Summer Peach Cake is soft, buttery, and bursting with juicy peach flavor—like a warm slice of summer in every bite! This easy, crowd-pleasing cake highlights fresh peaches on a light vanilla base, finished with a golden, sugary top. Whether served for brunch, dessert, or alongside tea on the patio, this cake is sunshine you can slice.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Summer Peach Cake
- Fresh peach magic: Sweet, ripe peaches melt into the batter and create a juicy, caramelized topping.
- Simple, one-pan wonder: No layering or frosting—just mix, top with peaches, and bake.
- Perfect for peach season: Use fresh summer peaches at their juiciest for the best flavor.
- Versatile and beautiful: Serve warm with ice cream, or cool with whipped cream or on its own.
- Beginner-friendly: No need to be a baking pro—this cake is easy enough for anyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Ripe peaches (sliced) | 4 medium |
All-purpose flour | 1½ cups |
Baking powder | 1½ tsp |
Salt | ½ tsp |
Unsalted butter (softened) | 6 tbsp |
Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
Egg | 1 large |
Buttermilk | ½ cup |
Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
Sparkling sugar (optional) | 1 tbsp |
Optional Add-Ins:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for warmth
- Use sour cream instead of buttermilk for a richer texture
- Mix brown sugar with the peach slices for a caramelized effect
How to Make Summer Peach Cake
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Bring it All Together
Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Add the Peaches
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Arrange peach slices on top in a circular pattern. Sprinkle with sparkling sugar for a golden finish.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use ripe but firm peaches for the best balance of flavor and structure.
- Room temp ingredients ensure a smooth, evenly mixed batter.
- Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
- Chill your peaches briefly if they’re too juicy—they’ll be easier to slice.
- Dust the peaches with flour before placing on top to help them stay afloat in the batter.
Health and Nutrition
Summer Peach Cake is a feel-good seasonal treat, perfect for balanced indulgence.
- Calories per slice (1/10 cake): ~227
- Contains dairy, gluten, and egg—not suitable for those with related allergies
- Fresh fruit bonus: Peaches bring in fiber, vitamins A & C
- Simple ingredients, no artificial additives
FAQs
Can I use canned or frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Yes! Drain canned peaches well, or thaw and pat dry frozen ones to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. Bake the night before and store at room temp (covered) for up to 2 days.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Make your own by adding 1½ tsp of lemon juice or vinegar to ½ cup milk. Let sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and warm slices before serving.
Do I need to peel the peaches?
Totally optional! The skins soften while baking, but feel free to peel if you prefer a smoother texture.

Summer Peach Cake
Ingredients
- 4 medium ripe peaches sliced
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp sparkling sugar optional
- Optional Add-Ins:
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cinnamon
- Sour cream instead of buttermilk
- Brown sugar mixed with peaches for caramelization
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- Beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, mix until smooth.
- Gradually alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Pour batter into pan and arrange peach slices on top. Sprinkle with sparkling sugar.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.