Southern Peach Crumb Cake Recipe

Key Ingredients:

1. Fresh or Canned Peaches
   Fresh Peaches: When in season, fresh peaches are ideal as they add a juicy, sweet flavor. Be sure to slice them thinly for even distribution.
   Canned Peaches: If fresh peaches aren’t available, canned peaches work well. Just be sure to drain them thoroughly to prevent extra moisture in the cake.
2. Sour Cream
   Adds Moisture: Sour cream is key to creating a tender and moist crumb. It also adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
   Substitutions: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream if needed, but choose full-fat for the best texture.
3. Brown Sugar in Crumb Topping
   Depth of Flavor: Light brown sugar adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness that complements the peaches.
   Alternative Sugars: For a more robust flavor, you can use dark brown sugar, which has a deeper molasses taste.
4. Cinnamon
   Classic Spice: Cinnamon is the perfect spice to bring out the sweetness in the peaches and adds warmth to the crumb topping.
   Additional Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can also be added for a hint of extra warmth.
5. All-Purpose Flour
   Structure for Cake and Crumble: The all-purpose flour gives the cake structure and helps create a crumbly topping.
   Sifting for Texture: Sift the flour before adding to ensure a light, lump-free batter.
   Step-by-Step Instructions:
   Preheat the Oven
   Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour a 9-inch round baking pan, using butter or non-stick spray, and dust with flour, tapping out any excess.
   Prepare the Cake Batter
   Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and a smooth texture.
   Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1/2 cup sugar and 1 stick of softened butter until light and fluffy.
   Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 2 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
   Combine with Dry Ingredients: Alternately fold in the flour mixture and 1 cup sour cream, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Gently fold until just combined, using a spatula or wooden spoon to avoid overmixing.
   Assemble the Cake
   Spread Batter: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the surface.
   Add Peaches: Arrange the sliced peaches in a single layer on top of the batter, which will add a burst of sweetness to each slice.
   Make the Crumb Topping
   Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup light brown sugar, 1 cup flour, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.
   Add Butter: Pour in 1/2 cup melted butter and stir until the mixture forms moist clumps. This will become the crumbly, spiced topping.

Bake the Cake
Add Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the peaches for a crunchy, flavorful layer.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown and crisp.
Cool and Serve
Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack to help it set for easy slicing.
Serve: Slice and enjoy as is, or pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat—perfect for any gathering or cozy afternoon.