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1
Make the topping: position oven rack in center of oven; preheat oven to 350u00b0.
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2
Grease the bottom and sides of a 10 x 3 inch round cake pan (do not use a springform pan, or the caramel may leak out during baking); line the bottom of the pan with a round of parchment paper and grease the paper.
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3
In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water; cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
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4
Stop stirring; increase heat to high, and cook, occasionally brushing down the sides of the pan with a wet pastry brush to prevent crystallization, until the mixture turns into a golden caramel.
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5
Remove the pan from the heat and immediately whisk in the butter, one piece at a time (be careful-the mixture will bubble up furiously).
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6
Carefully pour the hot caramel into the bottom of the prepared pan.
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7
Cut the peaches in half and discard the pits; cut each peach half into 6 wedges.
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8
Arrange a circle of wedges, overlapping them slightly, around the edge of the pan, on top of the caramel.
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9
Arrange another circle of wedges in the center, facing the opposite direction, covering the caramel completely.
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10
Make the cake: sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt together in a bowl; whisk to combine; set aside.
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11
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and vanilla, blend well; set aside.
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12
In the bowl of an electric mixer, using the paddle attachment, beat the butter on med-high speed until creamy, about 1 minute.
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13
Gradually add in the sugar and beat on high speed until the mixture is lightened in texture and color, 2-3 minutes.
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14
Decrease speed to medium and add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
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15
On low speed, add in the flour mixture in three additions, alternating with the sour cream mixture in two additions, mixing just until blended.
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16
Spoon batter in large dollops over the peaches, then smooth it into an even layer.
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17
Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the cake is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.
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18
Set the pan on a wire rack and cool for 10 minutes.
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19
Run a thin-bladed knife around the edge of the pan; using pot holders, very carefully invert cake onto a cake plate or platter.
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20
Peel off the parchment paper if necessary.
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21
Serve cake warm or at room temperature.
