If you’re craving a summer dessert that combines the freshness of peaches with the richness of a crumbly coffee cake, this Peach Coffee Cake recipe is for you. With its moist cake base, juicy peach filling, and a delightful streusel topping, it’s the perfect treat for any gathering—whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients Overview
This recipe requires a blend of fresh, simple ingredients that, when combined, create a delicious balance of flavors and textures:
- Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are the star of this recipe. Their natural sweetness elevates the entire cake. You can also use frozen or canned peaches if fresh ones aren’t available.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake while maintaining its tender texture.
- Butter: Adds moisture and richness to the cake and streusel topping.
- Eggs: Essential for structure and adding fluffiness.
- Brown and granulated sugar: Brown sugar is used in the topping for a deeper, molasses-like flavor, while granulated sugar sweetens the cake itself.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and keeps it light and fluffy.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg: These spices add warmth and complement the peaches beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Sour cream or buttermilk: Adds tanginess and moisture, preventing the cake from becoming dry.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prepare the Streusel Topping: Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter. Use your hands or a pastry cutter to form a crumbly mixture and set it aside in the fridge to keep it cold while you prepare the cake batter.
- Make the Cake Batter: Cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with sour cream or buttermilk to keep the batter smooth and moist.
- Add the Peaches: Gently fold in chopped, peeled peaches to the batter, ensuring not to overmix, which could make the cake dense.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, then evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the cake. You can also add additional peaches on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the cake for about 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze. Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top for an added layer of sweetness.
Tips for a Perfect Peach Coffee Cake
- Use Ripe Peaches: For the best flavor, choose peaches that are fully ripe but not overly soft. If using canned or frozen peaches, drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir the batter just enough to combine the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake due to the development of gluten.
- Storing the Cake: This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to five days, or freeze it for up to three months.
Variations
- Peach-Almond Coffee Cake: Add almond extract to the batter for a subtle nutty flavor that complements the peaches.
- Peach-Blueberry Coffee Cake: For a burst of extra flavor, toss in a handful of fresh blueberries along with the peaches.
- Whole Wheat Peach Coffee Cake: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
This Peach Coffee Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re enjoying it for a special occasion or as a simple summer treat, Peach Coffee Cake is sure to become a favorite. Its balance of sweet, juicy peaches, buttery streusel, and tender cake makes it a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget the glaze—it adds the perfect finishing touch!
This delightful recipe combines the best of fresh summer fruit with comforting, home-baked goodness, sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
