Heavenly Summer Peach Caramel Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 ½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

¾ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup whole milk

For the Peach Layer:

3 large ripe peaches, thinly sliced

2 tbsp granulated sugar

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar

¼ cup water

½ cup heavy cream

3 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

For Topping:

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Extra caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions:

Prepare the Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

Prepare the Peach Layer:

In a bowl, toss the peach slices with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 15 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Caramel Sauce:

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium heat without stirring until the mixture turns a deep amber color.

Carefully add the cream (it will bubble vigorously), then stir until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.

Assemble the Cake:

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of caramel sauce over the top, then arrange half the peach slices over the caramel.

Place the second cake layer on top, spread with caramel sauce, and arrange the remaining peaches. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top for a luxurious finish.

Serve:

Slice and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy this heavenly summer treat!

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Assembly Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 10-12

Notes:

Make Ahead: The cake layers and caramel sauce can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble just before serving for the freshest presentation.

Peach Variations: Substitute with nectarines or add berries for a fruity twist.