Easy Peaches & Cream Cake (Cake Mix!) Recipe
Imagine a dessert that perfectly balances the bright, sunny sweetness of ripe summer fruit with the comforting richness of a classic creamy confection. Each bite offers a symphony of textures, from the soft, yielding crumb of the cake to the tender, juicy pieces of fruit, all enveloped in a velvety smooth, decadent cream.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Pan: For baking the cake evenly.
- Electric Mixer: To blend the cake batter and whip the cream. A hand mixer or stand mixer can be used.
- Mixing Bowls: Various sizes to accommodate the cake batter, sliced peaches, and whipped cream.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Wooden Skewer or Toothpick: To check the cake's doneness.
- Wire Rack: To cool the cake evenly after baking.
- Vegetable Peeler: For peeling the peaches.
- Knife and Cutting Board: To slice the peaches.
- Spatula: To spread the whipped cream evenly over the cake.
- Plastic Wrap or Airtight Container: For storing the assembled cake.
Ingredients
- 1 box 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups fresh peaches peeled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract optional
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Step 2: Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 3: Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling completely is essential to prevent the peaches and cream from melting and soaking into the cake excessively.
- Step 4: Prepare the Peaches: While the cake is cooling, prepare the sliced peaches. Ensure the peaches are ripe but firm enough to hold their shape.
- Step 5: Prepare the Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and almond extract (if using), and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can cause the cream to curdle.
- Step 6: Assemble the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top. Arrange the sliced peaches artfully over the whipped cream.
- Step 7: Chill and Serve: Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cream to set slightly.
- Optional Tips:
- For a richer flavor, substitute the milk with buttermilk or sour cream.
- If fresh peaches are not available, use canned peaches in light syrup, drained well.
- Add a streusel topping before baking for extra texture and flavor.
- For a boozy twist, brush the cooled cake with a simple syrup infused with peach liqueur or rum before adding the cream and peaches.
Notes
Variations
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Nectarines or plums can be substituted for peaches, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) provide a vibrant color contrast and tartness.
- Greek yogurt can replace some of the heavy cream for a tangier and lighter topping.
- Different cake mix flavors (vanilla, butter pecan) offer varied base notes.
- Regional Twists:
- Peach cobbler topping: Crumble a mixture of flour, butter, sugar, and cinnamon over the peaches before baking for a rustic twist.
- Bourbon-soaked peaches: Marinate the peaches in bourbon for a more complex and adult flavor.
- Southern comfort addition: Incorporate a splash of Southern Comfort liqueur into the whipped cream.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Gluten-free cake mix: Adapt the recipe for gluten-free diets.
- Sugar-free sweetener: Utilize sugar substitutes for those managing blood sugar levels.
- Vegan option: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan cake mix.
Serving Suggestions
This peaches and cream cake is well-suited for a variety of occasions. It serves as an ideal dessert for summer barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. It pairs exceptionally well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. To enhance the presentation, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of toasted almonds. The cake can be served chilled or at room temperature, depending on personal preference. Its light and refreshing nature makes it a satisfying end to any meal. It can also be paired with beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or a light white wine.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, the peaches and cream cake should be stored in the refrigerator. Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Stored properly, the cake will maintain its quality for approximately 2-3 days. The cream topping may soften slightly over time, but the flavor remains excellent. It is not recommended to freeze the assembled cake, as the cream and peaches may undergo textural changes upon thawing. However, the baked cake base can be frozen separately for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw completely before adding the peaches and cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can canned peaches be used instead of fresh?
Canned peaches can be used, but fresh peaches are preferred for optimal flavor and texture. Ensure canned peaches are well-drained before use. - Question 2: Can the cake be made ahead of time?
The cake base can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature, tightly wrapped. Assemble the cake with the cream and peaches closer to serving time. - Question 3: What is the best way to prevent the cake from becoming soggy?
Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the cream and peaches. Chilling the assembled cake also helps to firm up the cream and prevent excessive soaking.