Fragrant Peach Cake: A Moist and Luscious Delight
If you’re a fan of fruit desserts, this fragrant peach cake is a must-try. The combination of peaches with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a rich, yet balanced flavor that’s simply irresistible. This cake is perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or even as a delightful breakfast treat. The use of whole wheat flour adds a subtle nutty flavor, while the yogurt keeps the cake moist and tender. Here’s how you can make this luscious 9-inch peach cake at home.
Ingredients:
- 6 oz butter, softened
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- 1 ¼ cups low-fat plain yogurt
- 4 peaches, pitted and sliced
- 1 pinch of salt
Directions:
Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the lemon zest and yogurt, mixing well to combine.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These spices will add warmth and depth to the cake, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the peaches.
Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in 3 to 4 additions. Use a spatula to gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Prepare the Cake Pan: Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter, ensuring the sides and bottom are well-coated. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Top with Peaches: Arrange the sliced peaches on top of the batter in a decorative pattern. The peaches will sink slightly into the cake as it bakes, creating a beautiful and flavorful topping.
Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be fragrant and the top slightly crisp.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, and enjoy its moist texture and vibrant flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Peach Cake:
- Fresh vs. Canned Peaches: While fresh peaches are ideal for this recipe, you can also use canned peaches when they’re out of season. Just be sure to drain them well.
- Add a Crunch: For extra texture, consider sprinkling some sliced almonds or a streusel topping on the cake before baking.
- Serve with a Side: Pair the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Conclusion
This fragrant peach cake is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of summer. The moist, tender crumb combined with the juicy peaches makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Simple to make, yet impressive in presentation, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.