We’ve got a soft spot for peach crumb cake, that irresistible blend of juicy, sun-ripened peaches and a crunchy topping that makes every bite feel like summer. Originating from classic American baking traditions, our version adds a fresh twist to elevate your breakfast or dessert game.
It’s the perfect treat when peaches are in season, offering a simple yet decadent way to showcase their natural sweetness. We promise this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen, balancing ease with mouthwatering results.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Peach Crumb Cake – a perfect blend of juicy peaches and crunchy topping – we recommend gathering these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them by component for ease, noting any prep specifics as they’re used in the recipe process.
For the Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted, as the base for our moist cake structure.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness that balances the tartness of peaches.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: To ensure the cake rises evenly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: For flavor enhancement.
- 2 large eggs: Beaten lightly before mixing into the batter.
- ½ cup whole milk: Room temperature to blend smoothly.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Melted, to add rich creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure variety for authentic flavor depth.
For the Peach Filling
- 4 medium peaches: Fresh and ripe, peeled and sliced into ½-inch pieces to release their natural juices.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Packed, to caramelize and enhance peach sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For a warm spice that complements the fruit.
For the Crumb Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: As the topping base for a crunchy texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: To create a sweet, golden crumble.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Chilled and cubed, for easy incorporation into the mixture.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Freshly grated for a subtle, aromatic note that ties everything together.
These carefully selected ingredients ensure our Peach Crumb Cake delivers on both flavor and texture, making it a go-to summer favorite.
Instructions
We love guiding you through the simple steps to bake our irresistible Peach Crumb Cake, transforming fresh peaches and pantry staples into a moist, flavorful treat that captures summer’s essence.
Prepare the Peaches
First, gather the fresh, ripe peaches from our ingredients list and wash them thoroughly under cool water. Peel the skins from 4 medium peaches using a sharp paring knife, then slice each peach into 1/2-inch thick wedges to yield about 2 cups of fruit—this ensures even distribution and a juicy burst in every bite. In a medium bowl, toss the peach slices with 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, stirring gently until the peaches glisten with a sweet, spicy coating that releases their natural aroma.
Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to create a light, airy base that promises a tender crumb. In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs with 1 cup of whole milk, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and fragrant. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon just until combined—overmixing can make the cake tough, so aim for a batter with a velvety texture that hints at the peaches’ sweetness ahead.
Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg for a warm, spicy note. Cut in 1/2 cup of chilled unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture forms coarse, buttery crumbs that clump together slightly—this step creates the irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft cake below, elevating the overall texture.
Assemble the Cake
Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the cake batter into the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to form a smooth base. Layer the prepared peach mixture over the batter, arranging the slices in an even pattern so their juices seep into the cake as it bakes. Finally, sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the peaches, creating a golden blanket that will crisp up in the oven and lock in the flavors for a visually appealing, multi-layered delight.
Bake and Cool
Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the center for optimal heat distribution. Place the assembled cake in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top turns a deep golden brown—rotating the pan halfway through ensures even baking. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes to set, allowing the aromas of peaches and cinnamon to intensify before slicing and serving.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Peach Crumb Cake to life seamlessly after preparing the ingredients and following the step-by-step instructions, we recommend gathering these essential tools and equipment. This ensures efficiency and precision in every stage from prepping the peaches to baking the cake.
Must-Have Tools
We categorize the tools based on their primary use in the recipe, making it easier for you to prepare:
- Mixing Bowls: Two or three medium-sized mixing bowls for combining dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and preparing the crumb topping. Opt for stainless steel or glass for durability and ease of cleaning.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of measuring cups (1 cup, ½ cup, ⅓ cup, ¼ cup) and measuring spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, etc.) to accurately measure flour, sugar, and other ingredients. Precision here is key to achieving the perfect texture in our crumb topping and batter.
- Whisk and Mixing Utensils: A whisk for blending the dry ingredients and a rubber spatula or wooden spoon for folding in the wet mixture. These help create a smooth, lump-free batter without overmixing.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp paring knife or chef’s knife for peeling and slicing the fresh peaches, paired with a sturdy cutting board to handle the fruit prep safely and efficiently.
- Baking Pan: An 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan for assembling and baking the cake. We suggest a non-stick version to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal once baked.
Additional Equipment for Baking Success
For optimal results, consider these extras that enhance the process:
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 350°F, as specified in our instructions. Use an oven thermometer if yours varies in temperature for consistent baking.
- Peeler: A vegetable peeler to quickly remove the skin from the peaches, saving time and effort during prep.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork: A pastry cutter for cutting chilled butter into the crumb topping mixture, or a fork as an alternative to achieve that coarse, crumbly texture.
If you’re new to baking, here’s a quick comparison of essential tools based on their versatility and cost-effectiveness:
| Tool | Primary Use in Recipe | Versatility Rating (1-5) | Approximate Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients | 5 (Multi-purpose) | $10-20 per set |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate measurements | 5 (Essential for all recipes) | $5-15 per set |
| Whisk | Blending dry and wet mixes | 4 (Also for sauces) | $5-10 |
| Knife and Cutting Board | Peeling and slicing peaches | 5 (Kitchen staple) | $10-30 for a good set |
| Baking Pan | Baking the cake | 4 (Specific to baking) | $10-20 |
By having these tools ready, we can focus on the joy of creating a moist, flavorful Peach Crumb Cake that highlights the best of seasonal baking.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
As we perfect our Peach Crumb Cake, planning ahead ensures every bite remains moist and flavorful. Let’s explore smart strategies to prepare components in advance and store the finished cake for maximum freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love making this Peach Crumb Cake even more convenient by prepping elements ahead of time. Follow these steps to streamline your baking:
- Prepare the peaches: Up to 24 hours in advance, wash, peel, and slice your fresh peaches. Toss them with brown sugar and ground cinnamon, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to infuse, enhancing the juicy, sweet-tart essence that makes the cake irresistible.
- Mix the crumb topping: Assemble the topping—combining all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, chilled unsalted butter, and freshly grated nutmeg—up to 2 days ahead. Keep it in a sealed bag or container in the fridge to maintain its coarse, buttery texture, ready for sprinkling when you bake.
- Make the batter: For optimal results, prepare the cake batter 1 day ahead. Whisk together the dry ingredients like sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, then mix in the wet components—eggs, whole milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Cover and refrigerate the batter to preserve its light, airy quality, but bring it to room temperature before assembling and baking at 350°F.
By following these make-ahead steps, we ensure your Peach Crumb Cake bakes up golden brown and full of summer’s vibrant flavors without last-minute stress.
Storage Tips
Proper storage keeps our Peach Crumb Cake fresh, preserving its crunchy topping and tender crumb. Here’s how to handle leftovers confidently:
To help you track storage options effectively, we’ve compiled the details in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Store the cooled cake in an airtight container on the counter. This maintains the topping’s crisp texture, but avoid humid environments to prevent sogginess. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. The chill helps retain moisture in the peaches, but reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to restore that warm, comforting aroma and soft bite. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freeze individual slices on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven to keep the crumb topping flaky and the peach filling juicy, avoiding any loss of flavor. |
These tips keep your Peach Crumb Cake delicious and ready to enjoy, whether for a quick breakfast or a spontaneous dessert.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Peach Crumb Cake recipe and how it captures summer’s best flavors. It’s a simple way to bring warmth to your table that’s sure to impress family and friends.
As we wrap up, remember this cake’s versatility makes it our go-to for any occasion. Give it a try and let it become a cherished part of your baking routine – you’ll thank us later!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peach Crumb Cake?
Peach Crumb Cake is a delightful summer dessert featuring juicy peaches mixed into a soft cake base, topped with a crunchy crumb for added texture. Rooted in classic American baking, this modern twist combines fresh peaches with simple ingredients, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert. It’s an easy recipe that celebrates seasonal flavors and can become a kitchen staple.
What ingredients are needed for Peach Crumb Cake?
For Peach Crumb Cake, you’ll need ingredients divided into three parts: cake batter (all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, milk, butter, and vanilla), peach filling (ripe peaches, brown sugar, and cinnamon), and crumb topping (flour, sugar, butter, and nutmeg). These fresh, everyday items ensure a flavorful, moist cake that’s simple to prepare.
How do I make Peach Crumb Cake?
Start by preparing peaches: wash, peel, slice, and mix with brown sugar and cinnamon. Whisk dry ingredients for the batter, combine with wet ingredients, then assemble in a greased pan with batter, peaches, and crumb topping. Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until golden. This step-by-step process yields a delicious, textured cake in under an hour of active time.
What tools are required to bake Peach Crumb Cake?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, knife, cutting board, and baking pan for efficiency. You’ll also need an oven, peeler, and pastry cutter for best results. These versatile, cost-effective items help achieve precise results, focusing on the joy of baking this seasonal treat.
Can I make Peach Crumb Cake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the peaches, crumb topping, and batter in advance to save time. Assemble and bake when ready, as this streamlines the process for busy days. It’s ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh cake effortlessly.
How should I store Peach Crumb Cake?
Store Peach Crumb Cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered. Refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep it moist, or freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before serving to maintain flavor and texture, making it versatile for quick treats.