Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake A Southern Classic

Southern Classic

Southern desserts are beloved for their rich flavors and comforting textures. One classic that never fails to impress is the Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake. This cake takes the traditional Southern pound cake and elevates it with the sweet, juicy flavor of peaches, making it an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a family gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why Choose Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake?

The beauty of this Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake lies in its perfect balance of textures. The dense yet tender crumb of the cake provides a solid base for the juicy, sweet peaches that bring a refreshing burst of flavor. Buttermilk adds an extra layer of richness, giving the cake a moist, velvety texture while also helping it rise to perfection.

This cake stands out because it blends the flavors of two quintessential Southern ingredients—peaches and buttermilk—to create a dessert that is both flavorful and comforting. The addition of peaches not only enhances the taste but also adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cake’s buttery richness.

Peach season is the ideal time to bake this cake, but if fresh peaches aren’t available, you can easily substitute them with canned peaches. Just ensure they’re well-drained to prevent the batter from becoming too watery. Whether you choose fresh or canned, the peaches add a lovely burst of color and flavor that makes this dessert a showstopper.

For an added touch of sweetness and a glossy finish, a simple buttermilk glaze can be drizzled on top after the cake has cooled. The glaze is entirely optional but elevates the cake, adding a final layer of creamy sweetness.

This cake isn’t just delicious—it’s incredibly easy to make. The straightforward process allows even beginner bakers to impress their guests with a homemade Southern masterpiece. You can find the full recipe, complete with ingredient measurements and step-by-step instructions, below.

For more classic Southern cake recipes, check out Southern Living’s pound cake recipes. Or if you love incorporating fruit into your desserts, consider trying a Blueberry Pound Cake, which brings a burst of summer flavor just like this peach version.

Ingredients for Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake

Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients to make this Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake a true Southern delight. The following ingredients are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – The butter provides richness and moisture to the cake, helping it achieve a tender, dense crumb.

• 2 cups granulated sugar – Sugar sweetens the batter and contributes to the cake’s golden color as it bakes.

• 4 large eggs – Eggs help bind the ingredients and contribute to the structure of the cake.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The flour is the base of the batter, giving it the structure needed to hold together, while ensuring the cake is dense yet moist.

• ½ tsp baking powder – A leavening agent that helps the cake rise, giving it a light texture.

• ½ tsp baking soda – Works in combination with the buttermilk to activate and provide lift.

• ½ tsp salt – A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.

• 1 cup buttermilk – Adds moisture and tang, creating a rich and tender cake while contributing to the slight rise and fluffy texture.

• 2 tsp vanilla extract – Vanilla adds depth and a sweet aroma to the cake, complementing the peaches perfectly.

• 2 cups fresh or canned peaches, diced and well-drained – The star ingredient, peaches infuse the cake with natural sweetness and a burst of juicy flavor. Ensure the peaches are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour – Tossing the diced peaches in a bit of flour prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar – The glaze’s primary sweetener, powdered sugar dissolves easily and gives the glaze a smooth, silky texture.

• 1–2 tbsp buttermilk or milk – This liquid is essential for achieving the right consistency for the glaze, adding a creamy texture.

• ½ tsp vanilla extract – Just a touch of vanilla adds flavor to the glaze and complements the cake’s taste.

The ingredients come together to form a perfect batter that, once baked, yields a cake that’s moist, fluffy, and full of delightful peach flavor. Each step of the process is simple, but the results are nothing short of spectacular.

If you’re looking for more variations or ideas for using peaches in desserts, try experimenting with peach cobbler or peach pie. For other fruit-forward cakes, consider making an easy and fresh Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake, which offers a tangy twist with a similar texture.

Instructions for Making Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get started on the steps to make this delicious Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake. Follow these easy instructions for a perfectly baked, flavorful cake that will have your guests asking for the recipe.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking a dense cake like pound cake, ensuring that it bakes evenly and rises properly. Next, grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan. Be sure to coat every nook and cranny of the pan to prevent the cake from sticking. You can also use baking spray that contains flour for added convenience.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Use an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to beat the two ingredients until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, helping the cake rise and giving it a tender crumb. The creamed mixture should be pale and smooth.

Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual process helps the eggs blend into the butter and sugar mixture smoothly, ensuring the batter is homogenous. Take your time with this step, as it contributes to the overall texture of the cake.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking the dry ingredients separately ensures they are evenly distributed before being added to the wet mixture, preventing any clumps in the batter.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Begin by adding the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with a portion of the dry ingredients, mix, then add some buttermilk, continuing to alternate between the two until everything is incorporated. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. This method ensures that the batter mixes evenly without overworking it, which can lead to a dense cake.

Step 6: Add Vanilla Extract

Once the batter is fully mixed, stir in the vanilla extract. This will infuse the batter with a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the peaches.

Step 7: Toss Peaches with Flour and Fold into Batter

Toss the diced peaches with 1 tablespoon of flour. This step is important as it helps prevent the peaches from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking. Gently fold the floured peaches into the batter, taking care not to overmix, as you want to preserve the fruit’s integrity.

Step 8: Pour Batter into the Prepared Pan

Carefully pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. The batter will be thick, so take your time to spread it evenly in the pan.

Step 9: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Every oven is different, so start checking around the 60-minute mark. The cake should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.

Step 10: Cool the Cake

Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes. After that, carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack to remove the cake. Allow the cake to cool completely on the rack before adding the glaze (if desired). This cooling period is essential to let the cake set and prevent it from breaking apart.

Optional Glaze for Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake

While the Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake is already delicious on its own, a simple glaze can add an extra layer of sweetness and a glossy finish, making the cake even more irresistible. The glaze is optional, but it’s a great way to enhance the flavor and presentation of the cake.

Step 1: Whisk Together the Glaze Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons buttermilk or milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Start with 1 tablespoon of buttermilk and gradually add more if needed until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. It should be smooth and pourable, but not too runny.

Step 2: Drizzle Over the Cooled Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can pour it evenly or let it cascade down the sides for a beautiful, rustic look. The glaze will set as it cools, giving the cake a sweet, shiny finish.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the glaze to firm up slightly before slicing the cake. The sweet and tangy buttermilk glaze complements the fruity peaches and rich cake, making each bite even more indulgent. This cake is perfect for special occasions, potlucks, or simply as a delightful treat with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips for Perfecting Your Peach Buttermilk Pound Cake

• Use ripe peaches: Fresh peaches add the best flavor, but make sure they are ripe to get the most sweetness and juiciness.

• Properly drain canned peaches: If using canned peaches, drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.

• Test for doneness: To ensure the cake is fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Storage: This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

If you’re looking for more inspiration for Southern desserts, try other classics like Southern Lemon Pound Cake or Hummingbird Cake. These cakes offer a similar texture and rich flavor that are perfect for any occasion.

In the next section, we’ll summarize the benefits of making this delicious Southern cake and why it should be a staple in your baking repertoire.