Peach Cake

Peach Cake: A Simple Yet Refined Delight

Who doesn’t adore the sweet aroma of ripe peaches, combined with a fluffy and moist batter? This peach cake is not only a quick and easy recipe, but also a return to childhood flavors, when homemade cakes were a true celebration. Perfect for a weekend dessert or a sweet afternoon snack, this cake is sure to impress everyone.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the batter:
- 4 large eggs
- 350 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 400 ml oil (sunflower oil is ideal)
- 200 ml natural yogurt (Greek yogurt adds a special creaminess)
- 500 g flour (approximately)
- 1 baking powder
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (or you can use natural vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for an extra flavor)
- 3-4 large, well-ripened peaches, sliced

Ingredient Details

Eggs: Choose fresh eggs, preferably from free-range hens, to achieve a cake with a more vibrant color and better taste.

Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar for a caramelized flavor or with natural sweeteners, such as maple syrup, if you are looking for a healthier option.

Yogurt: If you want to reduce calories or achieve a cake with lower fat content, Greek yogurt is an excellent choice.

Peaches: Choose ripe but firm peaches. They will add natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.

Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This is an essential step to ensure even baking.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the eggs and sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture becomes frothy and light yellow. This will help aerate the batter, resulting in a fluffy cake.

3. Adding wet ingredients: Add the yogurt, oil, and lemon zest to the egg and sugar mixture. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well integrated.

4. Combining dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This step will help prevent lumps in the batter. Then, fold the flour mixture into the wet mixture, gently mixing with a spatula until the ingredients are well combined. Do not overmix, or the cake will become dense.

5. Preparing the baking pan: Line a baking tray with parchment paper, ensuring it fits perfectly in size. This will make it easier to remove the cake after baking.

6. Pouring the batter: Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and level the surface with a spatula.

7. Arranging the peaches: Slice the peaches and arrange them beautifully in rows on the surface of the batter. They will not only add an attractive appearance but also enhance the flavor of the cake.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cake for about 45 minutes. It’s important to ensure that the cake is fully baked; you can check this by inserting a toothpick in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

9. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. You can dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant look.

Serving Suggestions

This peach cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a serving of fresh cream. It offers a delicious contrast between the sweetness of the cake and the creaminess of the ice cream, turning dessert into a true gastronomic experience.

Possible Variations

If you want to try something different, you can replace the peaches with other seasonal fruits, such as apricots or plums. You can also add chopped nuts or almonds to the batter for a crunchy texture.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The yogurt adds protein, while peaches are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants. Additionally, whole wheat flour can be used for a higher fiber content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of yogurt?
Yes, you can use any type of yogurt, but Greek yogurt will make the cake moister and richer.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar added to the batter or use very ripe peaches, which are naturally sweeter.

3. Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, this cake can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

This peach cake is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare it for a family gathering, a picnic, or just to treat yourself, this cake will surely become a favorite for everyone. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a pleasant cooking experience! Enjoy your meal!