Summertime Delight: Southern Peach Crumb Cake
Prepare to indulge in a slice of Southern charm with our delightful Southern Peach Crumb Cake recipe! Bursting with the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches and topped with a buttery crumb topping, this cake is the epitome of summer indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a taste of the South, this crumb cake is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave your taste buds singing. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the delicious world of Southern baking!
Ingredients:
- 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 stick butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 peaches, sliced (or 1 15-ounce can sliced peaches, drained)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, and mix until just combined.
- Layer the peaches: Arrange the sliced peaches evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Make the crumb topping: In a separate bowl, combine the light brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the melted butter over the dry ingredients and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the cake: Spread the cake batter evenly over the sliced peaches in the baking dish. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cake batter.
- Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Fresh vs. Canned Peaches: While fresh peaches are ideal when they’re in season, you can also use canned sliced peaches as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to drain them well before using.
- Add Nutty Crunch: For extra texture and flavor, mix chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds into the crumb topping before sprinkling it over the cake batter.
- Glaze it Up: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled cake for an added touch of sweetness. Simply whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth and pourable, then drizzle over the cake.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour in both the cake batter and crumb topping. Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of sugar.
- Low Carb Version: Similarly, for a lower-carb option, use almond flour or a blend of almond flour and coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour. Opt for a low-carb sweetener in both the cake batter and crumb topping, and use melted coconut oil instead of butter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen sliced peaches in place of fresh peaches if they’re not in season. Be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This crumb cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the cake (unfrosted) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I add cheese to the crumb topping? A: While cheese is not a traditional addition to crumb cake, you can certainly experiment with adding grated cheese such as cheddar or Gruyere for a savory twist. Just be aware that this may alter the flavor profile of the cake.
Q: Can I use a different fruit instead of peaches? A: Absolutely! This crumb cake recipe is versatile and can be adapted to use a variety of fruits such as apples, berries, or even pineapple. Feel free to get creative and use your favorite fruits or whatever is in season.
In conclusion, our Southern Peach Crumb Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With its juicy peaches, buttery crumb topping, and tender cake base, it’s a dessert that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or any time in between, this crumb cake is guaranteed to bring a taste of Southern comfort to your table. So, why wait? Whip up a batch today and savor the sweet flavors of the South!