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There’s something irresistible about a perfectly baked upside-down cake — the moment it flips and reveals a golden, caramelized layer of fruit is pure magic. This Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake is a stunning dessert that blends sweet, juicy peaches with the warm richness of bourbon and a soft, moist crumb. The peaches caramelize beautifully in the oven, creating a glossy topping that’s both visually stunning and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The combination of almond flour with all-purpose flour gives the cake a delicate texture, while cinnamon and vanilla bring out the natural sweetness of the fruit. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just craving a cozy treat, this cake will earn a spot in your go-to dessert collection.

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted something more elevated than a traditional peach cake — something with depth, aroma, and a hint of grown-up indulgence. The bourbon was the perfect choice. It adds complexity without overpowering the delicate peach flavor. If you love warm and comforting desserts with a bit of flair, this one’s for you.

For another unique twist on classic comfort food, try my Italian Sausage Zucchini Boats for a savory dinner that pairs beautifully with this cake as dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake

A stunning presentation – No frosting or fancy decorations needed. Just flip it over and let the peaches do the talking.
Boozy flavor profile – The bourbon infuses the cake with a warm, rich undertone that pairs beautifully with peaches.
Soft, tender crumb – Thanks to the mix of almond flour and all-purpose flour, the texture is light yet satisfying.
Perfect for summer gatherings – Whether it’s a barbecue, picnic, or brunch, this cake will wow your guests.
Versatile – Swap peaches for nectarines or plums when they’re in season.

Ingredients for Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake

4–5 peaches, cored and cut into wedges (leave the skin on)
1 stick butter (8 tablespoons)
1 ¼ cup sugar
3 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup almond flour
3 tablespoons bourbon
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray. Arrange the peach wedges in a circular pattern at the bottom of the pan. You can overlap them slightly for a more dramatic effect.

Step 2: Create the Caramel Base

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter with ½ cup of sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a light golden color. Pour this caramel evenly over the peaches in the cake pan.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the remaining butter (4 tablespoons) and the remaining ¾ cup sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the bourbon, vanilla, and cinnamon until well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter over the peaches and caramel in the cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: The Big Flip

Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before running a knife around the edges to loosen it. Place a serving plate on top of the cake pan and carefully flip it over. Lift off the pan to reveal the glossy, caramelized peaches.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Choose ripe but firm peaches – Overripe peaches may release too much juice, which can make the caramel watery.
Don’t skip the almond flour – It adds a nutty flavor and tender texture.
Bourbon substitution – If you prefer an alcohol-free version, use peach nectar or apple juice for a similar depth of flavor.
Serve warm – This cake is best enjoyed slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Variations

Peach & Pecan – Sprinkle chopped pecans over the caramel before adding the peaches.
Spiced Autumn Version – Add nutmeg and cloves for a cozier flavor in cooler months.
Berry Twist – Replace half the peaches with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a tangy contrast.

Perfect Pairings

Pair this Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for the ultimate indulgence. For a lighter option, enjoy it with a cup of tea or a chilled glass of white wine. And if you’re looking for another fresh and vibrant dish to serve before dessert, my Cauliflower Feta Baked Salad makes a refreshing starter.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days — simply bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving. Avoid freezing, as the peaches may lose their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the caramel layer.

What type of bourbon works best?
A smooth, medium-bodied bourbon with vanilla and caramel notes enhances the flavor without overpowering the peaches.

Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake it the night before and store it covered at room temperature. Just reheat slightly before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 10 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280
Carbohydrates	36g
Protein	4g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	140mg
Fiber	2g
Sugar	25g

Final Thoughts

This Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake is the perfect blend of elegance and comfort. The peaches develop a deep caramelized flavor while the cake remains soft and buttery. The hint of bourbon elevates it into a truly memorable dessert that’s ideal for summer gatherings, holidays, or just when you want to treat yourself. Serve it warm, pair it with your favorite drink, and watch it disappear slice by slice.

A beautifully caramelized Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake, fresh from the oven

Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake – A Decadent Summer Dessert with a Boozy Twist

This Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake is a warm, decadent dessert that combines caramelized peaches with a moist, buttery cake infused with bourbon. Perfect for summer gatherings, special occasions, or just when you’re craving something irresistibly sweet with a hint of Southern charm.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1 5

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, Southern

Servings 8

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

4 –5 peaches cored and cut into wedges (skin on)
1 stick butter 8 tablespoons, divided
1 ¼ cups sugar divided
3 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup almond flour
3 tablespoons bourbon
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

Prepare the caramelized peaches:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add ½ cup sugar, stirring until it begins to melt and form a caramel-like mixture. Arrange peach wedges in a circular pattern over the sugar mixture.
Make the cake batter:
In a large bowl, cream the remaining 4 tablespoons butter with the remaining ¾ cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla and bourbon.
Mix dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
Combine and mix:
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Assemble and bake:
Pour batter evenly over the peaches in the pan. Spread gently with a spatula to cover all fruit. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and flip:
Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes, then run a knife around the edges. Place a plate over the pan and invert carefully to release the cake. Serve warm.