Peaches and Cream Layer Cake

Peaches and Cream Layer Cake

Peaches and Cream Layer Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with fluffy whipped cream, all enveloped in soft vanilla cake layers. This indulgent cake is perfect for any occasion, evoking a sense of nostalgia and comfort with each slice. The vibrant, juicy peaches paired with the luscious cream create a sensory delight that will leave your taste buds dancing. In this post, you’ll discover an easy recipe with step-by-step directions to make this delightful cake yourself. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Peaches and Cream Layer Cake is not just a treat for the eyes but also a crowd-pleaser that is easy to prepare. The minimal ingredients and simple steps make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. It’s a versatile dessert, equally suitable for a summer picnic or a cozy family gathering. Plus, the combination of flavors brings a refreshing taste reminiscent of warm afternoons spent picking peaches. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, you’ll love how easy it is to create this stunning cake that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

Let’s gather the ingredients for your Peaches and Cream Layer Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake, providing it with that light and fluffy texture.
• 1 1⁄2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetness is key, and granulated sugar will help achieve that perfect balance.
• 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened: This adds creaminess and richness to your cake.
• 1 cup milk: Milk contributes moisture, making the cake delightful and tender.
• 3 large eggs: Essential for binding and providing structure.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent that gives your cake its airy lift.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This fragrant touch enhances the flavor profile of the cake.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt brings out the flavors in your dessert.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Essential for that cloud-like whipped filling.
• 1⁄2 cup powdered sugar: It sweetens the whipped cream without adding graininess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A second touch of vanilla for the cream, adding depth.
• 3 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced: The star of the show – juicy, flavorful, and bursting with summery goodness.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: A little extra sweetness for the peaches.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: This brightens the flavor of the peaches.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare to Bake

Start your baking journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake layers will rise perfectly during baking. Next, take two 9-inch round cake pans and grease and flour them. This will prevent your cakes from sticking and help them release easily after baking.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a lovely airy base for your cake. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Now, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Don’t forget to mix in the delightful vanilla extract at this point!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing until smooth. This will create a beautifully rich batter.

Bake the Cake Layers

Once your batter is ready, divide it evenly between the prepared cake pans. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Whip the Cream

While the cakes are cooling, it’s time to prepare the creamy filling. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar and the second dose of vanilla extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, which should take another minute or two.

Prepare the Peaches

In a small bowl, toss the peeled and sliced peaches with the granulated sugar and lemon juice. This step enhances the sweetness of the peaches and ensures they are coated with the bright flavor of lemon, balancing the sweetness beautifully.

Assemble Your Layer Cake

Now comes the fun part—assembling your cake! Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top and add half of the sliced peaches. Gently place the second layer of cake on top, repeating the process with whipped cream and the remaining peaches. This creates a beautiful layered effect that’s not just delicious but visually stunning!

Final Touches

Top your cake with any remaining whipped cream, and feel free to arrange some extra peach slices on top for decoration. You now have a breathtaking Peaches and Cream Layer Cake that’s ready to be served!

Tips & Tricks

• Ensure Even Baking: Rotate your cake pans halfway through baking to promote even cooking.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and butter at room temperature helps them to incorporate better for a fluffier texture.
• Whip Your Cream Properly: Be careful not to overwhip the cream; stop once you reach stiff peaks to maintain the delightful creaminess.
• Fresh Peaches: Opt for ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor; you can also substitute with other seasonal fruits like strawberries or blueberries.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Peaches and Cream Layer Cake is perfect for summer barbecues, birthday parties, or family gatherings. Serve it with a side of mint leaves for an extra pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a glass of cold lemonade or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fabulous dessert experience that complements the fruity flavors perfectly.

Nutritional Information

Each slice of Peaches and Cream Layer Cake contains approximately:

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 4g

Eating desserts like this in moderation is part of a balanced diet. Enjoy a slice with friends or family to enrich your mealtime experience!

Storing Tips & Variations

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To enjoy again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

For variations, consider using other fruits like ripe strawberries, mangoes, or even a mix of berries. You can also experiment with adding a layer of lemon curd or a hint of almond extract to the whipped cream for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve explored the delightful Peaches and Cream Layer Cake recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and create this mouth-watering dessert yourself! We encourage you to share your baking experience and any personal twists you give to this charming cake. With its stunning presentation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

FAQs

Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?

Yes! You can use lighter alternatives like whipped topping or a mixture of cream cheese and yogurt if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.

How can I tell if my cake is done baking?

The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your cake is done!

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

While fresh peaches offer the best flavor and texture, you can use canned peaches if you drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

How long will the cake stay fresh?

Properly covered, the cake will remain fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days. It can last for about 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them properly wrapped. Just assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste!

Peaches and Cream Layer Cake

A delightful dessert combining ripe peaches with fluffy whipped cream, all enveloped in soft vanilla cake layers. Perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Cake, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides a light and fluffy texture.
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar Sweetness for balance.
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened Adds creaminess and richness.
• 1 cup milk Contributes moisture.
• 3 large eggs Provides structure.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent for airy lift.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
• 0.5 teaspoon salt Brings out flavors.

Whipped Cream and Peaches

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream For cloud-like whipped filling.
• 0.5 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the whipped cream.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds depth to the cream.
• 3 pieces ripe peaches, peeled and sliced Star ingredient – juicy and flavorful.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar Extra sweetness for peaches.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens the flavor of peaches.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Creaming the Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition along with the vanilla extract.

Mixing Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour.

Baking

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Preparing Filling

1. While cooling, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. In a small bowl, toss peach slices with granulated sugar and lemon juice.

Assembling the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread whipped cream and half of the peaches on top.
2. Add the second layer and repeat the process with whipped cream and remaining peaches.
3. Top with additional whipped cream and peach slices for decoration.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Rotate pans halfway through baking for even cooking.