As the sweet scent of summer wafts through my kitchen, I can't help but think of the delightful Easy Peach and Cream Cake that’s become a cherished favorite among friends and family. This dessert beautifully marries moist vanilla cake with juicy peaches, creating a dreamy experience that’s reminiscent of warm, carefree days. What’s even better? This cake is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings, and it comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for busy home chefs. Topped with a creamy blend of cream cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, each bite is an indulgent whirl of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. Curious about how to whip up this delectable treat? Let’s dive in!
Why is Peaches and Cream Cake a Must-Try?
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This cake will steal the spotlight at any gathering, making it the ultimate dessert for family cookouts or potlucks.
Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can create this delightful treat without any fuss.
Rich, Creamy Topping: The cream cheese blend adds a luxurious layer that perfectly complements the sweetness of the peaches.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap out peaches for seasonal fruits or try adding a streusel topping for some crunch!
Nostalgic Flavor: The comforting blend of flavors creates a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of classic Southern desserts like a peach cobbler.
Explore more delicious variations like Peaches Cream Cookies to further delight your taste buds!
Peaches and Cream Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All Purpose Flour – Provides structure and helps the cake rise perfectly.
• Baking Powder – A leavening agent essential for making the cake light and airy.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds the perfect touch of sweetness and moisture.
• Cornstarch – Contributes to a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Whole Milk – Brings moisture and richness to the batter.
• Vegetable Oil – Ensures a moist and tender crumb.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and helps with rising.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses the cake with warm, comforting flavor depth.
• Sliced Peaches (canned) – Provides fruity flavor and juiciness; fresh peaches also work beautifully!
For the Topping
• Cream Cheese – Creates an indulgent and rich topping; mascarpone can be used for a lighter alternative.
• Peach Juice – Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese topping; reserve from canned peaches for maximum peachiness.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm, sweet spice that beautifully complements the toppings.
• Additional Sugar (Cinnamon Sugar Mix) – Sweetens and gives a delightful crunch to the topping.
Now that you have all the ingredients, it's time to let your kitchen become a haven of sweet aromas and irresistible flavors! Enjoy every moment of making this Peaches and Cream Cake.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peaches and Cream Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure your Peaches and Cream Cake releases easily after baking. This foundational step sets the stage for a beautifully baked cake.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended; this will help the Peaches and Cream Cake achieve a light and airy texture as it bakes.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be smooth, with a few small lumps remaining—this indicates it will remain moist and fluffy when baked.
Step 4: Add Peaches
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, ensuring it's nice and smooth. Next, gently fold in the roughly chopped sliced peaches, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. This step is crucial, as the peaches will create delightful pockets of sweetness in your Peaches and Cream Cake.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in the reserved peach juice, combining until it forms a creamy, spreadable mixture. Spoon this mixture over the peach layer in the batter, spreading it gently with a spatula to create a luscious topping on your cake.
Step 6: Sprinkle Topping
Sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the cream cheese layer. This addition will create a lovely sweet and slightly crispy crust as the Peaches and Cream Cake bakes, enhancing both the flavor and presentation of your delightful dessert.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The cake is done when the edges are golden brown and set, while the center should have a slight jiggle. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes, as each oven varies for the perfect bake.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the Peaches and Cream Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period will allow the cake to firm up for easier slicing and enhance the overall texture, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Peaches and Cream Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert and make it your own!
- Stone Fruit Swap: Use sliced nectarines or apricots instead of peaches for a unique twist. The cake will still burst with sweetness!
- Streusel Topping: Add a crunchy streusel on top for extra texture. Combine flour, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly before sprinkling on top.
- Greek Yogurt Replacement: Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter topping that’s still rich in flavor. It’s a wonderful spin!
- Flavor Boost: Try adding almond extract along with the vanilla for a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the peaches. Just a drop makes a difference!
- Different Juices: Use orange or pineapple juice instead of peach juice to vary the cream cheese flavor—each fruit brings its own joy!
- Vegan Style: For a vegan option, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the topping. You won’t sacrifice flavor!
- Heat it Up: Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the cinnamon sugar for a sweet and spicy kick. Perfect for those who like a bit of heat!
- Chilled Dessert: Transform it into a semi-freddo by freezing the batter before baking, resulting in a frozen delight reminiscent of summer days.
Looking for more inspirations? You might enjoy this recipe for Chocolate Pudding Cake or whip up some lovely Vegan Cacao Cream for a tasty treat!
What to Serve with Easy Peach and Cream Cake
There’s something beautifully satisfying about pairing this sweet dessert with complementary flavors to create a delicious dining experience.
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Whipped Cream:
A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy topping. -
Vanilla Ice Cream:
The rich creaminess of vanilla ice cream enhances the peach flavors and offers a delightful contrast to the warm cake. -
Fresh Berries:
Juicy raspberries or tart blackberries provide a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness and adds a pop of color. -
Sliced Almonds:
Toasted sliced almonds add a satisfying crunch and a hint of nuttiness that elevates the cake’s flavor profile. -
Sparkling Lemonade:
A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade cleanses the palate, making it the perfect drink to serve alongside this dessert. -
Coffee or Espresso:
A warm mug of coffee or espresso beautifully complements the cake’s sweetness, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere for dessert. -
Peach Sorbet:
For a fruity twist, serve peach sorbet on the side for an extra layer of peach flavor that’s refreshing on warm days.
Creating the perfect pairing enhances the entire experience of enjoying your Easy Peach and Cream Cake, making every bite an invitation to savor the moment.
How to Store and Freeze Peaches and Cream Cake
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the cake moist and creamy.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: Gently warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive its freshness.
Note: Avoid freezing the cream cheese topping separately, as it can change texture. Store the Peaches and Cream Cake whole for the best results!
Expert Tips for Peaches and Cream Cake
• Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending; this will help create a smooth topping without lumps.
• Fresh Peach Selection: If opting for fresh peaches, select ripe and fragrant ones for maximum flavor; underripe peaches can leave your cake lacking sweetness.
• Watch the Bake Time: Baking times may vary based on your oven, so start checking around the 50-minute mark for golden edges and a slightly jiggly center; this ensures a perfect Peaches and Cream Cake texture.
• Cooling is Key: Allow your cake to cool completely before slicing to improve its texture; cutting too soon may result in a messy presentation.
• Customize for Enjoyment: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or toppings—like adding a streusel for crunch—to keep things exciting and unique!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Peaches and Cream Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising on taste! You can prepare the batter and slice peaches up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the chopped peaches in a bowl covered with plastic wrap to prevent browning. When you're ready to bake, just spread the batter in the pan, fold in the peaches, and continue with the cream cheese topping. If you want to take it a step further, bake the cake up to 3 days ahead of your gathering—just allow it to cool completely before covering with plastic wrap. Reheat for a few minutes in the oven to refresh the flavors before serving, and enjoy the same deliciousness with minimal effort!
Peaches and Cream Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of peaches should I use for this cake?
Absolutely! You can use either canned or fresh peaches for this Peaches and Cream Cake. If you're using fresh peaches, make sure they are ripe, yielding slightly to pressure and fragrant. Canned peaches work wonderfully too—just drain them and reserve the juice for the cream cheese topping.
How should I store leftover Peaches and Cream Cake?
For short-term storage, place the leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain moisture and creaminess. If you want to keep it longer, wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil allows you to freeze them for up to 2 months. Simply thaw them in the fridge overnight when you're ready to enjoy a slice!
Can I freeze the Peaches and Cream Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! To do so, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The Peaches and Cream Cake can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy!
What should I do if my cake is undercooked?
If your Peaches and Cream Cake is undercooked and the center still jiggles, don’t panic! Simply return it to the oven, covering it loosely with foil to prevent browning, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Check for doneness again; you want the edges firm and a slight jiggle in the center, which will firm up as it cools.
Is this Peaches and Cream Cake suitable for those with allergies?
This cake contains common allergens like dairy, gluten, and eggs. If you need to make substitutions, consider using gluten-free flour blends, dairy-free cream cheese, or egg replacements like applesauce or flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Always check labels to ensure other ingredients are allergy-friendly.
Irresistible Peaches and Cream Cake for Sweet Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cornstarch and whisk together.
- Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients, stir until just combined.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan and fold in sliced peaches.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in reserved peach juice and spread it over the batter.
- Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown and set in the edges.
- Cool the cake in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
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