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 very cold butter; 1 egg; 2½ cups sliced peaches (fresh or canned); 1½ tablespoons sugar

Published: July 28, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is easy for bakers of all levels.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and crumbly topping creates a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this cake warm, at room temperature, or chilled—perfect for any occasion.
Great for Any Time of Day: This Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake can be enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or breakfast treat.
Impressive Yet Uncomplicated: It looks and tastes great, making it an impressive addition to potlucks or family gatherings without requiring extensive baking skills.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

8-inch cake pan (or springform pan)
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Pastry blender (or fork)
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Cake pan: A good cake pan ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect golden color on your crumb cake.
Mixing bowls: Using different sizes allows you to easily mix ingredients without creating a mess.
Pastry blender: This tool helps create the perfect crumbly texture by easily cutting cold butter into flour.

Ingredients

To make your Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cake

2¼-2½ cups all purpose flour
½ cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 pinch salt
½ cup butter (very cold)
1 egg
2½ cups sliced peaches (peeled, sliced then halved; can substitute canned peaches drained 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 you have a springform pan, that works beautifully too.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

In a medium bowl, mix together the sliced peaches and 1½ tablespoons of sugar. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour (start with 2¼ cups), sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add in the egg and mix just until combined; it should still be crumbly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Add approximately ½ to ⅔ of the crumbly mixture to your prepared cake pan. Gently press down on it to form an even base. Spoon the peach mixture evenly on top of this layer, then sprinkle with the remaining crumb mixture.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30–40 minutes, or until lightly golden on top. Once done, remove from oven and let cool before serving. Enjoy your Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake plain or with vanilla ice cream!

How to Serve Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

This Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Serve with Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the peaches.
Peach Sorbet: A refreshing option that enhances the peach flavor.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

Mixed Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a burst of color and flavor.
Sliced Bananas: Their creaminess balances out the crumb cake’s texture.

Top with Whipped Cream

Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds an indulgent touch.
Flavored Whipped Toppings: Consider vanilla or almond for an extra layer of taste.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

Brewed Coffee: A warm cup of coffee contrasts beautifully with the cake’s sweetness.
Herbal Tea: Chamomile or mint tea offers a soothing balance.

How to Perfect Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

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

Use Fresh Peaches: Fresh fruit provides the best flavor. If using canned peaches, make sure they are well-drained.
Keep Butter Cold: Chilled butter helps create a crumbly texture. Avoid letting it soften before mixing.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake can enhance its flavors and create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy yogurt adds tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and vibrancy on your plate.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce adds richness and indulgence to each slice.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti serves as a delightful contrast in texture, perfect for dipping.
Savory Cheese Platter: Cheeses like goat cheese or brie can create an interesting sweet-savory pairing.
Pistachio Ice Cream: A nutty ice cream enhances the flavor profile while remaining refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.

Using warm butter: Warm or melted butter can lead to a dense cake. Always use very cold butter for that perfect crumb texture.
Not measuring flour correctly: Overpacking flour can ruin the cake’s consistency. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
Skipping the resting time for peaches: Not allowing the peaches to sit with sugar can result in a watery cake. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined for a light and crumbly texture.
Ignoring baking times: Ovens vary, so start checking your cake at 30 minutes. Baking too long can dry it out, while underbaking can lead to a soggy center.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the cake to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat for 20-30 seconds on medium power. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can substitute canned peaches. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to your batter.

How do I customize my Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake?

You can add nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or sprinkle cinnamon into the crumb mixture for added flavor.

What other fruits can I use in this crumb cake?

You could try using plums, cherries, or even berries if you’re looking for variations on this delicious recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! The Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake makes a delightful breakfast option paired with coffee or tea.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Italian Peach Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or breakfast treat, its delightful crumb and fruity flavor will satisfy any sweet craving. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings, making it your own unique creation!

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