Peach Cream Cake

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Slice of homemade Peach Cream Cake with fresh peaches on top

Peach Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of peaches with a rich and creamy filling. This cake is perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any occasion where you want to impress your family and friends. Its light texture and delicious flavor make it a favorite among dessert lovers. With its beautiful presentation, Peach Cream Cake also serves as a stunning centerpiece at any event.

In this article, we will explore why you should make this recipe, how to prepare it, and share some tips to make your baking experience easy and enjoyable. Let’s dive into the sweet world of Peach Cream Cake!

Why make this recipe

There are several reasons to make Peach Cream Cake. First, it’s an excellent way to enjoy fresh peaches, especially during peach season. The cake captures the essence of summer with its fruity flavor and creamy texture. Additionally, this recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

This cake is versatile, whether you want to serve it as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet treat during the day. The creamy filling combined with the peaches creates a heavenly bite that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, baking this cake fills your kitchen with delightful aromas that make your home feel warm and inviting.

How to make Peach Cream Cake

Making Peach Cream Cake may seem complicated, but with a clear set of instructions, it becomes manageable and fun. Below, you will find the ingredients and step-by-step directions to create this sweet masterpiece.

Ingredients:

  • 140 grams (5 ounces) of butter
  • 1 egg
  • 100 grams (½ cup) of sugar
  • 10 grams (2 teaspoons) of vanilla sugar
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 300 grams (2½ cups) of flour
  • 10 grams (2 teaspoons) of baking powder
  • 500 ml (2 cups) of milk
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 10 grams (2 teaspoons) of vanilla sugar
  • 4 tablespoons of sugar
  • 5 tablespoons of cornstarch
  • 50 ml (3 tablespoons) of orange juice
  • 150 ml (⅔ cup) of already sweetened whipped cream
  • 200 grams (7 ounces) of peaches in syrup, drained

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix the softened butter with the sugar until it becomes creamy. Use a hand mixer if you prefer, but a whisk will work as well.
  2. Add the egg, orange zest, and baking powder to the bowl and mix until everything is well incorporated.
  3. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring continuously until a homogeneous dough is formed.
  4. Once the dough is ready, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps it to be easier to handle.
  5. While the dough is resting, prepare the cream filling. In a saucepan, heat the milk mixed with sugar, vanilla sugar, and orange juice over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm, but do not boil.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolk with the cornstarch until smooth.
  7. Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the egg yolk and cornstarch mixture, mixing constantly to prevent any lumps from forming.
  8. Return this mixture to the heat. Cook over low heat while stirring until the cream thickens. This process usually takes about 5 minutes.
  9. Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool down.
  10. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  11. Take the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Roll it out on a floured surface or between two pieces of parchment paper until it is large enough to cover your greased and floured baking pan.
  12. Gently place the rolled-out dough into the baking pan and press it into the bottom and sides.
  13. Pour the prepared cream filling over the dough and spread it evenly.
  14. Lastly, arrange the drained peaches in syrup on top of the cream filling, decorating them as you like.
  15. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes or until the cake is golden brown on top and fully cooked through.
  16. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.

How to serve Peach Cream Cake

Peach Cream Cake can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Cut it into slices and plate it for serving. If desired, you can top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness. Fresh mint leaves can also make a lovely garnish. This dessert pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of iced tea, enhancing the delightful peach flavors.

How to store Peach Cream Cake

To store Peach Cream Cake, let it cool completely first. Place any leftover cake in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil, and store them in the freezer. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy.

Tips to make Peach Cream Cake

  • Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If fresh peaches are not available, canned peaches can also work well.
  • Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • When rolling out the dough, keep it floured to prevent it from sticking.
  • If the cream filling is too hot when added to the egg yolks, it might scramble the eggs. Always whisk while adding hot mixtures.
  • Feel free to adjust the sugar level in the recipe based on your taste preferences.

Variation (if any)

You can switch up the fruit in this cake for a different flavor profile. Consider using pears, apricots, or berries as lovely alternatives. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream filling for an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, try adding a bit of almond extract to the dough for a nutty touch.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh peaches instead of peaches in syrup?
A: Yes, fresh peaches can be used. Just make sure to slice them thinly and toss them in a bit of sugar to enhance their sweetness.

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
A: Yes, gluten-free flour can be used in place of regular flour. Make sure to choose a blend that works for baking.

Q: How can I make the cake more flavorful?
A: You can enhance the flavor by adding almond or lemon extract to the dough or cream.

Q: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A: The cake is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Q: Is it necessary to chill the dough?
A: While it’s not strictly necessary, chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and shapes it well in the baking pan.

Nutritional Information

One slice of Peach Cream Cake (based on 12 servings) contains approximately:

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 14g

Enjoy making and savoring this delightful Peach Cream Cake! With its creamy filling and sweet peach topping, it’s sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your gatherings.