If you are craving a classic Southern dessert that bursts with juicy sweetness and comforting warmth, you must give this Tennessee Peach Pudding Recipe a try. It perfectly captures the essence of ripe, fresh peaches nestled under a tender, golden crust that bakes up beautifully in your oven. This dessert is straightforward yet so satisfying, with just the right balance of sweet and spice, making it a beloved dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or simply treating yourself, Tennessee Peach Pudding always brings a smile and that irresistible aroma of Southern hospitality into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples and fresh fruit that come together effortlessly, each playing an essential role in bringing the Tennessee Peach Pudding Recipe to life. The peaches provide juicy, fragrant sweetness, while the flour and baking powder create a light, cakey topping that soaks up all the delicious peach juices.
- 4 cups fresh ripe peaches peeled and sliced: The heart of the dish; choose peaches that are fragrant and sweet for the best flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided: Balances the tartness of peaches and sweetens the batter.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Builds the structure for the soft pudding topping.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures your pudding topping rises nicely and becomes fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out all the flavors.
- 3/4 cup whole milk: Adds moisture for a smooth batter with a rich texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides a golden crust and lovely buttery flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the batter.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy, spicy note that complements the peaches beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): A subtle hint of earthy spice to make the pudding extra special.
How to Make Tennessee Peach Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Peaches
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s just right by the time your pudding is ready to bake. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish generously to prevent sticking and create a golden crust on the edges. Toss the peeled and sliced peaches with half of the sugar, which helps draw out their natural juices and adds a lovely caramelized effect as they bake. Spread these sugared peaches evenly in the dish as the tasty base of your pudding.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining sugar. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly combined, which will give the pudding topping an even rise and a tender crumb. Taking a moment here prevents lumps and helps the batter come together smoothly.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients and Form Batter
Next, stir the whole milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. The milk adds moisture, the butter enriches flavor and texture, and vanilla brings that warm, comforting essence common in Southern desserts. Mix until you get a smooth batter that’s silky and ready to be poured over the peaches. Resist the urge to stir after pouring, so the batter can bake into a lovely cake-like topping.
Step 4: Add Spices and Bake
If you love a little extra warmth, sprinkle ground cinnamon and nutmeg over the batter. These spices complement the peaches perfectly, making the dessert aromatic and inviting. Bake your pudding for 40 to 45 minutes until the surface is golden, the pudding is set, and you see the peach filling bubbling at the edges. This bubbling is a sure sign that your Tennessee Peach Pudding is ready to come out of the oven!
How to Serve Tennessee Peach Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
This pudding is amazing served warm straight from the oven. Top it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add a cool contrast to the warm pudding. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of toasted pecans can also enhance the presentation and texture beautifully.
Side Dishes
While Tennessee Peach Pudding shines on its own as a dessert, it pairs wonderfully with simple Southern staples. Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or sweet tea for an authentic Southern experience. It also complements a scoop of tangy Greek yogurt for a slight tang and extra creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, try serving the pudding in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation perfect for dinner parties. Or layer it parfait-style with granola and fresh berries for a pretty brunch option. You can also drizzle warm caramel or honey over the top for an indulgent touch that adds richness and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Tennessee Peach Pudding has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week without losing its delightful texture and flavor.
Freezing
This pudding freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it well in advance. Wrap individual portions or the whole baking dish securely with freezer-safe wrap or foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Tennessee Peach Pudding gently in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 to 20 minutes or until warm throughout. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1 to 2 minutes. Add a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream after warming for a fresh, comforting dessert experience each time.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches work well if fresh ones are out of season. Just be sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess juices to prevent your pudding from becoming too watery. The flavor will still be delicious.
Is it possible to make this pudding vegan?
With a few substitutions, yes. Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, and consider a vegan-friendly sugar to keep the Tennessee Peach Pudding Recipe plant-based while maintaining its creamy texture.
Can I add other fruits to the pudding?
Definitely! While peaches are the star here, mixing in some sliced nectarines, plums, or berries can add interesting flavors and colors. Just keep the fruit quantity about the same to maintain the balance of the recipe.
What if I don’t have cinnamon or nutmeg?
Those spices are optional in this recipe, so you can skip them if you prefer. The pudding will still be sweet and flavorful with the peaches and vanilla carrying the main taste.
How do I know when the pudding is done?
You’ll see a beautiful golden brown crust on top, and the peach filling will be bubbling at the edges. The center should be set and not jiggly. If you insert a toothpick into the topping, it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, indicating perfect doneness.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you fall in love with this Tennessee Peach Pudding Recipe as much as I have. It’s one of those heartwarming desserts that feels like home with every bite, embodying the sweet spirit of Southern cooking. Whether it’s a weekday treat or a festive occasion, this pudding never fails to bring joy and smiles around the table. So go ahead, gather those peaches, pull out your favorite baking dish, and create a dessert memory that will linger long after the last spoonful.
Print
Tennessee Peach Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tennessee Peach Pudding is a classic Southern dessert featuring ripe peaches baked beneath a golden, fluffy batter. This comforting and easy-to-make pudding combines the natural sweetness of fresh peaches with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, it’s a delicious way to celebrate summertime peaches or enjoy year-round with frozen peaches.
Ingredients
Peach Mixture
- 4 cups fresh ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Batter
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided (1/2 cup used above and 1/2 cup below)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Toss Peaches with Sugar: In a medium bowl, combine the peeled and sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar. Toss them thoroughly so the peaches are evenly coated with sugar.
- Arrange Peaches: Spread the sugar-tossed peaches evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a flavorful fruit base.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining 1/2 cup sugar until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients to Batter: Stir the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Mix until you achieve a smooth batter without lumps.
- Pour Batter Over Peaches: Carefully pour the batter over the peaches in the baking dish without stirring, allowing the batter to cover the fruit evenly.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle the cinnamon and nutmeg evenly over the top of the batter if you choose to use them for added warmth and flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Bake until the top is golden brown and set, and you see the peach filling bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Best served warm for a comforting dessert experience.
- Pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Frozen peaches can be substituted if fresh peaches are unavailable; thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
