As I sliced into the warm Ina Garten Peach Cake, the inviting aroma of fresh peaches enveloped me like a cherished summer afternoon. This delightful dessert is the perfect tribute to those sun-soaked days, showcasing ripe peaches in their prime while boasting a moist, buttery crumb that’s simply irresistible. What I love most about this classic peach cake is that it comes together effortlessly in just over an hour—ideal for both spontaneous gatherings and planned celebrations. Not only does it serve up to eight people, but it’s also a genuine crowd-pleaser, turning skeptics of homemade desserts into instant fans. Ready to brighten your table with this peachy delight? Let’s dive into the sweetness!

Why is this peach cake so special?

Simplicity at Its Best: The Ina Garten Peach Cake is incredibly easy to make with just a handful of basic ingredients.

Bursting with Flavor: Fresh, ripe peaches shine through, bringing a natural sweetness that fills each bite with summer joy.

Moist, Buttery Texture: The cake boasts a soft crumb, enhanced by sour cream, ensuring each slice is a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Versatile Options: Switch up the fruit with seasonal alternatives like blueberries or nectarines for a refreshing twist.

Perfect for Gatherings: Serving up to eight, it’s the ideal dessert to share with friends and family, creating memorable moments over a delicious treat.

Pair this cake with a scoop of lemon sorbet or try a drizzle of raspberry coulis for an extra touch of sophistication. The combination is sure to impress!

Ina Garten Peach Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Fresh Ripe Peaches – Use 2 to 3 peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced for a juicy, flavorful treat.
All-Purpose Flour – 1½ cups provide structure and a nice crumb to the cake.
Baking Powder – 1½ teaspoons help the cake rise perfectly for that airy texture.
Salt – ½ teaspoon enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
Unsalted Butter – ¾ cup, softened, contributes richness and moisture to the cake.
Granulated Sugar – 1 cup sweetens the cake and helps create its delightful texture.
Large Eggs – 2 eggs bind the ingredients and add moisture, ensuring a luscious finish.
Sour Cream – ¼ cup adds tanginess and moistness; plain yogurt or buttermilk can be swapped in.
Vanilla Extract – 1 tablespoon deepens the flavor, making each bite richer.

Indulge in the warmth of this Ina Garten Peach Cake that celebrates summer’s bounty with every slice!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ina Garten Peach Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare a cake pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper and lightly buttering the sides. This step ensures your Ina Garten Peach Cake releases effortlessly after baking, leaving you with a beautifully intact dessert.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk together until the mixture is uniform, ensuring the baking powder is well distributed. This step lays the foundation for the structure of your cake, allowing it to rise beautifully as it bakes.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate mixing bowl, cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer, beat them on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3–5 minutes. This creaming process adds air to the batter, enhancing the cake’s texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs
Next, add 2 large eggs to the butter mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue to beat until fully incorporated and smooth. This step is crucial as it builds the cake’s moisture and structure, blending seamlessly with the creamed butter and sugar.

Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream and Vanilla
Stir in ¼ cup of sour cream and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and creamy. This addition not only adds flavor but also contributes to the moistness of your Ina Garten Peach Cake, enriching each bite with a delightful tang.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, using a spatula to fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; the batter should be slightly lumpy for the best texture. This ensures your cake will be tender and light with a moist crumb.

Step 7: Fold in Peaches
Gently fold in your sliced fresh peaches, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step not only adds sweetness but also introduces a burst of flavor that embodies summer in every slice of your Ina Garten Peach Cake.

Step 8: Pour into Prepared Pan
Pour the peach batter into your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly for uniform baking. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter. This action helps create a beautiful, even rise during baking, ensuring a visually appealing final product.

Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes. The cake is done when a digital thermometer reads 210°F (99°C) and the top is golden brown with a slight spring when touched. Enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes!

Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing, which helps it set perfectly. Now, your Ina Garten Peach Cake is ready to be enjoyed!

Expert Tips for Ina Garten Peach Cake

Peach Preparation: Slice and drain the peaches for about 10 minutes to reduce excess moisture in the batter, ensuring a perfect texture.
Sweeten and Crisp: Lightly dust the sliced peaches with fine sugar before baking for a delightful, caramelized top.
Doneness Guide: Use a digital thermometer to check if the cake is done; it should read 210°F (99°C) for the best results—this avoids under or over-baking mistakes.
Mix with Care: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the cake tender; over-mixing encourages toughness.
Serving Suggestions: Pair the Ina Garten Peach Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful finish.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months for a lovely treat later on.

Make Ahead Options

For busy home cooks, this Ina Garten Peach Cake is a wonderful candidate for meal prep! You can slice and refrigerate the fresh peaches up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to stay fresh while minimizing moisture in the batter. Additionally, you can prepare the cake batter up to 3 days ahead by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then storing them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the ingredients, fold in the peaches, and pour the batter into your prepared pan. This way, you’ll enjoy a moist and delicious cake with minimal effort, allowing you to savor every bite without the rush!

How to Store and Freeze Ina Garten Peach Cake

Fridge: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain its moist, buttery texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it can stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

What to Serve with Ina Garten Peach Cake

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the warm flavors of this sweet, fruity treat.

Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing balances the moist peach cake with a creamy, cold contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Lemon Sorbet: The refreshing citrus brightness cuts through the sweetness, offering a delightful palate cleanser after rich bites of cake.
Honey Yogurt Sauce: Drizzle a tangy yogurt sauce mixed with honey over a slice for a gourmet touch that complements the fruity flavors beautifully.
Raspberry Coulis: A vibrant, tangy coulis adds a splash of color and a tart twist that highlights the sweetness of the peaches.
Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnish with mint for a fresh pop that lifts the dessert, bringing a hint of garden freshness to each bite.
Cold Brew Coffee: The smooth, rich notes of coffee bring out the cake’s buttery depth while providing a delightful, cozy beverage to sip.
Homemade Whipped Cream: A light dollop enhances the cake’s softness, adding a touch of indulgence to this delightful summer dessert.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Riesling or Prosecco pairs beautifully, balancing the sweetness of the cake with refreshing acidity.
Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your dessert table, making for a beautiful presentation alongside the cake.

Ina Garten Peach Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this wonderful peach cake your own with these delightful variations!

Fruit Swap: Try using nectarines or blueberries in place of peaches for a refreshing twist.
Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and coconut yogurt for a delicious dairy-free version that maintains moistness.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make this cake gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Sugar Substitute: Opt for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a healthier alternative without compromising sweetness.
Crunchy Topping: Add a streusel topping made with oats and almonds for an extra crunch that complements the soft cake.
Spice it Up: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
Zesty Enhancements: Stir in some fresh lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright, citrus lift.
Caramel Drizzle: For an indulgent finish, drizzle the slice with homemade caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

With these swaps and twists, your Ina Garten Peach Cake will never be the same! It’s a piece of deliciousness just waiting to be explored. Enjoy experimenting! And for more sweet inspiration, don’t miss out on our delightful Peach Fritters Sweet or our mouthwatering Toffee Pudding Cake.

Ina Garten Peach Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of peaches should I use for this cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and sweetness, use fresh, ripe peaches that yield slightly to pressure when squeezed. Look for peaches that are fragrant and free from dark spots. Ideally, you’ll want to use 2 to 3 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced for the ultimate peachy experience.

How should I store leftover peach cake?
To keep your delightful Ina Garten Peach Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to save it for later, tightly wrap the cake in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, and the flavors will remain intact!

Can I freeze Ina Garten Peach Cake?
Definitely! To freeze your peach cake, first, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To enjoy it later, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds in the microwave for a warm treat.

What if my cake comes out dense or too dry?
While it’s disheartening if a cake doesn’t turn out as expected, don’t worry! A dense texture could mean it was overmixed or the batter was not combined gently enough. Pouring in the peaches too early or not incorporating enough moisture can cause dryness. To optimize texture, be sure to mix until just combined and check that your oven is calibrated correctly, as baking times can vary.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can substitute the sour cream with plain yogurt or even homemade buttermilk using milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Just remember, if you’re concerned about allergies, ensure all your ingredients, particularly the butter and eggs, are sourced from safe places for anyone with food sensitivities.