If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with fresh fruit flavors but also has that soft, comforting cake texture, then you’re in for a treat with this Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe. I absolutely love how this classic combo of peaches and raspberries gets a delicious upgrade with a moist, spongy mini cake base — it’s like the best of both worlds in every bite! Keep reading, and I’ll share all my tips so you can nail this fan-freaking-tastic dessert at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of flavors: The juicy peaches and tart raspberries complement the sweet, tender cake beautifully.
  • Easy to make: You won’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients to impress your guests.
  • Great for any occasion: From casual family dinners to special celebrations, these mini cakes always shine.
  • Customizable and fun: You can tweak the toppings or add your own spin to make it your signature dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe really comes from how the ingredients work together to create that soft cake base and vibrant fruit topping. When shopping, look for ripe peaches — they’re the real star here — and fresh or frozen raspberries that pack a punch of tartness.

  • Granulated sugar: You’ll use it in the batter and to sweeten the fruit sauces, so choose a fine sugar that dissolves easily.
  • Egg + egg white: The egg gives structure while the extra white lightens the cake texture.
  • Vegetable oil: Keeps the mini cakes moist and tender without adding any strong flavor.
  • Vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s flavor and pairs perfectly with the peaches and raspberries.
  • Sour cream: I learned this trick to add richness and a slight tang, which balances the sweetness wonderfully.
  • All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake — make sure it’s fresh for best rise and texture.
  • Baking powder and baking soda: Together, these raise the cake beautifully and add lightness.
  • Salt: Just a dash to bring out all the flavors.
  • Peaches: Use medium-sized ripe peaches for that juicy sweetness. You can peel or leave the skin on depending on your texture preference.
  • Cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy note to the peaches when cooked.
  • Water: Helps cook down the fruit into a syrupy consistency.
  • Fresh or frozen raspberries: Tart and vibrant, they balance the sweet peaches and cake.
  • Vanilla ice cream: Optional but highly recommended as a topping that melts into the cakes for pure indulgence.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I like to mix things up depending on the season or what’s in my pantry. This Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe is versatile, so don’t be shy about personalizing it with your favorite flavors or dietary needs!

  • Gluten-free option: I swapped all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend once and was pleasantly surprised that the cakes stayed moist and fluffy.
  • Berry swap: Tried it with blackberries instead of raspberries and it offered a deeper, earthier tang — just as good!
  • Vegan adaptation: Use applesauce instead of egg and plant-based yogurt for the sour cream; I tested this for a friend and it worked well with a slightly denser texture.

How to Make Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Fruit Toppings

First, peel and slice your peaches — I find that peeling them gives a nicer, smoother texture, but keeping the skin on adds a bit of rustic charm if you prefer. Toss the peach slices with sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of water in a pan over medium heat. Cook gently until they soften into a syrupy sauce, about 10 minutes. At the same time, simmer raspberries with sugar and a bit of water until soft and saucy – this usually takes around 5 minutes. Keep these warm or set aside to cool while you make the cakes.

Step 2: Make the Mini Cake Batter

This part is straightforward but important for a tender crumb. Start by beating the sugar with the whole egg and additional egg white until fluffy and pale — this adds air to the batter. Then, slowly mix in the vegetable oil and vanilla. Next, add the sour cream for richness. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Overmixing can make the cakes tough, so be gentle here!

Step 3: Bake the Mini Cakes

Divide the batter evenly into greased or lined muffin tins — this recipe makes about 6 mini cakes. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. I use a light hand when inserting the toothpick to avoid deflating the cakes. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack; this keeps the bottoms from getting soggy.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Here’s the fun part! Spoon warmed peaches on top of each mini cake, then drizzle with raspberry sauce. If you want to step it up, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream. Trust me, the melty cold ice cream mingling with warm fruit and cake is what family memories are made of.

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Pro Tips for Making Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe

  • Use ripe, but firm peaches: Too soft and they’ll turn mushy in the sauce; firm peaches hold up better.
  • Don’t overmix the batter: Folding gently prevents dense cakes and keeps them spongy and light.
  • Warm fruit sauces: Serving the peach and raspberry toppings warm really lifts the flavor and pairs perfectly with cool ice cream.
  • Let cakes cool slightly before topping: This avoids melting the ice cream too fast and keeps your presentation picture-perfect.

How to Serve Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe

A single golden cupcake sits in the middle of a round white plate with an intricate edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The cupcake is topped with a layer of peach slices arranged around its top edge. Above the peaches, a scoop of white vanilla ice cream is placed, with a bright red raspberry sauce drizzled over the top, slightly dripping down the sides. A whole raspberry rests next to the cupcake on the plate. In the background, there are blurred pink flowers and a bowl with raspberries. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I genuinely love garnishing these mini cakes with a sprig of fresh mint or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Sometimes I add slivered almonds for a little crunch — it’s a simple touch that makes a difference in texture and look. And of course, the melting vanilla ice cream on top is my favorite “garnish.”

Side Dishes

Since this is a dessert, I usually serve it alongside a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of Moscato. It also pairs beautifully with light, fresh salads or sorbets if you’re turning your meal into a fancy multi-course affair.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I’ve served these mini cakes on individual dessert plates with a drizzle of raspberry coulis artistically swirled around the edges. Another fun idea is building mini dessert towers by stacking cakes with alternating layers of peaches, raspberries, and whipped cream. Everyone always asks for the recipe when I do this!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I’ve kept leftover mini cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cakes stay moist, though they absorb some fruit juices, which I actually enjoy as it intensifies the flavor. Just add the ice cream right before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked mini cakes (without toppings) for up to a month. I wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When ready, let them thaw at room temperature and warm slightly for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the mini cakes in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm but not hot. Then add the fruit toppings and ice cream, and enjoy just like freshly made.

FAQs

  1. Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh for the Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe?

    You can, but fresh peaches provide a brighter, more natural flavor and better texture. If using canned, opt for those packed in juice (not syrup) and drain them well before cooking to avoid extra sweetness and sogginess.

  2. Can I make the Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe dairy-free?

    Absolutely! Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream, and use a plant-based vanilla ice cream for topping. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

  3. How do I know when the mini cakes are fully baked?

    Insert a toothpick into the center of a cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist and tender.

  4. Can I prepare the fruit toppings ahead of time?

    Yes, you can make the peach and raspberry sauces a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Warm them gently before serving for best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe holds a special place on my dessert table because it brings out the best in simple, fresh ingredients while still feeling a little indulgent. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a fancy weekend gathering, these mini cakes never fail to impress with their bright fruit flavors and tender crumb. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try — I’m confident it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen just like it did in mine!

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Peach Melba Mini Cakes Recipe

4.7 from 54 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Peach Melba Mini Cakes combine the luscious flavors of ripe peaches and fresh raspberries with a moist, spongy cake base. This dessert features tender mini cakes topped with warm peach compote, raspberry sauce, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, offering a delightful twist on the classic Peach Melba.


Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg + 1 egg white
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Peach Compote

  • 3-4 medium-sized ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 tsp water

Raspberry Sauce

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp water

Topping

  • Vanilla ice cream to top each cake


Instructions

  1. Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, egg, and egg white until light and fluffy. Gradually add vegetable oil and vanilla extract, stirring to combine. Mix in sour cream until the batter is smooth.
  2. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
  3. Bake the cakes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line mini cake pans or muffin tins. Spoon the batter evenly into the pans. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool.
  4. Make the peach compote: In a saucepan, combine sliced peaches, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, cinnamon, and 2 teaspoons water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until peaches soften and the mixture becomes syrupy. Set aside and keep warm.
  5. Prepare raspberry sauce: In another saucepan, combine raspberries, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon water. Cook over medium heat until raspberries break down and the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Strain the sauce to remove seeds for a smooth texture, if desired.
  6. Assemble the mini cakes: Place a mini cake on each serving plate. Spoon warm peach compote over the top, followed by a drizzle of raspberry sauce. Finish each cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  7. Serve immediately: Serve the Peach Melba Mini Cakes immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm fruit and cake with cold ice cream.

Notes

  • This classic peach and raspberry dessert gets a delicious upgrade by adding a moist, spongy cake to it.
  • Peaches should be ripe and juicy for best flavor – if they are not in season, frozen peaches can be used.
  • The raspberry sauce can be strained for a seedless topping or served as is for a more rustic texture.
  • Mini cakes can be prepared in advance and warmed before serving with the fresh fruit sauces and ice cream.
  • This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or a light dessert wine.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 mini cake with toppings
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg

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