Preparation:

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter, ensuring the cake won’t stick during baking.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix as per the instructions on the package. This will usually involve combining the cake mix with 1 cup of water, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs. Mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 3:

Gently fold in 2 cups of diced fresh peaches and 1/2 cup of peach preserves into the cake batter. The peaches will add bursts of flavor and moisture to the cake, while the preserves intensify the peachy sweetness.

Step 4:

Pour the prepared batter into your greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden on top and slightly springy to the touch.

Step 5:

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. While it is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart. These holes will soak up the sweetened condensed milk and infuse moisture into the cake.

Step 6:

Pour the can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the surface of the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. This step transforms a standard cake into a moist, decadent treat. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the milk to fully absorb.

Step 7:

While the cake is chilling, prepare the creamy topping. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the heavy whipping cream and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. The result should be light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet.

Step 8:

Once the cake has cooled and the condensed milk has soaked in, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the cake. The creamy layer will add a velvety texture and balance the sweetness of the cake.

Step 9:

To finish, drizzle 1/4 cup of peach preserves over the cream cheese layer, and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of diced peaches as a garnish. This not only enhances the peach flavor but also gives the cake a beautiful, summery look.

Step 10:

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 more hours (or overnight, if possible) to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.