Peach Coffee Cake

About Peach Coffee Cake

Peach Coffee Cake is a delightful and comforting dessert that beautifully marries the sweetness of ripe peaches with the soft, buttery goodness of a homemade cake. This scrumptious dish is characterized by its tender crumb, fragrant hints of vanilla, and a delicious streusel topping that adds a wonderful crunch to every bite. The natural sweetness of the peaches provides a juicy contrast to the cake’s texture, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Peach Coffee Cake

Complete Ingredients List

1. For the Cake:

   • 2 cups all-purpose flour
   • 1 cup granulated sugar
   • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
   • ¾ cup milk
   • 2 large eggs
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 2 teaspoons baking powder
   • ½ teaspoon baking soda
   • ½ teaspoon salt
   • 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced

2. For the Streusel Topping:

   • ½ cup all-purpose flour
   • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
   • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
   • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
   • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and substituting milk with almond milk or oat milk.
• Sugar-Free: Try monk fruit sweetener or erythritol as a sugar substitute.
• Fruity Variations: Swap out peaches for nectarines, apricots, or blueberries for a twist on the classic recipe.

How to Make Peach Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for an aromatic flavor boost.

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, and mix until just combined. Fold in the diced peaches gently to distribute them throughout the batter.

Step 3: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon for the streusel topping. Add the melted butter and mix until crumbly. If you’re using nuts, stir them in until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter, making sure to cover it well. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions for Peach Coffee Cake

How to Serve Peach Coffee Cake

Peach Coffee Cake is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Cut the cake into squares and serve on a lovely platter as a delightful centerpiece to your brunch table or dessert spread. For an added touch, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving to give it a festive appearance.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

To elevate your Peach Coffee Cake experience, consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You could also drench it in a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness. Fresh berries on the side would complement the flavors beautifully, or serve it alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Storing & Preserving Peach Coffee Cake

Best Storage Methods

To keep your Peach Coffee Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

If frozen, allow individual slices to defrost in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through to preserve the cake’s moisture and texture. Avoid reheating for too long to prevent drying it out.

Tips for Perfect Peach Coffee Cake Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense texture instead of the light crumb you desire.
• Not Using Ripe Peaches: Opt for fresh, ripe peaches for the sweetest flavor; unripe ones can taste tart and detract from the cake’s overall taste.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat the oven fully to ensure even baking. Investing in an oven thermometer can be a helpful tool.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, milk, and eggs are at room temperature to encourage proper emulsification and a tender crumb.
• Chopping Peaches: Dice peaches uniformly, so they bake evenly and do not sink to the bottom of the cake.
• Testing for Doneness: Besides the toothpick test, lightly pressing the top of the cake can also help determine if it’s done; it should spring back when touched.

Fun Variations of Peach Coffee Cake

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Get creative by adding a layer of cream cheese filling by mixing cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, spreading it over half of the batter before adding the remaining batter and streusel topping. Incorporate spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth, or fold in blueberries for a fruity twist.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use plant-based milk. To create a keto-friendly cake, use almond flour or coconut flour with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia.

FAQs

What If My Peach Coffee Cake Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your cake turns out too dry, it may be due to overbaking. Always keep an eye on the time and perform a toothpick test toward the end of the baking process. If the cake doesn’t rise, check the freshness of your baking powder and soda as expired leavening agents won’t provide the necessary lift.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and streusel topping ahead of time. Store the batter in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and the streusel topping in an airtight container until you’re ready to bake. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking for best results.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If you cannot find fresh peaches or wish to try a different flavor, feel free to substitute with canned peaches (drained) or other fruits like blueberries, apples, or cherries, adjusting baking times if necessary depending on the fruit used. You can also use coconut sugar if you’re looking for a more natural sweetener alternative.

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