Southern Peach Crumb Cake: A Taste of Sweet Southern Comfort
There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a Southern Peach Crumb Cake — that perfect blend of tender cake, juicy peaches, and buttery, cinnamon-kissed crumble. Every bite brings the warmth of Southern hospitality to your table, whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Made with fresh or canned peaches, this cake is easy to prepare and captures the essence of summer in every forkful. Moist, flavorful, and crowned with a golden crumb topping, it’s a comforting classic that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Peach Crumb Cake
This cake isn’t just delicious — it’s a true Southern staple, made for sharing with family and friends. The tender, buttery base perfectly complements the sweetness of ripe peaches, while the crumble topping adds that satisfying crunch.
It’s simple to make, requires no special equipment, and stays moist for days. The aroma of peaches, cinnamon, and brown sugar baking together is enough to make your kitchen feel like home.
Ingredients for Southern Peach Crumb Cake
Gather these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a cake that’s bursting with peachy perfection:
For the Cake Base:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter, softened | ½ cup (1 stick) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Pure vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt | 1 cup |
| Fresh or canned peaches, peeled and sliced | 2 cups |
For the Crumb Topping:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter, melted | ½ cup |
Optional Glaze:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | ½ cup |
| Milk or cream | 1–2 tablespoons |
| Vanilla extract | ¼ teaspoon |
How to Make Southern Peach Crumb Cake
Follow these easy steps to create a soft, flavorful crumb cake that melts in your mouth.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two parts, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined — don’t overbeat.
Gently fold in the sliced peaches, being careful not to mash them.
Step 3: Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until large, coarse crumbs form.
Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the cake batter.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15–20 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Optional Glaze
If desired, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a simple glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for extra sweetness and shine.
Flavor Profile: Sweet, Buttery, and Perfectly Peachy
This Southern Peach Crumb Cake is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The moist, buttery base pairs beautifully with the juicy, fragrant peaches, while the crunchy crumb topping adds a delightful contrast. The subtle hints of cinnamon and brown sugar bring warmth and depth, making every bite irresistibly rich and satisfying.
It’s a cake that’s as comforting as it is elegant — ideal for lazy Sunday mornings, potlucks, or afternoon tea.
Tips for the Perfect Crumb Cake
- Use ripe peaches: If fresh peaches are in season, choose ripe but firm ones. If using canned, drain them well to prevent excess moisture.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined for a tender crumb.
- Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts make a great addition to the crumble for extra crunch.
- Serve warm: A quick reheat in the oven or microwave enhances the flavors and aroma.
- Pair it right: Enjoy with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a hot cup of coffee.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Instructions
To Make Ahead:
Prepare the cake the night before and bake in the morning for fresh, warm perfection. You can also bake it fully, cover tightly, and store overnight at room temperature.
To Store:
Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To Freeze:
Wrap the cooled cake (whole or sliced) tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is incredibly versatile and can be served in many delicious ways:
- Breakfast: Enjoy with a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
- Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Brunch centerpiece: Pair with fresh berries, eggs, and bacon for a complete Southern spread.
Variations You’ll Love
- Peach & Blueberry Crumb Cake: Add a handful of fresh blueberries to the peach layer for a burst of tartness.
- Peach Almond Cake: Substitute almond extract for vanilla and sprinkle with sliced almonds before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for an equally delicious result.
- Spiced Peach Cake: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the crumble for extra warmth.
Why This Recipe Works
This Southern Peach Crumb Cake delivers the perfect balance of moist cake, juicy fruit, and crunchy topping — a trio that defines comfort baking. The sour cream keeps it tender and rich, while the crumb topping ensures every bite has texture and sweetness.
It’s foolproof, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly adaptable — proof that simple ingredients, when combined with Southern flair, create magic.
Final Thoughts
If you love desserts that taste like home, this Southern Peach Crumb Cake is a must-try. It’s the kind of recipe that feels nostalgic — one that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy.
Perfect for any occasion, this cake celebrates the beauty of Southern baking — generous, comforting, and made to share. Whether served warm from the oven or enjoyed the next day, it’s a slice of pure bliss that never disappoints.