Summer Peach Cake
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that screams summer, then this Summer Peach Cake is just what you need! Imagine biting into a slice of this tender cake, bursting with juicy peaches and the sweet aroma of vanilla. It’s the perfect treat for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and it captures the essence of summer in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this cake again and again!
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. You can enjoy it on its own or serve it with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra special touch. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making this Summer Peach Cake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: You can have this cake in the oven in just 15 minutes! It’s perfect for last-minute guests or when you want something sweet in a hurry.
- Family-friendly: Kids love the sweetness of peaches, making it a hit at any family meal. Plus, they can help with mixing and arranging the peach slices!
- Versatile serving options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with your favorite dairy-free ice cream. There are so many ways to savor this cake!
- Make-ahead convenience: This cake keeps well for several days, so you can bake ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Incredible flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and fluffy cake makes each bite taste like sunshine.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this amazing Summer Peach Cake. You may already have some of these in your kitchen!
For the Cake
- 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
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider these fun twists:
* Cinnamon for warmth
* Sour cream instead of buttermilk for extra moisture
* Brown sugar mixed with peaches for caramelization
Variations
The beauty of this Summer Peach Cake is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to customize your cake:
- Add berries: Mix in blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist that pairs perfectly with peaches.
- Try different fruits: Swap out peaches for fresh nectarines or plums—both will add their unique flavors.
- Experiment with spices: A dash of nutmeg or cardamom can elevate the flavor profile and surprise your taste buds.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary preferences.
How to Make Summer Peach Cake
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This helps prevent sticking and makes transferring your lovely cake much easier later!
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important because it evenly distributes the leavening agent throughout the flour, ensuring your cake rises perfectly.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, creating a tender crumb in your cake. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually alternate adding your dry ingredients with buttermilk into the butter mixture. Mixing until just combined ensures you don’t overwork the batter—this keeps your cake light!
Step 6: Add Peaches
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and arrange those beautiful peach slices on top. Sprinkle sparkling sugar over them if desired; it adds a lovely crunch once baked.
Step 7: Bake!
Place your masterpiece in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to a rack—this helps maintain its shape.
Now that you’ve made this delightful Summer Peach Cake, get ready to enjoy every slice! It’s sure to bring joy to any gathering or simply brighten up your day at home.
Pro Tips for Making Summer Peach Cake
Making a delicious Summer Peach Cake is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.
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Use ripe peaches: The flavor of your cake largely depends on the quality of the peaches. Ripe peaches will give you a sweet, juicy burst that complements the tender cake beautifully.
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Don’t overmix the batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light texture we’re aiming for.
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Let it cool before serving: Allowing your cake to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan helps it set and makes it easier to slice without crumbling.
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Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add a dash of cinnamon or substitute sour cream for buttermilk. These little tweaks can elevate the flavor profile and make your cake uniquely yours.
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Store it properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh!
How to Serve Summer Peach Cake
The way you present your Summer Peach Cake can enhance its appeal and turn an ordinary dessert into something special. Here are some creative ideas to serve this delightful dish.
Garnishes
- Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the peaches.
- Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream drizzled on top adds a creamy texture and complements the fruit beautifully.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside your slice of peach cake creates a classic pairing that’s hard to resist.
- Berry salad: A light salad made with mixed berries adds freshness and tanginess, balancing out the sweetness of the cake.
- Lemonade or iced tea: Serve with a tall glass of lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing drink that enhances those summer vibes.
- Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a light side that complements the rich flavors of your peach cake.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful Summer Peach Cake, whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as an afternoon treat!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Summer Peach Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week or share it with friends and family.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
- Cover with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label the bag with the date and type of cake.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw slices overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- For a warm slice, microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions that may help enhance your baking experience.
Can I use other fruits instead of peaches in my Summer Peach Cake?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with other seasonal fruits like nectarines, plums, or even berries. Each will add its own unique flavor to the cake.
How can I make my Summer Peach Cake more flavorful?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You might also mix some brown sugar with the peach slices before adding them on top for an extra caramelized touch!
Can I prepare this Summer Peach Cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. Just follow the storage guidelines above to keep it fresh.
Is there a dairy-free option for this Summer Peach Cake?
You can substitute buttermilk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk mixed with a bit of lemon juice. This will give you a similar texture without dairy.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this delightful Summer Peach Cake as much as I do! Its light and tender texture paired with juicy peaches truly captures the essence of summer. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or savoring it on your own, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!
Summer Peach Cake
Indulge in the essence of summer with this delightful Summer Peach Cake, bursting with juicy peaches and aromatic vanilla. This tender cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering. In just a short time, you can prepare this easy recipe that captures the sweetness of ripe peaches and offers a light, fluffy texture in every bite. Serve it plain, topped with whipped coconut cream, or alongside a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk to the butter mixture until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and arrange peach slices on top. Sprinkle with sparkling sugar if desired.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (66g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg