As the summer sun begins to set, bringing a warm glow over my kitchen, I can’t help but think of my favorite dessert: a Moist Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Fresh Peach Filling. The gentle aroma of roasted peaches mingles with the sweet scent of brown sugar, instantly transporting me to lazy afternoons spent picking ripe fruit from the orchard. This cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience, combining the rich, caramel-like depth of brown sugar with the bright, refreshing notes of juicy peaches. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging on a cozy weekend, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bake with seasonal ingredients, making every slice feel like a little celebration. Curious about how to whip up this stunning dessert? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Moist Texture: The delicate crumb of the brown sugar cake melds beautifully with the luscious peach filling, making every bite a delight.
Flavor Fusion: This cake features a wonderful blend of savory brown sugar and sweet peaches, a combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Seasonal Celebration: Made with fresh peaches, this recipe highlights the essence of summer, so you’ll savor every slice as if it’s a sunny picnic.
Easy Assembly: You’ll enjoy the simple assembly process that offers impressive results—perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Versatile Options: Customize the cake by swapping out the peach filling for other fruits like berries, giving you a chance to enjoy seasonal fruits with options like my irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Dump cake.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This cake is sure to wow at any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration.
Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling
• Get ready to create something delicious!
For the Cake Layers
- Chopped Peaches – Fresh fruit that provides natural sweetness and flavor for the filling; substitute with canned peaches if fresh are unavailable.
- Domino® Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and deep caramel-like flavor to the cake; dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste.
- Cornstarch – Acts as a thickener for the peach filling; no direct substitute recommended.
- Lemon Juice – Enhances the flavor of the peaches; can be replaced with lime juice.
- Flour – Building block of the cake structure; use all-purpose flour unless otherwise specified.
- Baking Powder – Leavening agent that helps the cake rise; ensure it is fresh for best results.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances the flavor of the cake; optional, can be omitted.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; essential for cake making.
- Butter – Provides moisture and flavor; use unsalted butter for better control of the salt content.
- Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and tenderness; can substitute with canola oil or melted coconut oil.
- Eggs – Provide structure and richness to the cake; use large eggs.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor; pure vanilla extract is recommended.
- Milk – Adds moisture to the batter; can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for non-dairy options.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Used for sweetening the frosting and giving it a smooth texture; ensure it’s sifted before use.
- Mascarpone Cheese – Creates a rich and creamy frosting; substitute with cream cheese if needed, though flavor will differ.
Get ready to create a blissful Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling that’ll be the highlight of your dessert table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling
Step 1: Prepare Peach Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped peaches, brown sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture until it reaches a gentle boil, then mash the peaches slightly with a fork or potato masher. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until the filling thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool at room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare Cake Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and vegetable oil using a hand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well-blended. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix just until combined, avoiding overmixing for the perfect texture of the Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Divide the thick batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently mix in the mascarpone cheese and a pinch of salt, beating until well combined. Then, fold in about half of the prepared peach filling, ensuring the frosting maintains a creamy texture that’s perfect for your Brown Sugar Layer Cake.
Step 6: Assemble Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, carefully cut each layer in half horizontally to create four total layers. On a cake stand or plate, start layering: place one cake layer down, spread a layer of frosting, and add some peach filling. Repeat until all layers are stacked, finishing with a layer of frosting on top.
Step 7: Crumb Coat and Chill
Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting around the entire cake to catch any crumbs, smoothing it out with a spatula. Place the assembled cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, allowing the crumb coat to firm up before applying the final layer of frosting.
Step 8: Final Frosting and Decoration
After chilling, remove the cake from the refrigerator and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Decorate with fresh peach slices and, if desired, a sprinkle of brown sugar for an added touch. Chill the decorated cake until ready to serve, letting it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing for the best flavor experience.
Expert Tips for Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling
Perfect Temperature: Ensure that both the butter and mascarpone cheese are at room temperature before mixing; this will help achieve a smooth frosting texture.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet in your Brown Sugar Layer Cake batter, mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake.
Watch the Bake Time: Start checking for doneness at 30 minutes; every oven is different, and you want to avoid overbaking for that moist texture.
Chill Before Final Frosting: After applying the crumb coat, refrigerate the cake briefly to firm it up, making it easier to frost without the layers shifting.
Texture Check: When making the peach filling, ensure it thickens to a syrupy consistency to provide a nice contrast with the fluffy cake layers.
Alternatives Note: Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings; just remember, the peach filling pairs uniquely with the brown sugar for depth of flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling
Fridge: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Freezer: If you want to save your cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: For the best flavor, allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This enhances the peach filling’s sweetness and the cake’s moisture.
Keep Covered: Always cover the cake to maintain its delicious moisture and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.
Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling Variations
Feel free to play around with these ideas to make this cake your own – the possibilities are endless!
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Berry Delight: Swap the peach filling for mixed berries to introduce a tart burst of flavor, perfect for summer desserts.
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Nutty Crumble: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake batter for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s moistness. These nuts will enhance the overall texture and flavor, making each slice a satisfying surprise.
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Spiced Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of nutmeg or even a dash of ginger into the spice mix to give your cake a warm, inviting flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Coconut Cream Frosting: Replace mascarpone with coconut cream for a tropical twist. This will lend a light and airy texture while infusing a subtle coconut flavor – a delicious change that pairs exquisitely with the peaches.
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Mocha Dream: Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder into your cake batter for a hint of chocolate. This delicious addition will enhance the rich complexity of the brown sugar’s caramel notes.
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Lemon-Lime Zing: Instead of lemon juice in the peach filling, replace it with fresh lime for a zesty pop that brightens up the flavors and provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
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Ginger Peach Fusion: Add minced candied ginger to the peach filling to level up the flavor profile with a tangy kick that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Caramel Drizzle: Don’t forget to drizzle caramel sauce over the top of your cake when serving for an extra sweet finish that guests will love, making it feel like a gourmet dessert right at home! Enjoy this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of my delightful Orange Velvet Cake for an even sweeter experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the peach filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to retain its freshness. The cake layers can also be baked 1 day ahead; just make sure to cool them completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the cake with the frosting and peach filling, allowing it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to bring out the flavors. These make-ahead options will save you time, ensuring a delightful dessert experience without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Moist Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Fresh Peach Filling
Indulging in a slice of this cake is only the beginning; delight in a full meal experience with these perfect pairings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness complements the fruity peach filling, creating a heavenly contrast and making every bite richer.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cake adds a sweet, buttery touch that enhances the caramel notes in the brown sugar.
- Fresh Summer Salad: A crisp salad with arugula, goat cheese, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the sweetness of the cake, refreshing your palate.
- Lemon Sorbet: This light, zesty sorbet provides a delightful and tangy balance, cleansing the taste buds after each sweet bite.
- Iced Tea: Sipping on sweetened iced tea adds a refreshing complement to the cake’s rich flavors, perfect for warm summer days.
- Peach Bellini: A bubbly cocktail made with peach puree brings out the fresh peach notes from the cake, perfect for a celebratory touch.
- Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, a rich ganache drizzled over a slice adds an indulgent layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cake.
- Berry Compote: A warm berry compote serves as a vibrant contrast, bringing a tartness that brightens the overall dessert experience.
- Coffee or Espresso: Rich, dark coffee elevates the flavors of the cake and creates a warm, inviting finish to the meal after dessert.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy texture to the cake, enhancing the overall decadence of each slice.
Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe peaches for the filling?
Absolutely! Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch with a sweet aroma. The skin should be smooth and free from dark spots; ideally, they should feel heavy for their size. If using canned peaches, make sure they’re packed in juice or light syrup to maintain flavor.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! After baking, store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it covered helps retain moisture and keeps it fresh. If you notice the cake starting to dry out, you can always serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Can I freeze the Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling?
Of course! To freeze, wrap the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This way, it can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
How can I troubleshoot common baking issues?
If your cake turns out too dense, it’s likely that you overmixed the batter after adding the flour—try to blend just until combined next time. If the cake layers are uneven, you can trim the tops with a serrated knife for a flat surface before frosting. Remember, baking is an art, so don’t fret too much; practice brings perfection!
Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Yes! This cake contains common allergens like eggs, milk, and gluten. For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute milk with a plant-based alternative, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter. Always check the specific labels for allergens when making substitutions, especially for friends or family members with dietary restrictions.
How long will the fresh peach filling last?
The peach filling, once prepared, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it is cooled completely before refrigerating. You can use it for other desserts as well, such as topping pancakes or stirring into yogurt for a refreshing snack!
Moist Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped peaches, brown sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook until mixture reaches a gentle boil.
- Mash peaches slightly with a fork and simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add flour mixture to wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix just until combined.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack.
- Beat together softened butter and sifted powdered sugar until smooth. Mix in mascarpone cheese.
- Fold in half of the prepared peach filling into the frosting.
- Once cakes are completely cool, cut each layer in half horizontally.
- Layer the cakes with frosting and peach filling. Repeat until all layers are stacked, finishing with frosting on top.
- Apply a thin crumb coat and chill for 30 minutes. Then frost the top and sides with remaining frosting.
- Decorate with fresh peach slices and a sprinkle of brown sugar. Chill until serving.
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