Summer Peach Cake

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.

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

IngredientAmount
Ripe peaches (sliced)4 medium
All-purpose flour1½ cups
Baking powder1½ tsp
Salt½ tsp
Unsalted butter (softened)6 tbsp
Granulated sugar1 cup
Egg1 large
Buttermilk½ cup
Vanilla extract2 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 with glaze

Summer Peach Cake

Chef Bella
Summer Peach Cake is a light, tender cake bursting with juicy peaches, perfect for warm days. This dessert captures the essence of summer in every bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 servings
Calories 280 kcal

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.

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