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Perfect Caramelized Peach Upside-Down Cake

caramelized peach upside-down cake - featured image

A tender, buttery upside-down cake featuring caramelized peaches with a rich, sticky glaze. Perfect for summer parties and simple celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan thoroughly with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then sprinkle 3/4 cup of brown sugar evenly across the bottom.
  2. Peel and pit the peaches, then slice into 1/4-inch thick wedges. Toss the slices gently with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
  3. In a small skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the peach slices and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning carefully to caramelize and soften them. Remove from heat and arrange peaches over the brown sugar layer in the cake pan.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, then add milk and vanilla extract. Stir wet ingredients into dry until just combined.
  5. Pour the batter evenly over the caramelized peaches in the pan.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and edges pull slightly away from the pan.
  7. Cool the cake in the pan on a rack for 10 minutes.
  8. Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully invert the cake. Tap the bottom gently to release the cake.
  9. Serve warm or at room temperature, ideally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake. Caramelize peaches gently to develop flavor without sogginess. Cool cake only 10 minutes before flipping to prevent sticking. Use room temperature eggs and milk for best texture. For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free baking flour blend. Vegan adaptations possible with flax egg and dairy-free substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramelized peach cake, upside-down cake, summer dessert, peach dessert, easy cake recipe, caramel peach cake, summer parties dessert