This Easy Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake is a treat that combines sweet peaches with a touch of bourbon for extra flavor. The cake is soft, buttery, and absolutely mouthwatering!
Let’s be real, the caramelized peaches on top are the star of the show! I love to enjoy this cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Who can resist that? 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are the best for sweetness and juiciness. If they’re not in season, you can use canned peaches. Just drain them well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the cake. If you’re out of butter, coconut oil or vegetable oil can work as a substitute, but the flavor will change a bit.
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and richness. You can make a quick substitute by mixing regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to sour.
Bourbon: It adds a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with peaches. If you want a non-alcoholic version, consider using vanilla extract instead, though the taste will be different.
How Do I Get the Peaches to Caramelize Perfectly?
Caramelizing the peaches is key to achieving that delicious topping. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your butter and brown sugar mixture is evenly spread in the pan—this helps the peaches caramelize nicely.
- Arrange the peach slices tightly, but keep them in a single layer. This way, they cook evenly and provide a lovely presentation.
- Be patient while baking—allow the cake to bake until golden on the edges. It’s done when a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Following these steps will give you that amazing caramelized layer that everyone will love!
Easy Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake
Ingredients:
- 3-4 fresh peaches, sliced thinly (about 3 cups)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Time Estimate:
This delicious cake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake, plus a cooling time of around 10 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour for this delightful dessert!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a round 8-inch cake pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang to make it easier to lift the cake out later.
2. Make the Base:
In the lined pan, pour in the melted butter, then evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over it. This will create a delicious caramel layer.
3. Arrange the Peaches:
Take your thinly sliced peaches and arrange them in a circular pattern on top of the brown sugar mixture. Place the slices tightly but make sure they’re in a single layer. This will allow for the best presentation and flavor!
4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This is your dry mix!
5. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and bourbon whiskey until everything is well combined. This will give your cake a lovely flavor.
6. Combine Mixtures:
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as it can make your cake tough.
7. Add the Batter:
Carefully spoon the cake batter over the arranged peaches. Use a spatula to spread it evenly on top, ensuring all the peaches are covered.
8. Bake the Cake:
Place the cake pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges look golden brown.
9. Cool the Cake:
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it set properly.
10. Invert the Cake:
Run a knife around the edge of the cake to loosen it. Carefully place a plate over the cake pan, then invert the cake onto the plate. Peel off the parchment paper gently.
11. Dust and Decorate:
Let the cake cool slightly before serving. If you like, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
Enjoy the moist, flavorful cake with luscious caramelized bourbon peaches on top! 🍑
FAQ for Easy Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well, patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make This Cake Without Bourbon?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with extra vanilla extract or a splash of apple juice for a similar flavor profile without the alcohol.
What Should I Serve With This Cake?
This cake is delicious on its own, but serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream elevates it even more. A drizzle of caramel sauce would also be a tasty addition!
