Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
This Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the sweetness of peaches with a rich, caramel flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this cake impresses with its moist texture and stunning presentation. Even without alcohol, this recipe remains delicious, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of this irresistible treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet peaches and caramel creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake in no time, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatile Dessert: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday gathering, this cake fits right in at any occasion.
- Stunning Presentation: The beautiful arrangement of peaches on top makes this cake not only tasty but visually appealing too.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the unique blend of flours and eggs, each slice is soft and moist, making it hard to resist!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch cake pan: A standard size that ensures even baking and the right thickness for your cake.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes removing the cake hassle-free.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort while achieving the perfect batter consistency.

Ingredients
For this Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake, gather the following ingredients:
For the Topping
- 4-5 peaches, cored and cut into wedges (leave the skin on)
- 1 stick butter (8 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
For the Cake Batter
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 3 tbsp bourbon (substitute with fruit juice or broth)
- 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 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pan
Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper. Butter the paper generously to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Arrange Peaches
Arrange the peach wedges over the parchment in a circular pattern. Start from the center and work your way outwards. Sprinkle 1/4 tsp of cinnamon over the peaches for added flavor.
Step 4: Make Caramel
In a saucepan, combine 1/4 cup water with 1/2 cup sugar. Stir gently to mix. Heat over medium-high until it turns light brown (10-15 minutes). Do not stir while heating. Once done, remove from heat and quickly add 1 tablespoon bourbon or an alternative liquid before pouring it evenly over the peaches.
Step 5: Prepare Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, beat together the stick of butter and 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then incorporate vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons bourbon or substitute.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and remaining cinnamon. Gradually beat this mixture into your batter until just combined.
Step 7: Pour Batter Over Peaches
Carefully pour the batter over the arranged peaches in the pan. Smooth out the surface with a spatula for an even bake.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when done.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 15-30 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate. Enjoy your delicious Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake!
How to Serve Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Serving your Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake can enhance its delightful flavors and create a memorable dining experience. Here are some creative suggestions to complement this delicious dessert.
Pair with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy touch, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream
- The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm cake, creating a comforting dessert.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- Adding warm caramel sauce on top enhances the flavor profile, giving it an extra layer of richness.
Add Fresh Mint Leaves
- Garnish with fresh mint for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
Enjoy with a Side of Berries
- A mix of fresh berries can provide a tart contrast that complements the sweet peaches and caramel.
How to Perfect Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
To ensure your Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use ripe peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining your pan will help ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.
- Monitor baking time: Check for doneness around 30 minutes; ovens vary in temperature, so adjust as needed.
- Let it cool properly: Allowing the cake to cool before inverting helps it maintain its shape and prevents breakage.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on flavor.
- Store leftovers correctly: Keep any leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options to consider.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Savory chicken skewers offer a hearty balance to the dessert’s sweetness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and flavor, complementing the cake’s fruity notes.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can enhance your dessert experience by providing savory notes alongside the sweet flavors.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach is an excellent side that adds nutrients without overpowering sweetness.
- Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad can refresh the palate while echoing the peach theme of your dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Boldly skipping the parchment paper: Without lining your cake pan, the cake may stick and break apart when you try to flip it. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
- Boldly overcooking the caramel: If you let the sugar cook too long, it can burn and ruin the flavor. Keep an eye on it and remove it from heat as soon as it turns light brown.
- Boldly mismeasuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are key to success. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
- Boldly neglecting to cool before flipping: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes helps it set. Flipping too soon can cause it to fall apart.
- Boldly ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different, so be aware that yours might run hotter or cooler. Use an oven thermometer if you’re unsure about your settings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake:
Can I substitute other fruits in this Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake?
Yes! You can use any stone fruit like cherries or plums. Just ensure they are ripe for the best flavor.
How do I know when my Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is done?
The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
What should I serve with my Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake?
It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, enhancing its flavors beautifully.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
This Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is not only visually stunning but also deliciously moist and flavorful. Its combination of sweet peaches and caramel makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or other spices, making this dessert versatile enough for every palate.
Peach Upside-Down Cake
Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is a show-stopping dessert that harmoniously blends the luscious sweetness of ripe peaches with a rich caramel flavor. This delightful cake is perfect for any occasion, from summer gatherings to cozy family dinners. The stunning presentation and moist texture make it an irresistible treat that everyone will love, even without alcohol. Indulge in this fruity masterpiece that combines ease of preparation with gourmet results!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4–5 ripe peaches, cored and cut into wedges
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup fruit juice or broth (substituting bourbon)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper and butter it generously.
- Arrange the peach wedges in a circular pattern on the bottom of the pan and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- In a saucepan, combine 1/4 cup water and 1/2 cup sugar; heat until light brown to create caramel. Pour over the peaches.
- In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla.
- In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and remaining cinnamon. Gradually add this to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour batter over the peaches and smooth the surface.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling in the pan for 15-30 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg