Peach Cake

Peach Cake: A Fragrant and Refreshing Delight

Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today we will prepare a peach cake together that will enchant your senses. This recipe is perfect for adding a touch of summer flavor to every day, making it ideal for a dessert with friends or to indulge in after a long day. Before we get started, let's discover some interesting aspects about this cake.

A Brief History of Fruit Cakes

Fruit cakes have a long tradition in global cuisine. It is believed that the use of fresh fruits in cakes began in the medieval period when sweets were made from simple yet fragrant ingredients. Peaches, with their sweet and juicy flavor, have become a staple ingredient in cake recipes due to their versatility. Today, peach cake is loved by many, being a delicacy that brings a touch of nostalgia and joy.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 375 g flour
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 225 g butter/margarine, cold, cut into cubes
- 1 egg

For the filling:
- 5 cups diced or sliced peaches (about 7 peaches, peeled)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 60 g flour
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Preparing the Cake

Step 1: Preheating the Oven

We start by preheating the oven to 190 degrees Celsius (375 degrees Fahrenheit). Make sure the oven is well heated before placing the cake in, to achieve even baking. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the cold, cubed butter with the granulated sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to cream the ingredients until you achieve a creamy and smooth mixture.

2. Add the egg and continue mixing until it is fully incorporated into the dough.

3. In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder and salt. Incorporate this mixture into the butter composition, mixing gently until the dough becomes homogeneous.

4. Divide the dough into two equal parts. One part will be used immediately, while the other will be refrigerated to firm up.

Step 3: Preparing the Filling

5. Wash and peel the peaches, then cut them into cubes or slices. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and maintain their vibrant color.

6. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This mixture will add a delicious flavor to the peaches. Pour these ingredients over the peaches and gently mix to coat the fruit evenly.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

7. Take a portion of the dough that has been left at room temperature and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Place the dough in the lined baking tray, ensuring it reaches the edges of the tray.

8. Evenly distribute the peach mixture over the dough in the tray.

9. From the remaining dough, cut small pieces and sprinkle them evenly over the peach filling. This step will create a delicious and crispy crust on top.

Step 5: Baking

10. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the top becomes slightly golden. You will know the cake is ready when the delicious aroma of peaches and spices fills the entire kitchen.

11. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the tray before cutting it into squares. This step is essential to prevent the filling layer from spilling out.

Serving Suggestions

Peach cake can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream. The flavors complement each other perfectly, and the creamy texture of the ice cream will contrast beautifully with the crispy crust of the cake. You can also add chopped toasted nuts for an extra crunch.

Nutritional Benefits

Peaches are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They contain vitamins A and C, which support skin health and the immune system. They are also a good source of fiber, aiding digestion. However, considering the amount of sugar, it's best to enjoy this cake in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, you can use canned peaches, but make sure to drain them well before use.

2. What other fruits can I use?
This recipe is versatile! You can experiment with apricots, plums, or apples.

3. How can I make the cake gluten-free?
Replace the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour, such as almond flour or special gluten-free cake mixes.

4. How long does the cake last?
The cake keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days, and in the refrigerator, it can last up to a week. You can even freeze it to enjoy later.

Variations and Tips

- Add a splash of vanilla: A dash of vanilla extract added to the dough will enhance the cake's flavor.
- Experiment with spices: You can add ginger or cloves to give an even more complex taste to the filling.

Now that you have all the necessary details, you are ready to put your culinary skills into practice! The peach cake will pamper you and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!