: Delightfully Moist Peach Cake with Fresh Thyme Compote
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 290 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Any neutral oil like canola); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Feel free to reduce for less sweetness); 1 large Egg (Can substitute with two egg whites for vegan option); 1 large Egg Yolk (Flaxseed meal can be used as a replacement); 1 cup Yogurt (Greek or Turkish) (Applesauce is a great low-fat substitute); 1 cup Pastry Flour (All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Peaches (fresh and pureed) (Canned peaches can be used if drained); 2 cups Fresh Peaches (Chopped); 1/4 cup Sugar (Adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Essential for flavor balance); 1 tablespoon Thyme (Fresh thyme enhances the flavor); 2 sheets Gelatin Sheets (Agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian alternative)

As the sun shines brightly and summer unfolds, I find myself daydreaming about afternoons filled with the sweet scent of ripe peaches wafting through my kitchen. That's where this Moist Yogurt Peach Cake comes into play, a recipe that's not only easy to whip up but also delivers a light, fluffy texture that's perfect for the season. Enhanced with a fresh peach and thyme compote, it's a stunning centerpiece for any gathering or simply a delightful treat for yourself. Plus, this cake is a great choice for those seeking a gluten-free alternative or anyone wanting a healthier dessert option without sacrificing flavor. Isn't it time we traded fast food for the joy of homemade goodness? Let's dive into making this unforgettable summer dessert!

Why is this Peach Cake irresistible?

Irresistible Flavors: The combination of fresh peaches and fragrant thyme creates a cake that bursts with summer essence.
Healthier Option: Yogurt makes this recipe a lighter choice, perfect for those watching their diet without compromising taste.
Versatile Variations: Swap peaches for your favorite fruits like cherries or strawberries to customize this treat for any occasion.
Simple Baking: With straightforward instructions and minimal ingredients, it's accessible for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Crowd Favorite: This cake is sure to impress at gatherings, offering a stunning presentation and a delightful fresh taste that everyone will love!

Peach Cake Ingredients

Get ready to gather fresh flavors for this delightful treat!

For the Batter

Vegetable Oil – Provides moisture and richness; any neutral oil like canola works well.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and enhances browning; feel free to reduce for a less sweet cake.
Egg – Acts as a binder for structure; two egg whites can be substituted for a vegan option.
Egg Yolk – Adds richness and moisture; consider flaxseed meal as a replacement if needed.
Yogurt (Greek or Turkish) – Offers moisture and a tender crumb; applesauce is a great low-fat substitute.
Pastry Flour – Ensures a light, tender texture; you can swap in all-purpose flour if that's what you have.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents help the cake rise perfectly.
Salt – Balances flavors beautifully.
Peaches (fresh and pureed) – Provide flavor and moisture; canned peaches can work if drained well.

For the Compote

Fresh Peaches – Adds a vibrant taste; feel free to mix in other fruits like cherries or strawberries for a unique twist.
Sugar – Sweetens the compote; adjust to your taste preferences.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor profile; essential for balance.
Thyme – Adds an aromatic touch; fresh thyme enhances the cake beautifully!
Gelatin Sheets – Helps set the compote for a lovely texture; agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian alternative.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Moist Yogurt Peach Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). While the oven warms up, take a 15cm round cake pan and line it with parchment paper, ensuring the bottom is well-covered to prevent sticking. Grease the sides lightly with vegetable oil to promote easy removal once your peach cake is baked.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, eggs, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This yogurt mixture will add moisture and richness to your moist yogurt peach cake, so ensure it’s well-blended before proceeding.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the pastry flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents, contributing to the cake’s fluffy texture. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to prevent overmixing.

Step 4: Incorporate the Peaches
Carefully fold in the fresh peach pieces to the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. This will enhance the cake’s flavor and provide delightful bursts of peach in every bite. Once the peaches are incorporated, pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the cake pan in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake; it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow your peach cake to cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare the Compote
In a medium saucepan, combine fresh peach segments, a little sugar, lemon juice, and thyme. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peaches soften and release their juices. This fragrant peach and thyme compote will complement your cake beautifully, adding a fresh and aromatic topping.

Step 7: Mix in the Gelatin
Soak the gelatin sheets in cold water for a few minutes until softened. Gently stir them into the warm peach compote until fully dissolved. This step will help set the compote, creating a luscious layer that will sit atop your cooled yogurt peach cake. Remove the compote from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake has completely cooled, place it back in the mousse ring or on your serving plate. Carefully pour the cooled peach compote over the top, using an offset spatula to smooth it out evenly. Ensure the compote covers the entire surface for a beautiful presentation.

Step 9: Chill the Cake
Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours to allow the compote to set properly. This chilling time is essential for melding the flavors together, making your moist yogurt peach cake a refreshing summer dessert that's sure to delight everyone.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
After the chilling period, gently remove the mousse ring from the cake. Slice yourself a generous piece and serve chilled, garnished with fresh thyme for an elegant touch. This delightful peach cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual feast for the eyes!

Peach Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with these tempting ideas and tailor the recipe to your taste buds!

Fruit Swap: Substitute peaches with apples, pears, cherries, or strawberries based on the season. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness and flavor!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour in place of pastry flour for a delightful gluten-free peach cake that still maintains its lovely moistness.
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly alternative.
Dairy-Free: Substitute yogurt with coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option without compromising taste.
Flavor Booster: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the batter for a deeper flavor profile that complements the peaches beautifully.
Spice It Up: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and depth. This twist brings out the flavors of the fruit even more.
Fruit Compote Variation: Mix other fruits, like raspberries or blueberries, into the peach compote for a fruity explosion of flavor. The tangy berries add a lovely contrast to the sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for a crunchy texture that contrasts the softness of the cake. It’s the perfect way to add a delightful twist to your peach cake.

For more delicious ideas, why not explore variations of our cake recipes? I recommend checking out our Chocolate Pudding Cake or the delightful Ice Cream Cake for more inspiration.

Storage Tips for Peach Cake

Fridge: Keep any leftover peach cake covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its delicious moistness and keeps it fresh for your next serving.

Freezer: While it's best not to freeze the cake due to potential texture changes, if you must, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Reheating: If you enjoy your peach cake warmed, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This will slightly melt the compote and enhance its flavors.

Assembly Tip: Always chill your assembled peach cake for at least 4 hours before serving to ensure the compote sets properly and the flavors meld beautifully.

Expert Tips for Perfect Peach Cake

Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the batter to keep the cake light and airy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture that strays from the ideal moist cake.
Cool Completely: Make sure your peach cake is completely cool before adding the compote. This helps prevent the compote from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This prevents sticking and maintains the cake's lovely shape.
Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the cake; it should come out clean. If it has batter on it, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Customize the Compote: Don’t hesitate to mix fruits! Peaches are delightful, but cherries or strawberries can add a fun twist to your summer dessert.

What to Serve with Moist Yogurt Peach Cake

As you savor each bite of this delightful cake, let your imagination wander to the array of complementary dishes that can elevate your dessert experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, rich texture melts beautifully against the fluffy cake, enhancing the refreshing peach flavors.
Citrus Salad: A bright mix of oranges and grapefruits awakens your palate and adds a zesty contrast to the cake's sweetness.
Honey Yogurt Dip: Serve with a dollop of honey-sweetened yogurt, which adds creaminess while tying in the yogurt from the cake for cohesion.
Sparkling Lemonade: The fizzy, tangy drink offers a refreshing lift alongside the moist cake, perfect for a summer gathering.
Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnishing the plate with fresh mint not only brightens the presentation but also adds an aromatic, herbaceous note.
Berry Compote: A warm berry topping could provide a beautiful, contrasting flavor that complements the cake’s moist, peachy essence.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle a bit of granola on top for a delightful crunch that balances the soft cake texture with earthy notes.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle a light chocolate sauce over the cake for an indulgent twist that appeals to chocolate lovers.
Chilled White Wine: Pairing with a glass of chilled white wine can enhance the peach notes while creating a sophisticated dessert experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Moist Yogurt Peach Cakes are a wonderful choice for meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients (just leave out the peaches) and storing it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the peach and thyme compote and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, which allows the flavors to meld. When you're ready to bake, simply fold in the fresh peach pieces, pour the batter into the pan, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings!

Peach Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe peaches for the cake?
Absolutely! When choosing peaches, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma. The skin should be free of dark spots and bruises. If they’re too firm, let them ripen at room temperature for a couple of days until they yield slightly when pressed.

How should I store leftover peach cake?
To maintain its moistness, cover any leftover peach cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. This ensures that each slice remains fresh and delightful for your next craving!

Can I freeze the moist yogurt peach cake?
While I recommend against freezing the whole cake due to texture changes, if needed, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and store them in an airtight container. They should stay fresh for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently warm in the microwave if desired.

What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
Very! If your cake sinks, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not properly measuring the ingredients. To avoid this, mix until just combined and always use the correct amount of baking powder and soda. If the cake has already sunk, you can try slicing it and serving it with a bit more compote or cream on top to mask the appearance.

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Yes! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the pastry flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to help with the cake's structure. This way, you can enjoy the same fabulous flavors without compromising on dietary needs.

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches can be used if fresh ones are out of season. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into the batter. This will enhance the flavor without impacting the cake's moisture content!