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As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, the scent of sweet peaches mingled with brown butter wafts through my kitchen, transporting me back to my grandmother’s backyard. She had a magical way of turning simple ingredients into unforgettable memories, and this Brown Butter Caramel Peach Upside Down Cake is a flavorful homage to those cherished moments. Imagine biting into a moist slice, where a rich, nutty batter meets tender, juicy peaches bathed in golden caramel. It’s a dessert that’s not only a feast for the senses but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to elevate your weeknight desserts, this cake offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress everyone at your table—and trust me, it’s just as good with apples or pineapples if you’re feeling adventurous! Get ready to savor the essence of summer in every bite!

Why choose Peach Upside Down Cake?

Deliciously Unique: This Peach Upside Down Cake combines nutty brown butter with juicy peaches, creating an irresistible flavorful treat that stands out from typical desserts.
Simplicity: The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
Versatile: Swap in your favorite fruits like apples or pineapples for a delightful twist—there’s no limit to how you can enjoy it!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for summer gatherings, this cake will be the star of any dessert table, leaving friends and family asking for seconds.
Nostalgic Touch: Evoking warm memories of summer evenings, this cake offers a taste of tradition that’s bound to warm your heart.
For more delightful summer dessert ideas, check out our Cherry Clafoutis recipe!

Peach Upside Down Cake Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Peach Upside Down Cake.

For the Cake

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and depth; essential for browning to enhance the nutty flavor. You can substitute with salted butter if needed.
Peaches – Fresh, juicy fruit that gives natural sweetness and moisture; feel free to use pineapples or apples for a fun twist.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and aids in caramel creation; no substitutions recommended for the best flavor.
Water – Pivotal in creating the caramel; no substitutes required.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides necessary structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend if desired.
Baking Powder – Vital for the cake’s rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal performance.
Salt – Enhances the flavors throughout the cake; don’t skip this ingredient!
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; nutmeg can serve as a delightful alternative.
Eggs – Provide moisture and structure; no substitutes recommended for this recipe.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a sweet aroma; consider using vanilla bean paste for even richer flavor.
Milk – Helps keep the cake moist; can be swapped for plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

For the Caramel Layer

Granulated Sugar – Key for creating the caramel glaze; watch it carefully as it cooks.
Water – Combines with the sugar to form a smooth caramel; crucial for preventing crystallization.

With these ingredients, you’re set to create a memorable Peach Upside Down Cake that everyone will love!

How to Make Peach Upside Down Cake

Brown the Butter: In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat until it becomes foamy and turns a deep amber color, about 5-7 minutes. Chill until it reaches room temperature.
Prepare the Pan: Grease an 8-inch cake pan generously, line the bottom with parchment paper, and artfully arrange peach slices in a circular pattern across the base.
Make Caramel: In a small saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat without stirring. Allow it to cook until it reaches a light amber color, about 10 minutes. Pour this rich caramel over the peaches.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined and airy.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, cream the cooled brown butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes, creating a base filled with flavor.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the aromatic sweetness.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add half of the flour mixture, then pour in the milk, followed by the rest of the flour, mixing just until combined to maintain a light texture.
Bake: Pour the batter gently over the peaches and caramel, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a plate and serve warm or at room temperature, allowing the caramel to ooze over the sides.

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

This Brown Butter Caramel Peach Upside Down Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delightful homemade dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the caramel and peach layer up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain quality. The cake batter can be mixed up to 3 days ahead and kept in the fridge, but be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pour the batter over the prepared fruit, bake, and enjoy a slice of this moist and flavor-packed Peach Upside Down Cake that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Brown Butter Caramel Peach Upside Down Cake?

Indulging in a slice of this delightful cake sets the stage for a truly memorable meal experience.

Whipped Cream: The lightness of freshly whipped cream adds a cloud-like texture that beautifully complements the rich caramel and peaches.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside your cake; the coldness and creaminess create a divine contrast to the warm, sticky dessert.
Fresh Mint: A sprinkle of fresh mint provides a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the fruitiness of the cake.
Espresso: A shot of rich espresso balances the dessert’s sweetness while adding depth and a caffeine kick—perfect for coffee lovers!
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Just a light sprinkle over the top adds a delightful crunch and spice that enhances the warm notes of cinnamon already present in the cake.
Pecans: Toasted pecans sprinkled on top or served on the side bring texture and nuttiness, enhancing the brown butter flavor profile beautifully.
Summer Berry Salad: A mix of fresh berries tossed with a hint of honey brings vibrancy and a tart contrast to the sweet flavors of the cake.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle extra caramel sauce for those who crave an indulgent treat—because who can resist more caramel?
Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade with a hint of mint offers a refreshing palette cleanser between bites.
Chocolate Sauce: For a decadent twist, serve with a side of warm chocolate sauce for dipping each luscious piece of cake.

How to Store and Freeze Peach Upside Down Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to extend its life, refrigerate the cake for up to a week—just allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds for a warm treat that revives the peachy caramel goodness of this delectable Peach Upside Down Cake.

Peach Upside Down Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with your baking—these tasty twists will elevate your cake experience!

Apple Delight: Substitute peaches with Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the caramel.
Pineapple Paradise: Swap peaches for fresh pineapple slices to enjoy a tropical flair, bringing a juicy burst to every bite.
Nutty Crunch: Top the cake with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for a delightful crunch that adds texture and richness.
Cinnamon Swirl: Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar into the batter for a spiced touch that complements the fruit beautifully.
Berry Bliss: Toss in fresh blueberries or raspberries scattered among the peaches for a juicy and colorful twist.
Dairy-Free Dream: Replace regular milk with almond or oat milk to create a deliciously inclusive dessert for all dietary needs.
Zesty Citrus: Grate in some lemon or orange zest to invigorate the flavors with a refreshing citrus note that brightens the cake.
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the caramel for a surprising kick that balances the sweetness.

Enjoy exploring these variations that will make each Peach Upside Down Cake a unique experience!

Expert Tips for Peach Upside Down Cake

Watch the Caramel: Keep a close eye on the sugar while making caramel; it can easily go from perfect to burnt in seconds. Swirl the pan instead of stirring.
Temperature Matters: Allow the brown butter to cool to room temperature before mixing it with sugar to achieve the best texture in your cake.
Fruit Alternatives: Don’t hesitate to swap peaches for other fruits such as apples or pineapples—they add their unique flair but remember to adjust cook times if needed.
Prevent Leaking: Wrap aluminum foil around the bottom of the cake pan to catch any caramel that might leak during baking, especially with juicy fruits.
Fresh Baking Powder: Always check that your baking powder is fresh for a good rise; stale ingredients can lead to a dense cake.

Peach Upside Down Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe peaches for this recipe?
Absolutely! For an optimal Peach Upside Down Cake, choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant, indicating ripeness. Look for fruits with a vibrant color and free from dark spots or blemishes, as these often indicate overripeness or spoilage. If you can’t find fresh peaches, feel free to substitute with canned or frozen options—just ensure they are well-drained.

What’s the best way to store leftover Peach Upside Down Cake?
Very! You can store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Before serving, let it come to room temperature to regain its lovely texture and flavors.

Can I freeze the Peach Upside Down Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, first slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature. To reheat, pop in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, and you’ll be savoring that caramel goodness again!

How can I troubleshoot if my caramel burns or doesn’t set properly?
If your caramel is burning, it likely means the heat is too high. Lower the heat and swirl the pan gently instead of stirring—this helps to cook it evenly. If it doesn’t set properly, ensure that you’ve measured your sugar and water correctly. When melting, avoid stirring until it has just begun to turn amber. If the caramel crystallizes, you can try adding a few drops of lemon juice during the cooking process, which helps prevent crystallization.

Are there any dietary considerations with this cake, such as allergies?
Definitely! This Peach Upside Down Cake contains common allergens like eggs, dairy, and gluten. To modify for dietary needs, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, swap cow’s milk for almond or oat milk, and use a flax or chia seed mixture as a vegan egg substitute (1 tablespoon of ground flax or chia mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals 1 egg). Always check for specific fruit allergies as well, especially if you’re experimenting with different fruits!