This Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is not only a delightful dessert but also a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. The combination of bourbon caramel and sweet peaches creates a rich flavor experience that will impress your guests. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in, this cake offers both comfort and sophistication. Its moist texture and beautiful presentation make it stand out on any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The fusion of bourbon caramel and fresh peaches delivers a taste that’s truly unique and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this cake without fuss.
- Versatile Dessert: Whether served warm with ice cream or at room temperature, it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is bound to impress friends and family alike, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.
- Stunning Presentation: The upside-down style showcases beautifully caramelized peaches, adding a touch of elegance.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch cake pan: Essential for the right shape and size of the cake, ensuring even baking.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating butter and eggs, helping achieve a light and fluffy batter.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 4-5 peaches, cored and cut into wedges. Leave the skin on.
- 1 stick butter (8 tablespoons)
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 3 tbsp bourbon
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla
- 1 tsp baking powder

How to Make Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pan
Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper. Butter the paper to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Arrange the Peaches
Place the peach wedges over the parchment in a circular pattern, starting from the center. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon over the arranged peaches.
Step 4: Make the Caramel
To create the caramel:
1. In a saucepan, combine 1/4 cup water with 1/2 cup sugar.
2. Stir gently to mix.
3. Heat over medium-high until it turns light brown (about 10–15 minutes), without stirring during heating.
4. Remove from heat and quickly add 1 tablespoon bourbon, pouring it evenly over the peaches.
Step 5: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together butter and 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Incorporate vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons bourbon into the mixture.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon.
2. Gradually beat this dry mix into your wet batter until just combined.
Step 7: Pour Batter Over Peaches
Carefully pour your batter over the arranged peaches in the pan, smoothing out the surface.
Step 8: Bake
Place in preheated oven and bake for about 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Allow your Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake to cool in the pan for about 15–30 minutes before turning it out onto a serving plate. Enjoy!
How to Serve Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
This Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can present and enjoy it. Whether for a special occasion or a casual dessert at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Fresh whipped cream adds a light and creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the peaches and the richness of the bourbon caramel.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- For extra sweetness, drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the top before serving. This enhances the bourbon flavor and adds a beautiful presentation.
Garnish with Mint Leaves
- Fresh mint leaves not only look appealing but also add a refreshing herbal note that balances the cake’s richness.
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea
- A slice of this cake pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for an afternoon treat or after dinner.
Serve at Room Temperature
- Serving this cake at room temperature allows all the flavors to shine, creating a better tasting experience compared to serving it cold.
How to Perfect Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Perfecting your Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake can take your baking from good to great. Here are some helpful tips:
- Use Ripe Peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum sweetness and flavor in your cake.
- Don’t Rush Caramelizing: Take your time when making the caramel; rushing can lead to burnt sugar which affects the overall taste.
- Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated. An accurate temperature ensures even baking and prevents undercooked cake.
- Let It Cool Properly: Allowing the cake to cool before flipping it helps maintain its shape and keeps the peach topping intact.
- Experiment with Flours: Try substituting part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition without sacrificing texture.
- Add Nuts for Crunch: Consider folding in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent choices:
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt provides creaminess and tang, balancing out the sweetness of the cake.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers freshness that complements the rich flavors of the cake.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses can bring savory notes to contrast with the sweet cake, creating a balanced dessert spread.
- Chocolate Fondue: For chocolate lovers, serving chocolate fondue alongside can create a fun dipping experience.
- Roasted Nuts: Roasted almonds or pecans provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with peaches.
- Sparkling Wine: A glass of sparkling wine elevates any dessert experience and pairs nicely with sweet dishes like this cake.
- Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai complement the cinnamon in your cake, making it a cozy pairing option.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add another layer of sweetness while bringing tropical vibes to your dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Not using ripe peaches: Always choose ripe, sweet peaches for the best flavor. Overripe or underripe peaches can ruin the taste of your cake.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Using parchment paper is essential for easy removal. Without it, you risk having your cake stick to the pan and lose its beautiful topping.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Beat just until ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different; always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time. An overbaked cake can become dry.
- Using a springform pan: A regular cake pan is recommended for this recipe. Springform pans may leak caramel, making a mess in your oven.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave’s power.
- Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake so special?
This cake combines the rich flavors of bourbon caramel and fresh peaches, creating a unique dessert that’s both indulgent and comforting.
Can I use other fruits instead of peaches?
Absolutely! While peaches are fantastic, you can substitute with pineapples, apples, or even berries to create delightful variations of this upside-down cake.
Is it possible to make Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake without alcohol?
Yes! You can replace bourbon with apple juice or vanilla extract for flavor without the alcohol content.
How long does it take to make Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake?
The total time for this delicious cake is about one hour, including preparation and baking time.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the cake up to two days in advance and store it properly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is an incredible blend of flavors that will impress your friends and family. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different fruits or enhance it with spices. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any gathering!

Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake
Bourbon Peach Upside-Down Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the rich flavors of caramelized bourbon and sweet, juicy peaches. This delightful cake is perfect for summer gatherings, family celebrations, or just a cozy night at home. Its moist texture and stunning upside-down presentation not only make it a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside fresh whipped cream for an indulgent experience that will leave your guests raving. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Ingredients
- 4–5 ripe peaches
- 1 stick (8 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 3 tbsp bourbon
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
- Arrange peach wedges in the pan and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- For the caramel, combine water and sugar in a saucepan; heat until light brown. Add bourbon, then pour over peaches.
- In a bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Combine dry ingredients in another bowl; gradually mix into the wet batter until just combined.
- Pour batter over peaches and bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool for 15–30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (92g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Use ripe peaches for optimal sweetness. Ensure proper oven temperature by checking calibration. Experiment with different fruits like pineapples or apples for variations.