Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake

Last updated on June 27, 2025

Baking is often associated with warmth, comfort, and a sense of home. I still remember the days I would visit my grandmother, who was a wizard in the kitchen. The sweet aroma of her peach cobblers filled the entire house, and the sight of golden-brown cakes cooling on the counter evoked a sense of nostalgia and joy. One recipe that encapsulates this cozy essence is the Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake. It’s a dish that beautifully marries the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches with the deep, warming notes of bourbon, all sitting atop a rich, buttery cake.

Are you looking to impress your family or bring a touch of homemade deliciousness to a gathering? Perhaps you want a dessert that feels indulgent but doesn’t require the skills of a professional pastry chef. Either way, this Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake has got you covered.

In this post, I’ll not only share my treasured recipe, but I will also guide you through each step, provide tips along the way, and help you navigate potential pitfalls that might arise. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or someone looking to further hone your baking skills, there’s something here for you. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive in!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake

Every great cake starts with quality ingredients. For this Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake, you will be using a mix of fresh fruit, butter, and a few pantry staples. Let’s break these down into essential and optional add-ons!

Essential Ingredients

Peaches: You’ll need 4-5 medium ripe peaches. I prefer to use them with the skin on for added texture and flavor. The peaches should be juicy and sweet—they’re the star of the show.
Butter: One stick or 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter is necessary. This will give your cake a rich flavor and tender crumb.
Sugar: About 1 cup and 1/4 cup sugar is essential for both the cake and the caramel. It’s the cornerstone of sweetness that balances the tartness of the peaches.
Eggs: The recipe calls for 3 large eggs, which help bind the ingredients and create a light, fluffy texture.
All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need 1 cup for the cake’s base.
Almond Flour: A 1/4 cup of almond flour adds a lovely nutty flavor and makes the cake more tender.
Bourbon: The star ingredient! 3 tablespoons add a complex depth of flavor, complementing the sweetness of the peaches.
Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon enhances the flavor profile and brings warmth to the cake.
Vanilla: A 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, because who doesn’t love the aroma of vanilla wafting through the kitchen?
Baking Powder: Just 1 teaspoon is vital for making the cake rise.

Optional Add-ons

Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added for a crunchy topping.
Ground Ginger: A pinch can add a delightful zing that pairs beautifully with the peaches and bourbon.
Other Fruits: Feel free to mix in some berries or other stone fruits if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake Step-by-Step

Now, let’s get to the fun part—baking! While it may sound intimidating at first, I promise you that making this Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s how you do it step by step.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly heated oven is key to achieving that perfect rise and golden color.

Take a 9-inch cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal. Don’t skip this step! After laying the parchment, butter the paper generously. This will ensure that your cake turns out smoothly, free from sticky situations.

Step 2: Arrange the Peaches

Now comes the fun part—arranging your peaches! Take your freshly sliced peaches and start placing them in your prepared pan. I like to begin at the center and work my way outwards, meticulously creating a beautiful pattern. After arranging the peaches, sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon over them. This not only adds flavor but also gives your cake an irresistible aroma as it bakes.

Step 3: Make the Caramel

In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of water with 1/2 cup of sugar. Stir to mix and then heat over medium-high heat. Here’s a pro tip: Avoid stirring the mixture while it’s heating. Instead, gently swirl the pan occasionally. You’ll want to keep an eye on it as it turns light brown, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

Once the sugar has turned a lovely amber color, remove it from the heat and quickly add 1 tablespoon of bourbon. Be careful; it may bubble up! Pour the caramel evenly over the peaches in the pan, ensuring they are all nicely coated.

Step 4: Make the Cake Batter

Now, let’s move on to the cake batter. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 stick of softened butter with 3/4 cup of sugar. Beat it until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3 minutes. You want to incorporate as much air as possible to give your cake that lovely light texture.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, allowing each to fully incorporate. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for building a good base. After the eggs, beat in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla and 2 tablespoons of bourbon. The bourbon adds that deliciously rich flavor that ties the whole dish together.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon. Slowly beat this flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. You don’t want to overmix, or your cake may turn out dense instead of fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Now it’s time to pour the cake batter over your arranged peaches. Gently smooth the surface using a spatula. Make sure the batter evenly covers the peaches and caramel—this will help the flavors meld beautifully as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake

Once assembled, place the cake in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15-30 minutes. I know it’s hard to wait, but cooling allows the flavors to settle and makes flipping much easier.

To unveil your masterpiece, place a large plate over the top of the pan, then carefully flip it over. Gently lift off the pan and parchment paper. What you should see is a golden cake dotted with luscious peaches, glistening under the caramel glaze.

Let it cool a bit more before slicing; serve it warm or at room temperature. I love adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to enhance the experience.

FAQs About Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake

Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes! Just thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
What if I don’t have bourbon?
You can substitute vanilla extract or omit it entirely, though the flavor will alter significantly.
How can I tell when the cake is done?
A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center, and the top should be golden brown.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
What should I serve with it?
It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! Plums, cherries, or even apples would also work well.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double it and use larger pans, but baking time may vary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not lining the pan: Ensure the pan is lined and buttered to avoid cake sticking.
Overmixing the batter: It’s key to mix just until incorporated.
Not using ripe peaches: Underripe peaches can lead to a lackluster flavor.
Ignoring baking temperature: Preheating is essential for a well-risen cake.
Skipping the cooling step: Letting it cool ensures a cleaner flip and better texture.

Quick Wins and Pro-Level Tips

Use a non-stick pan: This can make removal even simpler.
Experiment with flavors: Add a splash of orange juice to the batter for a citrusy twist.
Let caramel cool slightly: If you find the caramel too hot to handle, let it cool for a few seconds before pouring.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Baking a Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating something that fills your kitchen with warmth and aroma, something that you can share with friends and family. This cake combines simple techniques with rich flavors, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.

So, grab those ingredients and give this delightful dessert a try! I encourage you to share your own experiences in the comments below and let me know how it turns out. Did you add any of your own twists? Have any questions? Let’s chat!

And while you’re in the kitchen, why not check out some of my other favorite recipes? You might enjoy a classic apple pie or a zesty lemon loaf cake that also embodies the cozy charm of home baking. Happy baking!

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