1. Prepare the Cake:
- Mix the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions, adding the vanilla extract if using. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan.
2. Prepare the Peach Cobbler Filling:
- Cook the Peaches:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced peaches, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the peaches are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Poke and Fill the Cake:
- Poke Holes in the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a large straw to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
- Fill with Sweetened Condensed Milk:
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- Add the Peach Preserves:
- Spread the peach preserves or peach jam evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to fill the holes along with the sweetened condensed milk.
- Top with Peach Cobbler Filling:
- Spoon the peach cobbler filling over the top of the cake, spreading it evenly. The juicy peaches and syrupy filling will seep into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.
4. Prepare the Whipped Topping:
- Whip the Cream:
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the Whipped Topping:
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Add Fresh Peaches:
- Garnish the cake with fresh peach slices arranged on top. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon over the top.
- Chill Before Serving:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to firm up.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve and Savor:
- Slice and serve the Summer Peach Cobbler Poke Cake chilled. Enjoy the combination of moist cake, sweet peach cobbler filling, and creamy whipped topping.
Conclusion
This Summer Peach Cobbler Poke Cake is the ultimate summer dessert, combining the best elements of a poke cake and a classic peach cobbler. The sweet and juicy peaches pair perfectly with the rich, moist cake, while the whipped topping adds a light and airy finish. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or any summer gathering, this cake will be the star of the show. Enjoy a slice of summer with every bite!