If you’re longing for a sweet treat that bursts with summertime vibes, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful loaf cake that perfectly balances the juicy brightness of fresh strawberries and peaches with a tender, moist crumb. Every bite feels like a sunny day in dessert form, showcasing vibrant colors and fresh fruit flavors that refresh the palate. This cake is wonderfully simple to make but endlessly impressive, making it a perfect option whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just a little personal indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe relies on straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a vital role, from the tender crumb flour provides to the creamy moisture of sour cream that keeps the cake perfectly soft, and the fresh strawberries and peaches that bring a natural, juicy sweetness and lovely color.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, light cake crumb.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise evenly and become fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the sour cream for a perfect lift.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a silky texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overwhelming the fruit’s natural flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the batter and give structure.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Keeps the loaf moist and tender.
- 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries: Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and gorgeous flecks of pink.
- 1/2 cup diced fresh peaches: Brings a natural floral sweetness and a soft texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For the delicate, fruity glaze on top.
- 1 tbsp fresh peach juice (or orange juice): Adds bright, citrusy flavor to the glaze.
- 1 tbsp fresh strawberry juice (or lemon juice): Balances the glaze with a fresh, tangy note.
How to Make Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to grease and flour your 9×5-inch loaf pan well, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step ensures your cake won’t stick and will bake evenly with a nice golden crust.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination is essential to give your cake the perfect rise and texture, so take a moment to get these well combined before moving on.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This aeration is what makes your cake tender and moist, so don’t rush this step!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add your eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps the batter emulsify properly for a smooth texture. Then mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the cake with that irresistible warmth and sweet aroma.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream or Greek yogurt. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined – overmixing can make the loaf dense, so a gentle fold is perfect here.
Step 6: Fold in Fresh Fruit
Carefully fold in the diced strawberries and peaches. This not only adds pockets of juicy flavor throughout the loaf but also brings pops of color that make the cake as beautiful as it is tasty.
Step 7: Bake Your Loaf
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top has developed a lovely golden brown hue. This step builds the cake’s structure and sets those delicious fruit pieces in place.
Step 8: Make the Glaze
While the cake bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar with the fresh peach and strawberry juices until smooth. This simple glaze will give your loaf that extra touch of freshness and a pretty, glossy finish that enhances every bite.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze
After baking, let the loaf cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—this keeps the texture just right. Once cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a tempting finish.
Step 10: Slice and Serve!
Finally, slice your loaf and get ready to savor the wonderful blend of strawberries and peaches in every bite. It’s refreshingly sweet and moist, a perfect loaf to brighten any tea time or dessert hour.
How to Serve Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the look and flavor when serving, fresh strawberry slices and thin peach wedges on top work beautifully as garnishes. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few small mint leaves add a fresh and festive touch, making each slice extra inviting.
Side Dishes
This loaf cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for indulgent desserts. For a lighter option, serve alongside fresh berries or a citrusy fruit salad, which helps keep the meal balanced and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging slices of the loaf on a rustic wooden board for a charming picnic-style presentation. Alternatively, cut into small cubes and skewer with fresh fruit for playful dessert kabobs that are perfect for parties or kid-friendly treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover loaf cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture and freshness. Keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent the fresh fruit from spoiling.
Freezing
You can freeze the loaf cake by wrapping it well in plastic and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. The cake holds up beautifully and tastes just as fresh when properly frozen.
Reheating
For a warm slice, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast lightly in a toaster oven. This refreshes the cake’s softness and makes the glaze even more luscious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries and peaches for this loaf cake?
While fresh fruit is best for the ideal texture and color, frozen berries and peaches can work in a pinch. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid too much moisture in the batter, which can affect baking times and texture.
Is it possible to make this loaf cake dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative. Just make sure your substitutes are similar in consistency to keep the cake moist and tender.
How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
If your glaze is too thick, add a few more drops of fruit juice to loosen it. If it’s too thin, incorporate a little more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency for drizzling or spreading.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans to ensure even cooking. Baking time may be slightly less for each pan since the batter depth will be shallower, so keep an eye on it.
What’s the best way to dice the fruit without making the batter watery?
Use fresh, firm strawberries and peaches, dice them just before folding into the batter, and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This helps prevent excess moisture and keeps your loaf from becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Refreshing Strawberry Peach Loaf Cake Recipe. It’s that perfect balance of moist, tender cake and juicy, vibrant fruit that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether you’re baking to impress or simply treat yourself on a sunny afternoon, this loaf cake is sure to become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. Don’t wait to try it—you’ll want to share this joy with everyone around you!
