Delightful Peach Pound Cake Recipe
Introduction
There’s something undeniably charming about a homemade pound cake. Its rich, buttery flavor and dense yet tender crumb make it a classic dessert that’s beloved by many. When you add fresh peaches into the mix, you elevate this timeless treat into something truly special. This Peach Pound Cake is perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of tea. The addition of a sweet glaze takes it to the next level, making each bite a delightful experience. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step process to create this delectable cake.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1½ cups (3 sticks, 340 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3 cups (600 g) granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup (230 g) sour cream
- 3 fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced (approximately 2 cups)
For the Glaze:
- 1½ cups (187.5 g) confectioners’ sugar
- 1-3 tablespoons milk or cream
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Bundt Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Properly greasing your bundt pan is crucial to ensure the cake releases easily after baking. Spray a 10-inch bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray, making sure to cover all the crevices, and set it aside. My 10-inch bundt pan is 3 inches deep; there should be at least 1½ inches between the height of the batter and the top edge of the pan to prevent overflow during baking.
Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 1½ cups of room temperature unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 3 cups of granulated sugar and mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 5 minutes on medium speed. Creaming the butter and sugar properly is essential for incorporating air into the batter, which helps the cake rise.
Step 3: Adding the Eggs and Vanilla
Add 6 large eggs to the batter, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Adding the eggs slowly ensures that the batter remains smooth and prevents curdling. After all the eggs are added, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
Step 4: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of baking soda. This step ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps with the cake’s leavening and flavor balance.
Step 5: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture to the butter mixture alternately with 1 cup of sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture, adding it in three parts and the sour cream in two parts. This method helps to maintain the batter’s consistency and prevents overmixing. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake, so mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Step 6: Incorporating the Peaches
Peel, pit, and dice 3 fresh peaches, which should yield approximately 2 cups of diced peaches. Gently fold the diced peaches into the batter by hand. Folding the peaches in by hand ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without breaking down too much.
Step 7: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, filling it about ¾ of the way full. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs, but no wet batter. You want a golden-brown crust on the cake, which adds to its delightful texture and flavor.
Step 8: Cooling the Cake
Once the cake is done baking, allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the cake set and makes it easier to remove from the pan. After cooling, invert the cake onto a plate and let it cool completely. Proper cooling is essential for the glaze to adhere properly to the cake.
Step 9: Preparing the Glaze
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, combine 1½ cups of confectioners’ sugar with 1 tablespoon of milk or cream. Whisk until smooth, adding more milk or cream as needed to reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be thick but pourable, creating a beautiful, sweet coating over the cake.
Step 10: Glazing the Cake
Once the cake is completely cooled, pour the glaze over the top. Allow it to drip down the sides, creating a visually appealing effect. The glaze adds a sweet touch that complements the rich, buttery cake and the fresh peaches.
Tips and Variations
- Choosing Peaches: For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh peaches. If fresh peaches are not available, you can use canned or frozen peaches. Make sure to drain them well to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
- Glaze Flavors: Experiment with different flavors in the glaze. A touch of almond extract or a splash of lemon juice can add a new dimension to the cake.
- Additional Mix-ins: For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter along with the peaches.
- Serving Suggestions: This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh peach slices on the side also make a lovely garnish.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cake can also be frozen for longer storage; wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Conclusion
This Peach Pound Cake is a celebration of summer flavors and classic baking techniques. The combination of buttery pound cake, fresh peaches, and a sweet glaze creates a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavor and beautiful presentation.
Baking a cake like this can be a rewarding experience, offering a chance to create something delicious from scratch. The process of mixing, baking, and glazing allows you to engage in the joy of baking, resulting in a treat that brings happiness to everyone who tastes it.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on the delightful journey of making this Peach Pound Cake. Enjoy