Newfoundland Peach Fruit Cake is a golden, moist, and lightly spiced cake that beautifully blends the sweetness of peaches with the traditional richness of a fruit cake. Unlike heavier holiday fruitcakes, this version is lighter, fragrant, and a true crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for festive gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a comforting dessert to enjoy any time of year.
This recipe combines pantry staples, canned or fresh peaches, warm spices, and a touch of rum or vanilla to create a cake that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. Baked to a golden perfection, every slice reveals tender fruit pieces nestled in a soft, buttery crumb.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare this cherished Newfoundland classic, plus tips for variations, storage, and serving ideas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Baking – Simple steps with bakery-style results.
- Light & Fruity – Not as heavy as traditional fruitcake.
- Perfectly Moist – Thanks to juicy peaches in the batter.
- Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.
- Customizable – Add nuts, raisins, or coconut for your own twist.
- Great for Gifting – Beautifully sliced and wrapped for holidays.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or rum for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 1/2 cups chopped peaches (fresh or canned, drained well)
- 1/2 cup golden raisins (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan – Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch loaf pan or cake pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cream Butter & Sugar – Beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla (or rum).
- Add Sour Cream – Stir in sour cream until smooth.
- Combine & Fold – Gradually add dry ingredients. Gently fold in peaches, raisins, and nuts.
- Bake – Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. Bake 70–80 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool & Slice – Let cake cool in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to wire rack. Slice once cooled.
How to Serve
- Plating Tips: Slice into thick wedges, dust with powdered sugar, or drizzle with a light glaze.
- Side Pairings: Enjoy with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Leftover Uses: Toast slices lightly and spread with butter or cream cheese.
- Beverage Pairing: Perfect with black tea, spiced chai, or a light dessert wine.
Additional Tips
- Use well-drained peaches to avoid soggy batter.
- Add candied ginger for a spicier kick.
- For extra moistness, brush the cake with peach syrup after baking.
Variations
- Coconut Twist – Stir in 1/2 cup shredded coconut.
- Holiday Spice – Add cloves and allspice.
- Glazed Version – Top with peach glaze made from puree + powdered sugar.
- Mini Loaves – Perfect for gifting.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerate: Store up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly, freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw overnight and warm slightly before serving.
Special Equipment
- 9-inch loaf or cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Wire rack
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned peaches?
Yes! Just drain them well and pat dry before adding.
Can I make this cake without raisins?
Absolutely – it’s delicious even without dried fruit.
Is this cake similar to Christmas fruitcake?
It’s lighter and fresher, but still has a festive feel.
Can I make this ahead for gifting?
Yes, it keeps well and actually tastes better the next day.
Conclusion
Newfoundland Peach Fruit Cake is a charming dessert that combines the warmth of tradition with the freshness of juicy peaches. With its tender crumb, subtle spices, and simple ingredients, this cake is perfect for both holidays and everyday enjoyment. Whether you’re making it for your family or as a thoughtful gift, it’s sure to impress with every slice.
