Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

Name: Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2¼-2½ cups all purpose flour; ½ cup sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 pinch salt; ½ cup cold butter (very cold); 1 egg; 2½ cups sliced peaches (peeled, sliced then halved; can substitute canned peaches—drain well); 1½ tablespoons sugar

Published: July 30, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of sweet peaches and buttery crumbs creates an irresistible flavor profile.
Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a delightful dessert at dinner.
Beautiful Presentation: This cake’s golden crust and vibrant peach filling make it visually appealing for any gathering.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

8-inch cake pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Pastry blender or fork
Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

8-inch cake pan: Ideal size for even baking and easy serving.
Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without mess.
Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter for a light texture.
Pastry blender or fork: Essential for achieving that perfect crumbly topping.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

2¼-2½ cups all purpose flour
½ cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 pinch salt
½ cup butter (very cold)
1 egg

For the Peach Filling

2½ cups sliced peaches (peeled, sliced then halved; can substitute canned peaches—drain well) (650 grams)
1½ tablespoons sugar

How to Make Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper. If available, using a springform pan makes removal easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the sliced peaches and sugar. Set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Make the Crumb Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour (starting with 2¼ cups), sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter using a pastry blender or fork until you achieve a crumbly texture. Then add the egg and mix just until combined while keeping it crumbly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Add approximately ½ to ⅔ of the crumb mixture into the prepared cake pan. Gently press it down with your fingers. Spoon the peach mixture on top evenly and sprinkle with the remaining crumb mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until lightly golden on top. Once baked, let cool before slicing. Serve with vanilla ice cream if desired. Enjoy your delicious Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake!

How to Serve Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

This Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance its flavor and presentation.

Serve with Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a rich contrast to the fruity cake, making it an indulgent dessert.

Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream will complement the peaches beautifully, adding a silky texture to each bite.

Enjoy for Breakfast

This crumb cake makes for a lovely breakfast option when paired with coffee or tea. It’s a sweet start to the day!

Add a Sprinkle of Powdered Sugar

Dusting powdered sugar on top provides an elegant finish and enhances the overall sweetness of the cake.

Serve with Fresh Mint Leaves

Garnishing with fresh mint adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Accompany with Fruit Salad

A side of mixed fruit salad brightens the plate and offers a refreshing contrast to the warm cake.

How to Perfect Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

To ensure your Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches deliver the best flavor. If they are not in season, canned peaches can be used but ensure they are well-drained.
Chill Your Butter: Very cold butter is essential for achieving the crumbly texture. Cut it into small pieces before mixing it with dry ingredients.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake. The mixture should remain somewhat crumbly for that perfect crumb texture.
Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready!
Let It Cool: Allow your cake to cool slightly before slicing. This helps set the crumb and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

Pairing your Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt adds creaminess and cuts through the sweetness of the cake, making it more balanced.
Herbed Salad: A light salad with arugula, basil, and lemon vinaigrette offers freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of peach cake.
Honey Drizzled Ricotta: Creamy ricotta cheese drizzled with honey brings a sweet yet creamy element that pairs wonderfully with fruity desserts.
Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds or walnuts adds crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture profile.
Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: These crispy chips will provide a delightful crunch alongside each slice of cake, especially when served warm.
Berry Compote: A warm berry compote can be spooned over slices for added sweetness and tartness, further enhancing the peach flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few to watch out for:

Ignoring the butter temperature: Using butter that isn’t very cold can lead to a dense cake. Ensure your butter is chilled before mixing it into the flour.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much will result in a tough texture. Combine the ingredients until just mixed for a light and crumbly cake.
Skipping the peach preparation: Not properly preparing your peaches can result in excess moisture. Always peel, slice, and halve them before adding to the batter.
Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) before placing your cake inside.
Using fresh peaches only: If fresh peaches aren’t available, using canned ones can work too. Just make sure they are well-drained to avoid excess liquid.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

Wrap slices tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 20-30 seconds.
Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake that might help you during preparation:

Can I use frozen peaches for Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake?

Yes, frozen peaches can be used. Just thaw and drain them well before adding to the recipe.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine as a substitute for butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

How do I make this Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend works well, but ensure you check that it has xanthan gum included or add it separately.

Can I add nuts or other fruits to this crumb cake?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance flavor and texture. You can also mix in berries or other fruits you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you serve it as dessert, snack, or even breakfast, its delightful peach flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings!

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