Ginger Peach Upside-Down Cake (Printable Version)

Golden cake with caramelized peaches and ginger, perfect for summer or special occasions.

# Components:

→ Fruit Topping

01 - 3 large ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
02 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
03 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
04 - 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger

→ Cake Batter

05 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 1 teaspoon ground ginger
10 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
11 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
12 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
14 - 1/2 cup sour cream
15 - 1/4 cup whole milk

# Preparation steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
02 - Melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in light brown sugar and grated ginger until sugar dissolves and mixture bubbles, approximately 2 minutes. Pour this caramel evenly into the prepared cake pan.
03 - Arrange the sliced peaches over the caramel mixture in a circular pattern, ensuring they overlap slightly.
04 - In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground ginger.
05 - In a large bowl, cream softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then incorporate vanilla extract.
06 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three alternating additions with the sour cream and whole milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
07 - Gently spread the cake batter over the arranged peaches, smoothing the top surface.
08 - Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake emerges clean.
09 - Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges, then invert the cake onto a serving plate and remove the parchment paper.
10 - Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Showcases seasonal peaches at their peak
  • Unique ginger flavor elevates beyond ordinary upside-down cakes
  • Makes an impressive presentation with minimal effort
  • Perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
02 -
  • The cake tastes even better the next day as flavors meld
  • Fresh ginger provides significantly better flavor than powdered
  • Can be made up to a day ahead for stress free entertaining
  • Perfectly balanced dessert that isnt overly sweet
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet instead of a cake pan for rustic presentation and better caramelization
  • For extra ginger impact add 2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger to the topping
  • Allow ingredients to come to room temperature for the most consistent results
  • Test for doneness 5 minutes before recommended baking time as ovens vary significantly