Peach Almond Pound Cake: A Perfect Summer Dessert
If you’re looking for a delicious and moist cake that captures the essence of summer, then this Peach Almond Pound Cake is the perfect choice. Made with juicy, ripe peaches and the rich, warm flavors of butter and almond, this cake is a treat that will surely impress at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a bridal brunch, an afternoon tea, or simply enjoying a sweet moment with family, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of tender crumb and sweet peaches is what makes this cake stand out, offering both comfort and indulgence in every bite.
Recipe Overview:
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Serves: 2 loaves
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Butter | 1 cup (softened) |
Margarine | 3/4 cup |
Granulated Sugar | 1 1/2 cups |
Eggs | 6 large |
All-Purpose Flour | 3 cups |
Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Sour Cream | 1 cup |
Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
Fresh Peaches (peeled & chopped) | 1 1/2 cups |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 3046.1 kcal |
Total Fat | 121.1g |
Saturated Fat | 70.8g |
Cholesterol | 903.8mg |
Sodium | 1637mg |
Carbohydrates | 455.3g |
Fiber | 6.3g |
Sugars | 309.2g |
Protein | 41.8g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by preparing your ingredients for ease of mixing. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5 inch loaf pans to prevent the cake from sticking. -
Cream the Butter and Margarine:
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup softened butter and 3/4 cup margarine. Using an electric mixer, beat them together at medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps create a light texture in the cake. -
Add Sugar:
Gradually add 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar to the butter and margarine mixture, continuing to beat at medium speed. Be patient and allow the sugar to fully incorporate into the creamed butter. This process ensures the sugar dissolves well, contributing to the cake’s texture. -
Incorporate the Eggs:
Add the 6 large eggs one at a time, ensuring you beat well after each addition. This step will help the batter hold its structure, resulting in a tender cake crumb. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well mixed. -
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt. Set this aside for later. -
Combine Peaches and Sour Cream:
In another bowl, stir together 1 cup sour cream and 1 1/2 cups fresh peaches (peeled and chopped). If you’re using fresh peaches, ensure they are ripe and juicy for the best flavor. This mixture will add moisture and a fruity sweetness to the cake. -
Alternate Dry Ingredients and Peach Mixture:
Now, it’s time to combine the dry ingredients and peach mixture with the creamed butter. Add the dry ingredients and peach mixture alternately to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Start with a third of the dry ingredients, followed by half of the peach mixture, then another third of the dry ingredients, and the remaining peach mixture. Finally, add the last of the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; stir until just blended. -
Add Flavorings:
Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. This adds depth to the cake’s flavor, complementing the sweetness of the peaches. -
Pour the Batter into Pans:
Pour the batter evenly into the two greased and floured loaf pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops of the batter and ensure they are level, which helps with even baking. -
Bake:
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 5 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cakes toward the end of baking, as oven temperatures can vary. If necessary, cover the tops of the loaves loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. -
Cool in Pans:
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10-15 minutes. This brief resting period allows the cakes to set and makes it easier to remove them from the pans without breaking. -
Turn Out the Cakes:
After the initial cooling, turn the cakes out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the cakes cool evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy. Allow the cakes to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
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Bridal Brunch or Tea: Slice the Peach Almond Pound Cake into thick slices and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The richness of the cake pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit compote or a drizzle of honey.
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Afternoon Snack: Pair a slice of cake with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee. The subtle flavors of almond and peach make this the perfect treat for a quiet moment.
Baking Tips:
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Peach Selection: For the best results, use ripe, juicy peaches. You can substitute with frozen peaches if fresh ones are unavailable, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter.
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Flour Mixture: For a lighter texture, you can sift the dry ingredients together before mixing them into the batter. This will help prevent any lumps and ensure an even distribution of the baking soda and salt.
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Storage: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
This Peach Almond Pound Cake is an easy yet sophisticated dessert that’s perfect for a variety of occasions. Its tender crumb, coupled with the sweetness of peaches and a hint of almond, makes it a delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether served at a special event or enjoyed as a simple afternoon snack, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.