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Tender Brown Butter Fresh Peach Upside Down Skillet Cake

brown butter fresh peach skillet cake - featured image

A tender, nutty brown butter cake topped with caramelized fresh peaches, made in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, flavorful dessert perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 medium ripe fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided: 1/2 cup for caramelizing peaches, 1/4 cup in batter)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup whole milk or buttermilk (or dairy-free milk alternative)

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter: In your skillet over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir constantly as it foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat immediately once browned bits form.
  2. Caramelize the peaches: Sprinkle 1/2 cup granulated sugar evenly over the browned butter in the skillet. Arrange peach slices in a single layer on top. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes without stirring to caramelize.
  3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  5. Prepare batter: In a separate bowl, whisk 1/4 cup sugar and 1 large egg until light and fluffy. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Slowly add the browned butter (cooled slightly) and 1/4 cup milk, mixing gently.
  6. Combine: Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  7. Pour batter over caramelized peaches in skillet, spreading evenly with a spatula.
  8. Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until top is golden and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
  9. Cool skillet on wire rack for 10 minutes. Run a knife around edges to loosen cake, then carefully invert onto serving plate.
  10. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

Watch the butter carefully when browning to avoid burning. Use fresh peaches for best caramelization and texture. If peaches are very ripe and soft, reduce caramelizing time to prevent mushiness. For gluten-free, substitute flour with 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Vegan version can be made using browned coconut oil, flax egg, and plant-based milk. Use a heavy oven-safe nonstick skillet if cast iron is unavailable, lining with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter cake, peach upside down cake, skillet cake, summer dessert, caramelized peaches, easy dessert, one pan cake