Delve into the heartwarming world of Grandma’s kitchen with a timeless treat that captures the essence of comfort and indulgence—the Caramel Peach Upside Down Cake. This delightful dessert, passed down through generations, seamlessly combines the rich flavors of caramelized brown sugar, succulent peaches, and a moist cake batter. Join us on a culinary journey as we uncover the secrets behind Grandma’s cherished recipe and learn how to recreate this classic Caramel Peach Upside Down Cake in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
Base:
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups fresh peaches (about 3-4 peaches), sliced 1/2-inch thick, peeled
- Alternatively, 1 small can drained, or frozen unsweetened peach slices, thawed and large slices cut in half lengthwise
Cake Batter:
- 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1-1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Preparation:
- Prepare the Base: Start by mixing softened butter and brown sugar, creating a delectable foundation for the cake. Spread this mixture evenly on the bottom of a 9×2 inch pie dish or round cake pan, ensuring the pan has a depth of at least 2 inches.
- Arrange the Peaches: Artfully arrange the fresh peach slices in a pattern over the sugar mixture. Whether you opt for the natural sweetness of fresh peaches or the convenience of canned or frozen slices, each bite promises a burst of fruity flavor.
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This combination forms the backbone of the cake, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the room temperature egg and beat until the mixture achieves a light and fluffy consistency. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk, beating on low until a smooth, velvety batter is formed.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the prepared batter over the arranged peaches, ensuring an even distribution. Bake the cake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes.
- Invert and Serve: Run a knife around the sides of the pan, place a platter on top, and carefully invert the cake onto the platter. If any peach slices stick to the pan, lift them off gently and replace them on top of the cake for a picture-perfect finish.
- Indulge: Serve the Caramel Peach Upside Down Cake warm, accompanied by a scoop of your favorite ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Let the decadence of Grandma’s recipe delight your taste buds with every bite.
Conclusion: In the realm of Grandma’s cooking, the Caramel Peach Upside Down Cake stands as a testament to tradition, love, and the joy of shared moments around the table. This timeless recipe not only offers a glimpse into the past but also invites you to create lasting memories in your own kitchen. As you savor each heavenly bite, you’ll find yourself transported to a simpler time, where the aroma of freshly baked treats filled the air, and the warmth of family gatherings left an indelible mark on the heart. Enjoy the magic of Grandma’s kitchen with this indulgent dessert, and let the sweet legacy of the Caramel Peach Upside Down Cake continue to sweeten generations to come.