If you’re looking for a delightful and easy-to-make cake that will impress your family and friends, this Italian peach cake is the answer. Known for its light, fluffy texture and the perfect blend of lemon and peach flavors, this cake is a favorite in Italy and is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With a creamy filling and a crunchy almond topping, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weekend treat or a special celebration. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and discover why it’s so beloved in Italy.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 egg
- 100 g sugar
- 8 g vanilla sugar
- Lemon zest
- 140 g butter, melted
- 300 g 00 flour
- 10 g baking powder
For the Cream:
- 400 ml milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 8 g vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons corn starch
- 3 tablespoons sour cream or mascarpone
- 30 ml lemon juice
For the Topping:
- 800 g peaches in syrup, drained and sliced
- Egg white
- Sliced almonds
- Icing sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat 1 egg with 100 g of sugar and 8 g of vanilla sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Lemon Zest: Add the lemon zest and mix well.
- Add Butter: Melt the butter (140 g) and add it to the mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the 00 flour (300 g) and baking powder (10 g) to the mixture, mixing until well combined.
Prepare the Mold:
- Grease the Mold: Grease a 25 cm cake mold.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
Prepare the Cream:
- Heat Milk: In a saucepan, heat 400 ml of milk until warm.
- Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks, 5 tablespoons of sugar, 8 g of vanilla sugar, and 3 tablespoons of corn starch until smooth.
- Combine Milk and Egg Mixture: Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
- Cook the Cream: Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens.
- Add Sour Cream and Lemon Juice: Remove from heat and stir in 3 tablespoons of sour cream or mascarpone and 30 ml of lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Cake:
- First Layer of Batter: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared mold and spread it evenly.
- Add Peaches: Arrange the peach slices on top of the batter.
- Add Cream: Pour the prepared cream over the peaches.
- Second Layer of Batter: Cover with the remaining cake batter.
Topping:
- Brush with Egg White: Brush the top of the cake with egg white and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Bake:
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Finishing Touch:
- Cool and Dust: Let the cake cool slightly, then dust with icing sugar before serving.
Serve:
- Enjoy: Enjoy your delicious Italian peach cake!
Conclusion
This Italian peach cake is a delightful combination of light, fluffy cake, creamy filling, and juicy peaches. The added crunch from the almond topping and the refreshing hint of lemon make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s easy to see why this cake is a favorite in Italy and why you’ll want to make it every week. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it also brings a touch of Italian charm to your table. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this mouthwatering cake that will surely become a beloved recipe in your home. Buon appetito!