Easy Cake Mix with Peaches: Simple Recipe!
Imagine a dessert that balances the comforting simplicity of home baking with the bright, juicy sweetness of ripe summer fruit. The first bite offers a symphony of textures: a soft, golden crumb yielding to the tender, slightly tart burst of peaches. The aroma alonea blend of vanilla, butter, and stone fruitevokes feelings of warmth and contentment.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Baking, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 people
Calories 350 kcal
- 1 box 15.25 ounces yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups sliced fresh or frozen peaches thawed and drained
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, use baking spray.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Cake Mix: Add the yellow cake mix to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Prepare the Peaches: In a separate small bowl, toss the sliced peaches with the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using). This helps to draw out some of the peach juices and create a flavorful coating.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spread evenly. Arrange half of the sugared peaches over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the peaches and gently spread to cover. Top with the remaining peaches, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream complements the cake beautifully.
Optional Tips and Substitutions: For a richer flavor, substitute melted butter with melted coconut oil. For a tangier taste, use buttermilk instead of milk. Chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, can be added to the topping for extra crunch. If using canned peaches, drain them well before tossing with sugar.
Variations
Adapting the recipe allows for personalized flavors and dietary considerations. Several variations enhance the core “cake mix with peaches” concept:
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Flour Incorporation: Enhance or complement the peach flavors by incorporating almond.
- Liquid Choices: Instead of milk, buttermilk or sour cream create a tangier, richer cake. Incorporating coconut milk adds a tropical twist.
- Fat Alternatives: Using melted coconut oil instead of butter infuses a subtle coconut flavor and caters to dairy-free diets.
- Regional Twists:
- Southern Charm: Add a splash of bourbon or a sprinkle of pecans for a classic Southern dessert.
- Spice Infusion: Experiment with chai spice or cardamom for an aromatic twist.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
- Lower Sugar Options: Opt for a sugar-free cake mix or reduce the amount of added sugar to the peaches. Consider using a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk, coconut oil, and vegan butter.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert offers flexibility in serving options:
- Warm Indulgence: Serve warm directly from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting treat.
- Elegant Dessert: Once cooled, top with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze for a more refined presentation.
- Brunch Addition: Incorporate it as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and pastries.
- Casual Gathering: Serve at potlucks, barbecues, or picnics as a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Storage Tips
Proper storage maintains freshness and flavor:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.
- Freezer: The cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw completely before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use canned peaches? Answer: Yes, canned peaches can be used. Drain them well and pat them dry before tossing them with sugar and adding them to the cake.
- Question 2: Can I use frozen peaches? Answer: Yes, frozen peaches can also be used. Thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using.
- Question 3: My cake is browning too quickly. What should I do? Answer: Tent the cake with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent excessive browning.
- Question 4: Can I add a crumble topping? Answer: Absolutely! A crumble topping made with flour, butter, sugar, and oats adds a delightful textural contrast.
- Question 5: How do I prevent the peaches from sinking to the bottom of the cake? Answer: Tossing the peaches lightly in flour before adding them to the batter helps prevent them from sinking. Layering the batter and peaches in stages can also ensure a more even distribution.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Baking, Summer