Tennessee Peach Pudding is a delightful Southern dessert that captures the essence of juicy peaches in a comforting, warm pudding. This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with a tender cake-like topping, creating a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served on its own or topped with a dollop of ice cream or whipped cream, this pudding is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients:
- Filling:
- 5 cups peaches, peeled and diced, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Topping:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Optional: Ice cream, whipped cream, or cool whip for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400º F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- For the topping, in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together brown sugar, sugar, and nutmeg. Add butter and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.
- For the filling, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl.
- Whisk in milk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Then, gently fold in the diced peaches.
- Pour the filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Carefully pour the sugar mixture over the filling.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, checking for doneness. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil.
- Once baked, let the pudding cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
Tips:
- Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat.
Conclusion:
Tennessee Peach Pudding is a classic Southern dessert that brings together the irresistible flavors of fresh peaches and warm spices. With its tender cake-like texture and sweet peach filling, it’s a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the taste of summer all year round with this delicious and easy-to-make dessert.
- Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh or frozen ones?
While fresh or frozen peaches are preferable for their natural flavor and texture, you can certainly use canned peaches as a convenient alternative. However, be mindful of the syrup or juice content in canned peaches, as they may contain added sugars or flavorings. Drain the canned peaches well before incorporating them into the recipe to prevent excess liquid in the pudding. - Is it necessary to peel the peaches before adding them to the pudding?
Peeling the peaches before dicing them is recommended for a smoother texture in the pudding. However, if you prefer the rustic look and don’t mind the texture of peach skins, you can leave them on. Just ensure that the peaches are washed thoroughly before dicing. The choice to peel or not to peel ultimately depends on personal preference. - Can I make Tennessee Peach Pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Tennessee Peach Pudding ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh and warm. If you want to make it in advance, you can prepare the filling and topping separately and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the pudding and bake it according to the recipe instructions. Keep in mind that the texture may slightly change upon reheating, so it’s ideal to consume it soon after baking for the best taste and texture. - What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
Tennessee Peach Pudding is a versatile dessert, and there are several variations you can explore to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the topping for added crunch and flavor.
- Incorporate other fruits such as berries or apples along with the peaches for a mixed fruit pudding.
- Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile.
- For a richer pudding, you can substitute some of the whole milk with heavy cream.
- Drizzle caramel sauce or honey over the pudding before serving for an extra indulgent touch.
Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to your liking. The possibilities are endless!