Name: Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4-5 peaches, cored and cut into wedges (skin on); 1 stick butter (8 tablespoons); ¼ cup water; ½ cup sugar; 1 tablespoon bourbon; ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (for peaches); 1 ¼ cup sugar (divided as ¾ cup and ¼ cup); 3 eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup almond flour; 3 tablespoons bourbon (divided as 2 tablespoons and 1 tablespoon); ½ teaspoon cinnamon (divided as ¼ teaspoon for peaches and ¼ teaspoon for batter); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 68 reviews

If you are searching for a show-stopping dessert that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a celebration, look no further than this Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake Recipe. This cake perfectly layers the luscious sweetness of ripe peaches and the rich warmth of bourbon caramel, all wrapped in a tender, moist cake that practically melts in your mouth. It’s an impressive dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly straightforward to make, promising a beautiful caramelized peach topping every single time. Get ready to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and delight your friends and family with this unforgettable treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round cake pan lined with neatly arranged peach slices forms the base layer, the peach slices showing bright orange and yellow colors with a soft texture, arranged in a circular pattern around the pan. On top, a glossy caramel sauce with a golden brown hue is slowly being poured over the peaches, lightly dusted with cinnamon powder in a dusty reddish-brown shade. In a white bowl nearby, a creamy yellow batter made from beaten butter and sugar shows a soft, fluffy texture. Another white bowl beside it contains a mix of light yellow wet batter topped with a heap of white flour and a small sprinkle of brown cinnamon powder, with a metal whisk resting inside. The entire scene is set on a white marbled surface with soft natural lighting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to the magic in this cake, each one playing an essential role. From the fresh peaches that bring juicy sweetness and vibrant color, to the bourbon adding an adult warmth and complexity, every item is simple yet special.

Peaches (4-5), cored and cut into wedges: Keeping the skin on adds color and texture to the topping.
Butter (1 stick/8 tablespoons): Provides richness and helps create the luscious caramel.
Sugar (1 ¼ cups total): Divided to sweeten the caramel and cake perfectly.
Eggs (3): Essential for that fluffy, moist cake texture.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): Forms the base of the cake structure.
Almond flour (¼ cup): Adds a subtle nutty flavor and tender crumb.
Bourbon (3 tbsp): Infuses the cake with a warm, boozy depth that elevates the flavor.
Cinnamon (½ tsp total): Sprinkled over peaches and mixed in batter for a delicate spicy warmth.
Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Enhances all the sweet, fruity flavors.
Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise to light perfection.

How to Make Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9-inch cake pan—not a springform—with parchment paper, then butter the paper to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for a smooth release of your caramelized peach topping once the cake is done.

Step 2: Arrange the Peaches

Carefully arrange your peach wedges in a beautiful pattern on the parchment-lined pan, starting from the center and working outward. Once arranged, lightly sprinkle ¼ teaspoon cinnamon over the fruit to add that hint of spice that complements the fruit’s natural sweetness.

Step 3: Make the Bourbon Caramel

Combine ¼ cup water and ½ cup sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat without stirring, watching carefully as the sugar melts and changes color from clear to a lovely light brown caramel—this takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Be vigilant here because caramel can burn quickly. Quickly stir in 1 tablespoon bourbon off the heat, then pour the golden caramel evenly over the arranged peaches.

Step 4: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and ¾ cup sugar until light, fluffy, and creamy—around three minutes. Then beat in the eggs one by one, followed by vanilla and 2 tablespoons of bourbon. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon cinnamon. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet batter until just combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cake batter over the caramel-covered peaches and smooth the surface gently with a spatula. Bake the cake in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Because of the caramel’s moisture, it may need a bit longer sometimes, so test carefully.

Step 6: Cool and Invert

Allow your cake to cool in the pan for 15 to 30 minutes to let everything set before carefully flipping it out onto a serving plate. This is the moment when your gorgeous bourbon peach topping reveals itself, caramelized and glistening.

How to Serve Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake Recipe

The image shows a three-step view of making a peach cake. The first part displays a round metal pan with evenly arranged peach slices in a circle along the edges and center, while a teal spatula spreads thick pale beige batter on top. The second part shows the same pan filled entirely with smooth, even beige batter covering the peaches. The last part reveals the finished cake on a white plate, with glossy, golden peach slices arranged in a beautiful circular pattern on top, showcasing a slightly shiny, baked surface. Everything is placed on a white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Consider topping the cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A sprinkle of toasted almond slices can add a lovely crunch that complements the soft peaches and velvety cake beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of aromatic coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine. Fresh berries on the side can brighten up the plate, balancing the warm, rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve individual slices drizzled with warm caramel sauce or glaze with a little extra bourbon caramel. Layering small mini versions of this cake in parfait glasses with whipped cream creates a stunning dessert alternative perfect for dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to four days. The cake stays moist, and the flavors actually marry even better after a day.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to revive that soft, buttery texture and release the enticing aroma of bourbon and peaches.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches in the Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake Recipe?

While fresh peaches are ideal for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen peaches if fresh aren’t available. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture to keep the caramel from becoming too watery.

Do I have to use bourbon, or can I substitute it?

Bourbon adds a unique warmth and complexity that defines this cake, but if you prefer, you can substitute with a different whiskey or even rum. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the bourbon with an equal amount of peach juice or apple juice.

Why shouldn’t I use a springform pan for this recipe?

Springform pans have removable sides that aren’t leakproof, so the caramel can leak out during baking causing a mess. A regular cake pan lined with parchment ensures the caramel stays contained and your topping remains stunning.

Can I double the Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake Recipe to make a larger cake?

You can, but it’s best to use a larger pan rather than doubling the batter in the same pan to allow even baking. Adjust the baking time accordingly and check doneness frequently.

How can I tell when the caramel is perfectly cooked?

When the caramel turns a light amber or golden brown color and has a smooth, flowing consistency, it is ready. Avoid stirring during cooking to prevent crystallization, and watch closely to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

This Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake Recipe is a true treasure for dessert lovers who appreciate the delightful marriage of fruit, caramel, and a hint of boozy elegance. Whether you are baking it for a special occasion or just to brighten up an ordinary day, this cake invites you to savor each bite and share the joy with those around you. Give it a try—you won’t regret indulging in this delicious, comforting masterpiece!