Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Introduction
When it comes to indulgent and flavorful desserts, the Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake stands out as a true showstopper. Juicy peaches, a splash of bourbon, and a luscious, moist cake come together to create a dessert that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. This recipe combines the comforting warmth of bourbon and the summery sweetness of peaches, making it perfect for any special occasion or simple weeknight treat. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results every time.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
For the Peach Topping:
– Fresh ripe peaches
– Brown sugar
– Unsalted butter
– Bourbon
For the Cake Batter:
– All-purpose flour
– Baking powder
– Salt
– Unsalted butter
– Granulated sugar
– Eggs
– Vanilla extract
– Whole milk
Prep Time
This dessert requires a bit of thoughtful preparation to ensure the flavors and textures come out perfect. From measuring ingredients to carefully arranging the peach slices for the topping, attention to detail will elevate this cake to the next level. Expect to spend around 15 to 20 minutes preparing the ingredients and assembling the cake before placing it in the oven.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The baking process takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes depending on your oven. Including prep time, the total time required for the recipe is about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. Once finished, this recipe yields a rich and buttery cake that comfortably serves 8 to 10 people. Each slice offers a perfect balance of warm flavors and fresh fruitiness. This makes the Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake ideal for gatherings or simply as a personal indulgence to savor throughout the week. Prepare to impress family and friends with this delightful dessert!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Peaches
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Cut the peaches into thin slices, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Set them aside.
Prepare the Topping
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 3 tablespoons of butter and 1/3 cup of brown sugar. Stir until the butter melts, and the mixture is smooth.
4. Remove the mixture from the heat and pour it directly into the prepared cake pan, ensuring an even layer of the caramel.
5. Arrange the peach slices over the caramel layer, slightly overlapping them in a circular pattern or any design you’d like.
Make the Cake Batter
6. In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well and set aside.
7. In a large mixing bowl, cream 1/2 cup of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (approximately 2 to 3 minutes).
8. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
9. Reduce the speed to low and alternately add the dry ingredients and wet ingredients into the butter mixture in three additions. First, add one-third of the flour mixture, followed by 1/2 cup of bourbon and 1/2 cup of buttermilk combined. Mix just until the batter is smooth and incorporated (don’t overmix).
Assemble and Bake the Cake
10. Pour the cake batter evenly over the peach slices in the cake pan. Gently spread the batter with a spatula to ensure it covers all the fruit without disturbing the arrangement.
11. Place the cake pan on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Unmold
12. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes.
13. Run a knife or offset spatula around the edges to loosen the cake. Place a serving platter upside-down over the cake pan, then carefully flip the cake onto the platter. Tap the bottom of the pan gently to release the cake and remove the parchment paper, if used.
Serve
14. Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Notes
Choosing Peaches
– Fresh, ripe, but firm peaches work best for this recipe to prevent them from turning too mushy during baking.
Substituting Bourbon
– If you prefer not to use bourbon, replace it with orange juice or additional buttermilk for a non-alcoholic version with a similar taste profile.
Storage
– Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the slices for up to 2 months—just thaw before serving.
Variation Ideas
– Try using other fruits like apples, plums, or pineapple as substitutes or in combination with peaches for a unique twist on this recipe.
Pan Types
– If using a different pan size, adjust the baking time as necessary. A smaller pan may take longer, while a larger pan may finish baking sooner.
Caramel Color
– Be sure to monitor the butter and brown sugar mixture for the caramel topping to avoid burning. It should be smooth and golden brown before pouring it into the pan.
Room Temperature Ingredients
– Ensure the eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature for smoother batter consistency and better results.
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Cook Techniques
Caramelizing the Topping
To achieve a deeply flavorful topping, cook butter and brown sugar until melted and bubbly. It is important to watch the mixture carefully to avoid burning the caramel.
Arranging the Peaches
Slice fresh peaches and arrange them neatly in a layer over the caramelized sugar in the prepared pan. Ensure the slices overlap slightly to create a visually appealing presentation once the cake is flipped.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
For the cake batter, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process helps incorporate air into the mixture, giving the cake a tender crumb.
Folding the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding dry and wet ingredients to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Use a gentle folding motion to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
Flipping the Cake
After baking, allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before flipping it out onto a serving plate. Use a knife to loosen the edges if necessary. Flip carefully to ensure the peach topping remains intact.
Moistening with Bourbon
Brush or drizzle a small amount of bourbon over the baked cake for added moisture and flavor. This step is optional but enhances the overall taste.
FAQ
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh peaches?
Yes, canned peaches can be used if fresh peaches are not available. Be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could affect the cake texture.
Can I make this cake without bourbon?
Absolutely. The bourbon adds depth of flavor, but you can leave it out entirely or replace it with vanilla extract or peach juice.
How do I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How do I prevent the caramel topping from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to grease the pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray before adding the caramel and peaches. Using parchment paper at the bottom of the pan can also help with easy release.
Can I substitute another fruit for peaches?
Yes, you can substitute other fruits like pineapple, apples, or pears. Choose a fruit with a similar texture and adjust the topping layout accordingly.
Conclusion
This Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of peaches with the warmth of bourbon for a rich and satisfying treat. Its caramelized peach topping and moist cake base create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will surely impress family and friends. Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, this cake is guaranteed to be a showstopper.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Peach Cobbler
For more peach desserts, try a classic peach cobbler topped with a buttery crust.
Bourbon Chocolate Cake
If you love the bourbon flavor, consider pairing it with rich chocolate in a decadent cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Serve this Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent pairing.
