The Ultimate Peaches and Cream Cake for Summer Gatherings

Nothing says summer dessert quite like a Peaches and Cream Cake—a perfect combination of juicy peaches, fluffy vanilla cake, and smooth whipped cream. This dessert is light, refreshing, and bursting with fruity sweetness, making it an ideal treat for warm-weather gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a picnic, or a casual family dinner, this cake will be a showstopper on your dessert table.

What makes this Peaches and Cream Cake so special? It’s easy to make, uses fresh seasonal ingredients, and has a delightful balance of textures—soft cake, luscious cream, and tender peaches. Plus, it’s customizable! You can make it as a layered cake, a sheet cake, or even cupcakes for a fun twist.

Why Peaches and Cream Cake is the Perfect Summer Dessert

When the weather warms up, there’s nothing better than a light, fruity, and creamy dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling too heavy. Peaches and cream cake is the ultimate summer treat, offering a perfect balance of fresh flavors, soft textures, and cool creaminess. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, a family barbecue, or a picnic, this cake will quickly become a crowd favorite. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your dessert menu.

Fresh Peach Flavor

Summer is peach season, which means the fruit is at its juiciest, sweetest, and most flavorful. Using fresh, ripe peaches gives this cake a naturally sweet and slightly tangy taste that pairs beautifully with the soft cake and rich cream. Unlike artificial peach flavors, fresh peaches add a burst of real fruitiness, making every bite refreshing. If fresh peaches aren’t available, canned or frozen peaches can be a great alternative.

Light and Fluffy Cake

The cake base is a soft, buttery vanilla sponge that acts as the perfect foundation for the juicy peaches and creamy layers. Unlike dense cakes that can feel heavy in hot weather, this cake is moist yet airy, making it a great choice for warm summer days. The secret to its fluffy texture is properly whipping the ingredients and using fresh baking powder to ensure a tender crumb.

Creamy and Refreshing

A key element of this cake is the whipped cream or cream cheese frosting, which adds a cool, smooth, and slightly tangy contrast to the sweetness of the peaches and the lightness of the cake. This creamy layer makes the dessert feel indulgent yet not overly rich, making it an excellent choice for those who want a satisfying treat that doesn’t feel too heavy.

Easy to Make and Customize

One of the best things about peaches and cream cake is its simplicity and versatility. You don’t need to be a professional baker to make it, and the recipe can be easily customized to fit different preferences. Want a more rustic look? Make it a single-layer sheet cake. Prefer something elegant? Try a layered cake with extra cream filling. Looking for an on-the-go option? Turn it into peach and cream cupcakes.

With its delicious combination of textures and flavors, this cake is truly a summer staple that you’ll want to make again and again. Ready to bake one? Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Peaches and Cream Cake

The secret to a truly delicious peaches and cream cake lies in using high-quality, fresh ingredients. This recipe is made with simple, everyday pantry staples, but the combination of flavors and textures creates a dessert that is both elegant and comforting. Below is a breakdown of the key ingredients and their roles in making this cake a light, fluffy, and flavorful summer treat.

Measured ingredients for Peaches and Cream Cake, including fresh peaches, flour, sugar, butter, eggs, cream cheese, and heavy cream

For the Cake

The base of this dessert is a soft, buttery sponge cake that complements the creamy topping and juicy peaches. These ingredients help achieve the perfect texture and flavor:

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure for the cake, keeping it soft yet stable. You can also use cake flour for an even lighter crumb.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender texture.
Eggs – Add richness, moisture, and structure, helping the cake rise properly.
Unsalted Butter – Gives the cake a rich and buttery flavor while ensuring a moist crumb. Make sure to use softened butter for easy mixing.
Milk or Buttermilk – Keeps the cake moist and tender. Buttermilk adds a slight tang that enhances the cake’s flavor.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda – Work together to give the cake a light and airy texture by helping it rise.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cake’s flavor with a warm, sweet aroma. A splash of almond extract can also be added for extra depth.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.

For the Cream Layer

The cream layer is what makes this cake so light, creamy, and refreshing. It adds richness without being too heavy, making it a perfect contrast to the fluffy cake.

Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a light and airy texture when whipped. Use full-fat heavy cream for the best results.
Cream Cheese – Adds a slight tanginess and creaminess, helping to stabilize the whipped cream so it holds its shape.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream layer while keeping it smooth and lump-free.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a touch of warmth and sweetness to enhance the flavor of the cream.

For the Peach Topping

The fresh peach topping is the highlight of this dessert, adding natural sweetness and a vibrant, juicy texture.

Fresh Peaches – The star ingredient of the cake. Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If peaches are out of season, canned or frozen peaches can be used as a substitute.
Granulated Sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches and helps create a syrupy glaze.
Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and balances the sweetness, preventing the peaches from tasting too sugary.
Cornstarch (Optional) – Helps thicken the peach topping for a slightly syrupy consistency, especially if using canned peaches.

Optional Garnishes

For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, consider adding these finishing touches:

Mint Leaves – A fresh, herbal note that adds color and contrast.
Toasted Almonds or Pecans – Adds a slight crunch and nutty flavor to balance the soft textures.
Cinnamon or Nutmeg – A light dusting enhances the warm, fruity flavors.
Caramel Drizzle – A decadent topping that pairs beautifully with peaches and cream.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’ll be able to create a peaches and cream cake that is soft, fluffy, creamy, and bursting with fresh fruit flavor. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making this irresistible summer dessert.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peaches and Cream Cake

Making a peaches and cream cake is easier than it looks, and the result is a beautifully light and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any summer occasion. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you achieve a moist, fluffy cake layered with creamy goodness and juicy peaches.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start baking, it’s important to have all your ingredients measured and ready. This helps streamline the process and ensures you don’t forget anything.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line your cake pans with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the peaches by peeling and slicing them into thin wedges. If using canned peaches, drain them well and pat them dry. For frozen peaches, let them thaw completely and remove excess moisture.
Bring key ingredients to room temperature to ensure a smooth and even batter and frosting:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese (softened)

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

The base of this dessert is a soft and airy sponge cake that perfectly complements the creamy and fruity toppings.

Cream the butter and sugar – In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft and airy cake.
Add the eggs and vanilla – Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
Mix the dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to distribute the leavening agents evenly.
Alternate adding the dry and wet ingredients – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk or buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Pour the batter into prepared pans – Evenly distribute the batter between the cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.

For a smooth and effortless preparation, using a high-quality hand mixer can make all the difference when whipping cream or blending ingredients. The Ninja CI100C Immersion Blender and Hand Mixer is a versatile tool that combines power and precision, making it perfect for achieving a silky smooth batter and perfectly whipped cream for your Peaches and Cream Cake. Its ergonomic design and multiple speed settings ensure ease of use and consistent results every time.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents condensation from making the cake soggy.

Step 4: Make the Cream Layer

The cream layer adds a rich, smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the soft cake and juicy peaches.

Whip the heavy cream – In a chilled mixing bowl, beat 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream with ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Beat the cream cheese – In a separate bowl, mix 8 oz (226g) softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This helps stabilize the whipped cream, giving it a thicker texture.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture – Use a spatula to fold it in carefully, ensuring the mixture remains light and airy without overmixing.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Now comes the fun part—putting everything together!

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of the cream layer evenly on top.
Add a layer of sliced peaches – Arrange fresh peach slices over the cream, ensuring even distribution.
Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process, covering it with more cream and peaches.
For extra elegance, spread a thin layer of cream around the sides and top of the cake for a “naked cake” look or fully frost it for a smooth finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

To elevate the cake’s appearance and flavor, consider adding these finishing touches:

Sprinkle toasted nuts, such as sliced almonds or pecans, for a slight crunch.
Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.
Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warm, fruity flavors.
Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh and vibrant presentation.

Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve it cold or at room temperature for the best taste.

Tips for the Best Peaches and Cream Cake

Making a peaches and cream cake is straightforward, but a few expert tips can take your cake from good to truly exceptional. From selecting the best peaches to perfecting the cream layer, these tips will help you achieve the ideal balance of fluffy cake, creamy filling, and juicy fruit.

1. Choose the Right Peaches

The quality of your peaches plays a big role in the overall flavor of your cake. Here’s how to select the best ones:

Use ripe, fresh peaches – The juicier and sweeter the peach, the better your cake will taste. Look for peaches that are slightly soft when gently pressed but not overly mushy.
Avoid underripe peaches – Hard peaches lack sweetness and can be too tart for this dessert. Let them ripen at room temperature if needed.
Peel peaches for a smoother texture – While the skin is edible, peeling the peaches ensures a softer bite and a more refined presentation. Blanching peaches in hot water for 30 seconds makes peeling easier.
Canned and frozen alternatives – If fresh peaches aren’t in season, use canned or frozen peaches. Drain canned peaches well, and if using frozen peaches, thaw and pat them dry before adding them to the cake.

2. Bake a Light and Moist Cake

A perfectly baked cake provides the ideal base for the creamy and fruity toppings. Follow these tips to ensure a soft and airy texture:

Measure ingredients accurately – Use a kitchen scale or level off measuring cups to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the cake dense.
Use room temperature ingredients – Butter, eggs, and milk should be at room temperature to create a smooth batter that blends easily.
Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing leads to a tough, dense cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Bake at the right temperature – Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) and avoid opening the oven door too frequently, as this can cause the cake to sink.
Test for doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

3. Make the Cream Layer Extra Fluffy and Stable

The cream filling should be light, airy, and not too runny. Follow these tips to achieve the best texture:

Chill the mixing bowl and beaters – A cold bowl and beaters help the heavy cream whip up faster and hold its shape better.
Use full-fat heavy cream – Low-fat alternatives won’t whip properly and may result in a runny consistency.
Add powdered sugar gradually – This helps stabilize the whipped cream while keeping it smooth and lump-free.
Use cream cheese for extra stability – Folding whipped cream into softened cream cheese helps the cream layer hold up longer without deflating.

4. Layer the Cake Properly for the Best Presentation

A well-assembled cake not only looks beautiful but also ensures every bite has the perfect balance of cake, cream, and peaches.

Let the cake cool completely – A warm cake will melt the cream layer, making it too soft and messy.
Trim the cake layers if needed – If the cake has domed tops, level them with a serrated knife for even stacking.
Use a piping bag for even cream distribution – This ensures smooth layers without excess cream spilling over the sides.
Arrange the peaches in even layers – Instead of piling peaches randomly, arrange them evenly to prevent one side from being too heavy.

5. Keep the Cake Fresh and Flavorful

To maintain the best texture and flavor, proper storage is key.

Chill the cake before serving – Letting it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together.
Store leftovers in an airtight container – This prevents the cake from drying out and keeps it fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Avoid freezing the fully assembled cake – While the cake layers can be frozen, whipped cream and fresh peaches don’t freeze well. If you need to make it ahead, bake the cake layers in advance and assemble them fresh before serving.

With these expert tips, you’ll be able to create a peaches and cream cake that is soft, creamy, and bursting with fresh fruit flavor. Whether serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to impress!

How to Serve and Store Your Peaches and Cream Cake

Once your peaches and cream cake is beautifully assembled, knowing the best way to serve and store it ensures that every bite remains fresh, flavorful, and delicious. This section will guide you on the ideal serving techniques for maximum enjoyment and the best storage practices to maintain the cake’s texture and taste.

Serving Your Peaches and Cream Cake

A peaches and cream cake is best enjoyed chilled or slightly cool, allowing the creamy layers to firm up and the flavors to meld together. Follow these tips to serve it at its best:

1. Chill Before Slicing for Clean Cuts

After assembling the cake, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before slicing. This helps the cream filling set, making it easier to cut clean slices without the layers sliding apart.
Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the cake. Wiping the knife with a damp towel between cuts ensures smooth and even pieces.

2. Garnish Just Before Serving

If adding fresh peach slices or whipped cream swirls as decoration, do so right before serving to prevent the fruit from browning and the cream from softening.
A light dusting of powdered sugar, caramel drizzle, or mint leaves can enhance the presentation and flavor.

3. Pair with Complementary Flavors

Enhance the dessert experience by serving peaches and cream cake with complementary flavors:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess.
A drizzle of honey or caramel for added sweetness.
A cup of hot coffee or tea to balance the richness of the cake.

Storing Your Peaches and Cream Cake

Since this cake contains fresh fruit and whipped cream, proper storage is crucial to maintain its freshness and prevent sogginess.

1. Refrigerating the Cake

Store the cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. The whipped cream and peaches will stay fresh during this time, but beyond that, the texture may start to break down.
If storing individual slices, place them in a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent drying out.

2. Freezing the Cake (Before or After Assembly)

While a fully assembled peaches and cream cake does not freeze well due to the whipped cream and fresh fruit, you can freeze parts of the cake separately:

Freeze the cake layers: Wrap cooled cake layers in plastic wrap and store in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before assembling.
Avoid freezing the cream layer and peaches: Whipped cream and fresh peaches lose their texture when frozen and thawed. If making ahead, assemble the cake fresh before serving.

3. Reviving Leftover Cake

If the cake has been in the fridge for a while, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This softens the cake layers slightly while keeping the cream cool and refreshing.