Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
This Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly marries the sweetness of ripe peaches with a touch of bourbon caramel. Ideal for summer gatherings, family celebrations, or a cozy evening at home, this cake stands out with its moist texture and irresistible flavors. The warm aroma of cinnamon and bourbon will fill your kitchen, making it a memorable treat for any occasion.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of bourbon and caramel creates a rich taste that enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with ice cream or at room temperature as a lovely afternoon treat.
- Stunning Presentation: The beautiful arrangement of peaches on top makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.
- Seasonal Delight: Enjoy fresh peaches during peach season, making each bite taste like summer.

Tools and Preparation
For making this Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake, youβll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. These tools help streamline the process and guarantee great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch cake pan (not springform)
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch cake pan: This size ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect height for your cake.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to release the cake after baking.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort in achieving a light, fluffy batter.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 4-5 peaches, cored and cut into wedges. Leave the skin on.
- 1 stick butter (8 tablespoons)
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 3 tbsp bourbon
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla
- 1 tsp baking powder
How to Make Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) so that itβs hot enough when youβre ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pan
Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper. Be sure to butter the paper lightly to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Arrange the Peaches
Arrange the peach wedges over the parchment-lined bottom of the pan. Start from the center and work outward. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon over the arranged peaches.
Step 4: Make the Caramel
In a saucepan, combine 1/4 cup water with 1/2 cup sugar. Stir gently until mixed. Heat over medium-high heat without stirring for about 10-15 minutes until it turns light brown. Remove from heat, add 1 tablespoon bourbon quickly, then pour evenly over the peaches.
Step 5: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 stick of butter with 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffyβthis should take around three minutes. Add eggs one at a time while continuing to mix. Then mix in vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of bourbon.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and remaining cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon). Gradually incorporate this mixture into your batter until well combined.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Pour your cake batter evenly over the arranged peaches in the pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula if needed.
Step 8: Bake Your Cake
Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Allow your Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake to cool in the pan for about 15-30 minutes before turning it out onto a serving plate. Enjoy!
How to Serve Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Bourbon peach upside-down cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in many ways. Whether itβs a casual family gathering or a festive celebration, here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
Enjoy with Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream complements the rich flavors of the cake perfectly.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that beautifully contrasts with the warm cake.
Serve with Fresh Berries
- Fresh berries add a burst of freshness and color, making your dessert more visually appealing.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A light drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the bourbon caramel flavor and gives it an extra sweet touch.
Top with Nuts
- Chopped pecans or almonds provide a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the cake.
Accompany with Coffee or Tea
- Serving this cake alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea can elevate your dessert experience further.
How to Perfect Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
To make sure your bourbon peach upside-down cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.
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Use ripe peaches β Ripe peaches will give your cake the best flavor and sweetness.
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Donβt rush the caramel β Allowing the caramel to reach the right color and consistency will enhance the taste.
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Check your oven temperature β Baking at the correct temperature ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
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Cool before flipping β Letting the cake cool slightly helps it retain its shape when you turn it out.
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Experiment with spices β Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can elevate the flavor profile even more.
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Store properly β Keeping any leftovers in an airtight container ensures freshness for days.
Best Side Dishes for Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Pairing side dishes with bourbon peach upside-down cake can create a wonderful meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
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Mixed Green Salad β A light salad with vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the cake.
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Grilled Chicken Skewers β Savory chicken skewers add protein and complement the fruit flavors well.
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Roasted Vegetables β Seasonal roasted veggies provide earthy flavors that contrast nicely with dessert.
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Cheese Platter β A selection of cheeses offers a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of your cake.
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Savory Biscotti β These crunchy treats make for an interesting dip option alongside your dessert.
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Fruit Salad β A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate while enhancing fruity notes in your cake.
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Chocolate Fondue β For those who love chocolate, serve fondue on the side for dipping extra fruit or cake pieces.
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Spiced Nuts β A mix of spiced nuts brings crunch and heat, creating an exciting contrast to your sweet treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake, there are a few common pitfalls that can ruin your dessert. Hereβs how to avoid them.
- Using Overripe Peaches: Overripe peaches can become mushy during baking. Choose firm, ripe peaches for the best texture.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent cooking.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Failing to line your pan can result in a cake that sticks. Always use parchment paper to make removal easy.
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Not Allowing the Cake to Cool: Turning out hot cake can cause it to break apart. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before inverting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
- Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
- It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake you might have.
What is a Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake?
A Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert featuring caramelized peaches soaked in bourbon atop a moist cake, creating a perfect blend of flavors.
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in your upside-down cake.
How can I customize my Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake?
Consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch or spices like nutmeg for added flavor depth.
How do I know when my cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is ready!
Final Thoughts
This Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is not only beautiful but also incredibly delicious. With its combination of sweet peaches and rich bourbon caramel, itβs sure to impress anyone who tries it. Feel free to explore different fruits or toppings, making this recipe truly your own!
Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Experience the delightful harmony of flavors in this Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake, where juicy, caramelized peaches meet a rich bourbon-infused cake. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this dessert is sure to impress. With its moist texture and captivating aroma of cinnamon and bourbon wafting through your kitchen, this cake becomes the centerpiece of any occasion. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it on its own; either way, you’re in for a treat that captures the essence of summer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4–5 ripe peaches
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 3 tablespoons bourbon
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
- Arrange peach wedges in the pan and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- In a saucepan, combine water and sugar to create caramel, then pour over peaches.
- Beat butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs, vanilla, and bourbon.
- Combine dry ingredients and mix into batter before pouring over peaches.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for 15-30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg