Moist slice of brown sugar peach cake topped with rich brown sugar glaze and fresh peach chunks.

Brown Sugar Peach Cake is the kind of dessert that wraps you in comfort. It brings together the rich, molasses-like warmth of brown sugar and the juicy brightness of peaches. Whether it’s the middle of summer and you’re surrounded by baskets of fresh peaches or it’s winter and you’ve got a can in the pantry, this cake works like magic. Moist, sweet, and full of nostalgic spice, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

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Why This Brown Sugar Peach Cake Belongs in Your Recipe Book

If you love rustic, old-fashioned desserts that taste homemade and feel effortless, this peach cake checks all the boxes. Here’s what makes it so beloved:

  • The brown sugar adds rich caramel undertones
  • Peaches bring natural sweetness and moisture
  • Easy to prepare with pantry ingredients
  • Works with fresh, canned, or frozen peaches
  • Pairs perfectly with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
  • Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
  • Ideal for gatherings, weeknight treats, or even brunch

Each bite is soft, warm, and full of comforting flavor—and it only gets better after a chill in the fridge or a gentle reheat.

Ingredients Needed for Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Every layer of this cake brings flavor and function. Here’s how each ingredient contributes:

Recipe Ingredients Table

IngredientPurpose in Recipe
All-purpose flourProvides structure for the cake base
Brown sugar (light or dark)Adds sweetness and a molasses-rich depth
Baking powder & baking sodaHelp the cake rise and stay tender
Ground cinnamon & nutmegAdd cozy, warming spice that complements the peaches
EggsBind the batter and provide stability
Butter or oilKeeps the crumb moist and tender
Sour cream or yogurtAdds richness and a slight tang that enhances flavor
Vanilla extractBrings out the natural sweetness of the other ingredients
Peaches (fresh, frozen, or canned)Deliver juicy texture and a burst of fruitiness

Optional Additions

  • Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
  • Streusel topping for texture contrast
  • Glaze drizzle (cream cheese or vanilla)

How to Make Brown Sugar Peach Cake Step-by-Step

This cake is straightforward and satisfying to bake. Here’s how to bring it to life:

Instructions

  1. Prepare the peaches
    If using fresh, peel and slice. For canned or frozen, drain and pat dry. You want them ripe but not overly soft.
  2. Mix dry ingredients
    Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in one bowl.
  3. Cream butter and brown sugar
    In a separate bowl, beat butter (or oil) with brown sugar until fluffy and light. This creates a soft, even texture.
  4. Add wet ingredients
    Mix in eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream or yogurt. This mixture will be creamy and thick.
  5. Combine and fold
    Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet, mixing just until combined. Then gently fold in the peach slices.
  6. Pour and arrange
    Pour the batter into a greased or lined pan. Add extra peach slices on top in a decorative layer.
  7. Bake and check
    Bake at 350°F for 35–45 minutes. A toothpick in the center should come out clean.
  8. Cool and set
    Let the cake rest for 10 minutes before slicing, or chill for firmer portions.

Tips for the Best Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Success is in the details, and these tips will help you bake a perfect cake:

  • Choose dark brown sugar for deeper flavor
  • Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender
  • Chill for 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts
  • If peaches are too juicy, drain and pat dry to avoid soggy spots
  • Add chopped nuts to the batter or top for a crunchy texture

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This cake is easy to store and even easier to make in advance:

Fridge Storage

  • Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days
  • Tastes great cold or gently warmed in the microwave

Freezing Instructions

  • Let the cake cool completely
  • Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months
  • Thaw in the refrigerator and warm before serving for best texture

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

NutrientApprox. Value
Calories~310
Sugar~22g
Fat~14g
Carbohydrates~38g
Protein~4g

These numbers are estimates and vary based on your ingredients and portion size.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, just be sure to drain them well and gently pat them dry before adding to the batter.

What if I want a lighter cake?

You can substitute half the butter or oil with applesauce or Greek yogurt.

Do I need to peel fresh peaches?

Peeling is optional, but it makes for a smoother bite. If you don’t mind the texture, you can skip peeling.

What kind of glaze works best?

A simple cream cheese glaze or a powdered sugar and milk drizzle pairs beautifully with this cake.

Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla or cold with a dollop of whipped cream, Brown Sugar Peach Cake is a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat. It delivers that homemade taste with minimal effort, and it adapts beautifully to your favorite spices and toppings. Once you try it, it might just become your go-to for peach season—and beyond.

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Brown Sugar Peach Cake

Moist slice of brown sugar peach cake topped with rich brown sugar glaze and fresh peach chunks.

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A moist, rich, and warmly spiced cake featuring brown sugar and juicy peaches—perfect for any season and easily made with fresh, canned, or frozen fruit.

  • Author: Gemma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour – provides the structure for the cake
  • Brown sugar – adds deep caramel flavor and moisture
  • Baking powder and baking soda – help the cake rise
  • Ground cinnamon and nutmeg – add warm spice notes
  • Eggs – bind ingredients and give the cake structure
  • Butter or oil – adds moisture and richness
  • Sour cream or yogurt – enhances tenderness and adds tang
  • Vanilla extract – brings balance and sweetness
  • Peaches (fresh, canned, or frozen) – deliver juicy texture and fruitiness

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice fresh peaches or drain and pat dry canned/frozen peaches.
  2. Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in one bowl.
  3. Cream together butter (or oil) and brown sugar until fluffy.
  4. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream or yogurt to the wet mixture.
  5. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet, then fold in peach slices.
  6. Pour batter into a greased baking pan and top with extra peaches.
  7. Bake at 350°F for 35–45 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  8. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing or chill to set for firmer pieces.

Notes

  • Use dark brown sugar for a richer caramel flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
  • Drain peaches thoroughly to avoid soggy cake.
  • Let the cake chill for 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
  • Add chopped nuts or glaze for extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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