Baltimore peach cake is a cherished summer treat in the Mid-Atlantic region, particularly in Baltimore, where this sweet, yeasty cake topped with fresh, juicy peaches is a staple at local bakeries. The cake¡¯s origins trace back to the city¡¯s German-American community, blending rich dough with the season¡¯s ripest peaches to create a dessert that¡¯s both comforting and vibrant. The result is a tender, slightly sweet cake with a soft crumb, complemented by the natural sweetness and slight tartness of the peaches. It¡¯s best enjoyed slightly warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
INGREDIENTS:
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? 1 cup whole milk, warmed
? 2 ? teaspoons active dry yeast
? ? cup granulated sugar
? 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
? 1 large egg, room temperature
? 3 ? cups all-purpose flour
? ? teaspoon salt
? 6-8 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
? ? cup light brown sugar
? 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
? 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
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INSTRUCTIONS:
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1. Prepare the Dough:
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? In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the yeast becomes foamy.
? In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, and egg. Mix well until combined. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
? Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and
elastic.
? Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1 ? hours, or until doubled in size.
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2. Prepare the Peaches:
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? While the dough is rising, slice the peaches and set them aside. In a small bowl, mix the light brown sugar and cinnamon together.
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3. Assemble the Cake:
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? Preheat your oven to 375¡ãF (190¡ãC). Grease a 9¡Á13-inch baking pan or a large round cake pan.
? Punch down the risen dough and press it into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
? Arrange the peach slices over the dough in a single layer. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the peaches.
? Let the assembled cake sit for about 20 minutes to allow the dough to rise slightly.
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4. Bake the Cake:
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? Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the peaches are tender.
? Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and brush the melted butter over the top for a glossy finish.
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5. Serve:
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? Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, plain or with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
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