Name: Delicious Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Brown Sugar (Provides sweetness and moisture; substitute with granulated sugar for lighter flavor.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Offers structure and stability; no direct substitution recommended.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Helps the cake rise; ensure it is fresh for best results.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor; can use sea salt or kosher salt.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Adds warmth and depth of flavor; omit if desired.); 1 cup Butter (Unsalted for better control over salt levels.); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Can substitute with canola oil or melted coconut oil.); 4 large Eggs (Use room temperature eggs.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Can substitute with other extracts like almond for variation.); 1 cup Milk (Can substitute with almond or soy milk for dairy-free options.); 3 cups Fresh Peaches; 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Thickener for the filling; no substitutions recommended.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Enhances flavor; can omit in a pinch.); 1 cup Mascarpone Cheese (Adds creamy texture; substitute with cream cheese for similar taste.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Can adjust quantity for desired sweetness and consistency.)

As I walked through the farmers’ market last summer, the sweet scent of ripe peaches stopped me in my tracks. I couldn’t resist picking a basket full, and that inspiration led me to create this irresistible Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling. This cake is not just a delightful dessert; it’s a celebration of summer in every moist, fluffy bite. With simple prep and a creamy mascarpone frosting, it’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Imagine impressing your loved ones with a stunning cake that showcases fresh, seasonal flavors! Are you ready to bake a slice of bliss?

Why is this cake a must-try?

Exceptional Taste: The richness of brown sugar blends beautifully with fresh peaches, creating a flavor that’s both familiar and extraordinary.
Easy to Make: This recipe features simple steps that even novice bakers can confidently tackle—no advanced skills required!
Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it as a showstopper for summer gatherings or as a cozy family treat; it suits any occasion perfectly.
Creamy Delight: The mascarpone frosting brings a delightful creaminess, enhancing the cake’s lusciousness with each bite—pure bliss!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing flavors to deepen; it’s a real time-saver.

For more delectable ideas, check out my Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins for a delightful breakfast twist or serve this cake alongside a refreshing Peach Lemonade Refreshing for the ultimate summer treat!

Brown Sugar Layer Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Layers
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture to the cake; substitute with granulated sugar for a lighter flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure and stability; no direct substitution recommended.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; ensure it is fresh for best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; can use sea salt or kosher salt.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor; omit if desired.
• Butter – Adds richness; use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels.
• Vegetable Oil – Contributes to moisture; can substitute with canola oil or melted coconut oil.
• Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; use room temperature eggs.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor; can substitute with other extracts like almond for variation.
• Milk – Acts as a moisture component; can substitute with almond or soy milk for dairy-free options.

For the Peach Filling
• Fresh Peaches – Main flavor in the filling; can use canned or frozen peaches if fresh are unavailable, reducing sugar if using sweetened canned peaches.
• Cornstarch – Thickener for the peach filling; no substitutions recommended unless using a different thickening agent.
• Lemon Juice – Enhances peach flavor and provides acidity; can omit in a pinch, but it brightens the filling.

For the Mascarpone Frosting
• Mascarpone Cheese – Adds creamy texture to frosting; substitute with cream cheese for a similar taste.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; can adjust quantity for desired sweetness and consistency.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling

Step 1: Make the Peach Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine chopped fresh peaches, brown sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Over medium heat, stir the mixture until it comes to a boil, then use a fork or potato masher to mash the peaches gently. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until thickened and reduced by half. Remove from heat and cool in the refrigerator while you prepare the cake layers.

Step 2: Prepare Cake Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, cream unsalted butter, brown sugar, and vegetable oil with a hand mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add in eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until the batter is smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Evenly divide the batter into the prepared cake pans. Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The layers should have a golden brown hue. Once baked, carefully remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting
While the cake layers cool, prepare the mascarpone frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by mascarpone cheese and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully combined and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside some frosting to decorate later, and mix in a bit of the cooled peach filling for flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cooled, cut each layer in half horizontally to create four thinner layers. Place one layer on a cake plate, spread a layer of the mascarpone frosting on top, followed by a generous dollop of the peach filling. Repeat with the next layers, stacking them carefully. Finish with the final cake layer on top.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate
Apply a thin layer of frosting on the top and sides of the assembled cake to create a crumb coat, smoothing it out with a spatula. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to set the frosting. After chilling, frost the cake with the remaining mascarpone frosting, making it as smooth or textured as you like. Decorate with sliced peaches and, if desired, a sprinkle of brown sugar crumble. Store in the refrigerator before serving.

Expert Tips for Brown Sugar Layer Cake

Cream Properly: Ensure the butter and brown sugar are creamed until light and fluffy—this step is crucial for a tender crumb in your cake.
Choose Fresh Peaches: Using ripe, fresh peaches really enhances the flavor of the filling. If using canned, check for added sugars and adjust your filling recipe accordingly.
Keep It Cool: For the mascarpone frosting, beat the cheese when it’s slightly cool to prevent it from becoming too soft—this keeps your frosting stable and fluffy.
Don’t Rush the Crumb Coat: Applying a light crumb coat before the final frosting helps lock in crumbs and results in a neater finish on your Brown Sugar Layer Cake.
Check Oven Temperature: Always check the accuracy of your oven temperature to ensure even baking—an oven thermometer can be a great investment for perfect results.

What to Serve with Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling

This delightful dessert is a perfect centerpiece for any gathering, inviting you to create a full meal experience that tantalizes the senses.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cold, a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the moist cake.
Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream enhances the cake’s richness without overpowering its delicate flavors.
Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a pop of freshness and tartness, balancing the sweetness.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink, sparkling lemonade cuts through the cake’s richness with its zesty effervescence.

Enjoy this cake alongside a simple green salad for a lovely lunch or family dinner. The freshness of the salad complements the cake’s sweetness beautifully.

Peach Sangria: Fruity and light, this sangria infuses the delicious peach notes back into your meal, enhancing the dessert experience.
Chocolate Ganache: For those who love decadent combinations, a drizzle of chocolate ganache adds depth against the peachy sweetness.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs wonderfully, making for a cozy finish to your meal.
Cheese Plate: A selection of soft cheeses adds a rich, savory contrast to the sweetness of the cake for a refined touch.

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Sugar Layer Cakes with Peach Filling are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the peach filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor. Additionally, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead, allowing them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. When it’s time to assemble, simply slice the cooled layers, frost with mascarpone, and layer the peach filling between the cakes. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress without the last-minute rush!

Brown Sugar Layer Cake Variations

Feel free to bring your own touch to this delightful cake and explore some exciting twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or soy milk and use dairy-free butter to keep it creamy without dairy.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend, ensuring you also check for a suitable baking powder.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor profile that complements the peaches beautifully.
Fruit Fillings: Experiment with seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries in place of peaches; each option brings its unique charm.
Frosting Twist: Try a lemon cream cheese frosting instead of mascarpone for a zesty contrast that brightens up the cake.
Nuts for Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the cake batter for a delightful crunch and additional flavor.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent finish that adds a rich sweetness.
Layered Surprise: Introduce a layer of peach or raspberry jam between the cake layers for added fruitiness and sweetness.

And if you’re in the mood for more fruity inspiration, why not try pairing a slice of this cake with a refreshing Peach Lemonade Refreshing or add a bit of flair with some Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins? Enjoy your cake journey!

How to Store and Freeze Brown Sugar Layer Cake

Fridge: Store leftover cake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 4 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake layers individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Peach Filling: The peach filling can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before assembling the cake.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling!

Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting fresh peaches?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh peaches, look for those that are slightly soft to the touch, with a sweet aroma. They should have a vibrant color and a smooth skin without dark spots or blemishes. Avoid overly firm peaches, as they may not be ripe enough to yield a flavorful filling.

How should I store the finished cake?
To keep your Brown Sugar Layer Cake with Peach Filling fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It stays delicious for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. If storing layers individually or looking to keep it longer, consider freezing!

Can I freeze the cake layers and filling?
Very much! For freezing, wrap each cake layer individually in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. The peach filling can also be frozen in an airtight container for about 2 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before assembly.

What if my frosting is too soft?
If your mascarpone frosting turns out too soft, don’t worry! Place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up. You can also add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it. Be cautious with the sugar, as it can change the sweetness level—adjust until you reach your desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Indeed! If you’re making this cake for someone with dietary restrictions, consider your ingredients. You can substitute the milk with non-dairy options like almond or soy milk and use gluten-free flour if necessary. If allergies to dairy are a concern, swap mascarpone cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Always ensure to check labels for hidden ingredients, especially if you’re dealing with allergies.

How long can I prepare the peach filling in advance?
The peach filling is quite flexible! It can be prepared up to 3 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and let it cool completely before using. This can help enhance its flavors and save you time on the day you assemble the cake.