Bourbon-Peach Upside-Down Skillet Cake

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, fruity cake fresh from the skillet, especially when it features juicy peaches and a splash of bourbon flavor. This Bourbon-Peach Upside-Down Skillet Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. The caramelized brown sugar and butter topping meld beautifully with the tender peaches, while the cake itself is moist and fluffy thanks to buttermilk and vegetable oil. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple weekend treat, this cake promises to impress with its rich flavors and inviting aroma.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Bourbon-Peach Upside-Down Skillet Cake is a showstopper for many reasons. First, it combines the natural sweetness and slight tang of ripe peaches with the deep, smoky notes of bourbon, creating a flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and comforting. The skillet method not only makes for a rustic presentation but also ensures that the cake cooks evenly and develops a beautifully caramelized crust where the fruit sits. Plus, it’s incredibly straightforward to make, requiring pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

The use of brown sugar and butter in the topping creates a luscious caramel layer that complements the peaches perfectly, while the cake batter is tender and moist thanks to the oil and buttermilk. This means no heavy or dry crumb here — just a soft, flavorful bite every time. If you love recipes that feel like a hug on a plate, this is definitely one to bookmark. For a well-rounded dessert experience, consider pairing it with something bright and fresh like a fruit salsa with cinnamon chips to add a contrasting zing.

Ingredients

• 3 medium peaches, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional but recommended)

How To Make Bourbon-Peach Upside-Down Skillet Cake

Prepare the Peach Topping

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 10-inch oven-safe skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar until it completely dissolves and the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This caramel base will be the luscious topping for your peaches.

Arrange the Peaches

Remove the skillet from the heat and carefully arrange the sliced peaches evenly over the brown sugar mixture. The peaches will soak up some of that caramel-y goodness as the cake bakes, so make sure they’re spread out in a single layer. Set the skillet aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These leavening agents will ensure your cake rises perfectly and has a light crumb.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, buttermilk, and bourbon, mixing until fully incorporated. The bourbon adds a subtle warmth that pairs wonderfully with the peaches, but you can skip it if preferred.

Make the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter evenly over the peaches in the skillet, spreading it out gently with a spatula. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the skillet for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert the skillet onto a serving plate so that the caramelized peaches are on top. Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Expert Tips

• Use ripe but firm peaches for the best texture and flavor—overripe peaches can become too mushy during baking.
• Make sure your skillet is oven-safe; cast iron works beautifully for even heat distribution.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking—the cake firms up a bit, making it easier to flip without breaking.
• For a deeper caramel flavor, let the brown sugar and butter mixture cook for a few extra minutes, but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar—let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• To add a touch of spice, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the peaches before pouring the batter.

Variations and Customizations

• Fruit Swap: Substitute peaches with nectarines, plums, or even apples for a different fruity twist.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: Omit the bourbon and replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract or peach juice for flavor.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the brown sugar mixture before adding the peaches for a crunchy texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to make this cake gluten-friendly.
• Sweeten It Up: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the cake just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Bourbon-Peach Upside-Down Skillet Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to five days. Before serving chilled leftovers, warm the cake in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to revive its softness and flavor. This cake also freezes well—wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

FAQ

Can I make this cake without bourbon?

Absolutely! The bourbon adds a lovely depth of flavor, but you can omit it entirely or replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract or peach juice to keep the flavor profile bright and fruity.

What kind of skillet should I use?

A 10-inch oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron, is ideal. Cast iron provides even heat distribution, which helps the cake bake uniformly and develop that perfect caramelized crust.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. The edges should also be golden and starting to pull away slightly from the skillet.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the peach topping and batter separately ahead of time and assemble it just before baking. The baked cake is also delicious served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for make-ahead dessert options.

Conclusion

This Bourbon-Peach Upside-Down Skillet Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the sweet, juicy essence of peaches with a rich, buttery caramel topping and a tender, moist cake base. Its simplicity in preparation and impressive presentation make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to impress with minimal fuss. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or serving leftovers warmed up, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings for a comforting, fruity treat. Give it a try and savor the beautiful blend of flavors and textures in every slice!

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