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There’s something irresistibly summery about the scent of ripe peaches wafting through the kitchen, especially when that scent accompanies a freshly baked cake. Imagine a layered delight—a Gluten-Free Peach Cake that sings of summer flavors while being both gluten-free and dairy-free. This cake is not just another dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate, featuring fluffy vanilla layers perfectly complemented by a luscious peach filling and a tangy cream cheese frosting.

With every slice, you’ll delight in the balance of sweetness and fluffiness, proving that all dietary needs can be joyful and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself on a warm day, this cake stands out as a refreshing option that’s easy to whip up and sure to impress. Ready to indulge in a slice of summer? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this Gluten-Free Peach Cake special?

Delightful flavors: This cake beautifully marries sweet peaches with fluffy vanilla layers.
Diet-friendly: Perfectly gluten-free and dairy-free, accommodating many diets!
Simplicity: With straightforward steps, it’s approachable for both novice and experienced bakers.
Versatility: Customize with different fruits or jams to suit your palate.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, its refreshing taste will wow your guests.

If you enjoy exploring variations, check out these delicious alternatives for some extra creativity!

Gluten-Free Peach Cake Ingredients

Get ready to create a delightful and refreshing dessert that celebrates summer!

For the Cake

Gluten-Free Flour – Provides the necessary structure; if not gluten-free, regular cake flour works too.
Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps the cake rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
Dairy-Free Butter – Adds moisture and a rich flavor; regular butter can be used if dairy-free isn’t needed.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake beautifully.
Brown Sugar – Infuses depth of flavor and moisture to the cake.
Oil (Canola/Vegetable) – Keeps the texture moist; any non-flavored oil can also be used.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients for a fluffy texture; for vegan options, consider flax eggs or applesauce.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses delightful flavor; pure vanilla is best, but artificial works if necessary.
Unsweetened Almond Milk – Adds moisture to the batter, with any dairy-free milk being a suitable substitute.

For the Peach Filling

Peaches – The star ingredient for a tasty filling; if fresh peaches aren’t available, canned or frozen work as well.

For the Frosting

Dairy-Free Cream Cheese – This provides a creamy, tangy taste for your frosting; use regular cream cheese if dairy is acceptable.
Icing Sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the frosting.

This Gluten-Free Peach Cake not only stands out with its impressive flavors but also ensures everyone can enjoy a slice!

How to Make Gluten-Free Peach Cake

Prepare Baking Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease three 8-inch round cake pans with baking spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, and xanthan gum if your blend calls for it. This step ensures an even distribution of leavening.
Cream Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the dairy-free butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the almond milk. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
Bake Cake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
Make Peach Filling: While the cakes cool, cook the sliced peaches in a saucepan over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes until they begin to thicken. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Prepare Frosting: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the dairy-free cream cheese and icing sugar until light and fluffy. Chill the frosting until you’re ready to assemble the cake.
Assemble Cake: Once the cakes are fully cooled, layer them with the peach filling and generous amounts of cream cheese frosting between each layer. If needed, chill between layers to maintain structure.
Decorate: Finish with a crumb coat of frosting, then smooth over with more frosting and top with fresh peach slices. Chill the cake until ready to serve.

Optional: Garnish with edible gold leaf for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Gluten-Free Peach Cake (Dairy-Free) layers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply cool them completely, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The peach filling can also be made up to 24 hours ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to assemble, whip up the frosting and layer it with the cake and cooled peach filling. This prep strategy ensures that your cake is just as delicious and beautifully fresh, making it an effortless dessert to impress your guests!

Gluten-Free Peach Cake Variations

Get ready to explore delightful twists on this already amazing cake!

Berry Bliss: Try swapping out peaches for fresh raspberries or blueberries for a burst of juicy flavors, creating a fruity medley that’s heavenly.
Coconut Cream: Add a subtle coconut flavor by substituting some dairy-free butter with coconut oil. The essence of tropical paradise will shine through.
Spiced Peach Surprise: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warming spice note that beautifully complements the sweetness of peaches.
Nutty Delight: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that harmonizes wonderfully with the cake’s texture.
Chocolate Swirl: For a decadent treat, swirl in a bit of melted dairy-free chocolate into the batter before baking, resulting in a delightful surprise in every bite.
Fruit Jam Layers: If peaches aren’t at their peak, use your favorite fruit jam for the filling. Strawberry or apricot jams can provide a sweet and tangy twist.
Lemon Zing: Add a splash of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens up the flavors and makes the cake even more enjoyable.
Vegan Twist: Replace eggs with flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce to create a completely vegan version that still retains its fluffy texture and delightful flavor.

What to Serve with Gluten-Free Peach Cake?

Savor the sweet memories of summer with delightful pairings to complement your cake experience.

Light Whipped Coconut Cream: This airy topping enhances the cake’s peachy sweetness with its subtle coconut flavor, inviting you to indulge.
Fresh Berry Salad: A refreshing medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of vibrant flavors and textures that balance the richness of the cake.
Herbal Iced Tea: A soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, creates a serene sipping experience alongside the cake—perfect for tea-time gatherings.
Vanilla Almond Milkshake: This creamy, dreamy shake brings a nostalgic touch, harmonizing with the cake’s fluffy texture while adding an extra layer of delight.
Crispy Almond Biscotti: These crunchy treats offer a delightful contrast in texture, making for a fun dipping experience with every slice.
Peach Sorbet: A scoop of peach sorbet or other fruity flavors amplifies the cake’s summery vibes, presenting a cool, sweet finish on a warm day.

Elevate your dessert experience; each pairing enhances the sweet, fluffy essence of your gluten-free peach cake!

How to Store and Freeze Gluten-Free Peach Cake

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 7 days. This keeps the cake moist while preserving the peach filling and frosting’s flavors.
Freezer: If you have leftovers, individually wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Gluten-Free Peach Cake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving, allowing the flavors to return to their delightful best.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, microwave for 10-15 seconds, ensuring the frosting doesn’t melt too much. Enjoy your summer treat!

Expert Tips for Gluten-Free Peach Cake

Cool Down: Always allow cake layers and peach filling to cool completely before assembling to avoid collapsing and ensuring smooth layering.
Level Up: Use a cake leveler or a knife to trim the tops of the cakes if they have domed. This ensures stability when stacking your gluten-free peach cake.
Chill Frosting: For easier spreading and to maintain shape, chill your dairy-free cream cheese frosting before using it on the cake, especially in warmer weather.
Check Flour: If using gluten-free flour, make sure it’s a blend that already contains xanthan gum, or add it separately to ensure proper texture.
Fruit Alternatives: If fresh peaches aren’t available, don’t hesitate to swap them with canned or frozen peaches for your filling; just be sure to adjust cooking time as needed.
Testing Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, always test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean from the center of your cake.

Gluten-Free Peach Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of peaches should I use for this Gluten-Free Peach Cake?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe peaches are ideal for this recipe, providing the best flavor and texture. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and free of dark spots. If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use canned or frozen peaches—just make sure to drain or thaw and drain excess liquid.

How should I store the Gluten-Free Peach Cake?
I recommend storing your cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Keep the cake covered to maintain its moisture and prevent it from absorbing other odors in your fridge.

Can I freeze the Gluten-Free Peach Cake, and how?
Of course! To freeze, individually wrap slices of the cake in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to regain its wonderful flavors before serving.

What should I do if my Gluten-Free Peach Cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking or not having enough liquid. Next time, check for doneness a few minutes early and try adding a touch more almond milk to the batter. For your current cake, consider serving it with a drizzle of peach syrup, coconut cream, or alongside dairy-free whipped cream to enhance moisture and flavor.

Are there any allergens I should be aware of when making this Gluten-Free Peach Cake?
Yes! This cake is made to be gluten-free and dairy-free, but you should also consider any specific allergies your guests may have. For instance, if someone has nut allergies, you can substitute the almond milk for another non-dairy milk like oat or soy. Just ensure that all ingredients you use are certified gluten-free in case of cross-contamination.

Can I make this Gluten-Free Peach Cake vegan?
Very! To make this cake vegan, simply replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) or choose unsweetened applesauce as an alternative (1/4 cup per egg). This keeps the fluffy texture while adhering to a vegan diet!