Craving a taste of the South? Look no further than this delightful Tennessee Peach Pudding recipe. Bursting with juicy peaches, warm cinnamon, and a golden batter, this dessert is sure to evoke memories of lazy summer afternoons and family gatherings. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this comforting Southern classic.
Ingredients:
For the Peach Layer:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, sliced (about 5-6 medium peaches)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Topping:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Peach Layer: In a bowl, combine the sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and cinnamon. Toss until the peaches are evenly coated. Spread this peach mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Create the Batter: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Once combined, stir in the milk and melted butter until just mixed. Pour this batter over the peaches in the baking dish, ensuring an even layer.
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of sugar with cornstarch. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. Carefully pour the boiling water over the top, followed by a drizzle of vanilla extract. Do not stir.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, serve the Tennessee Peach Pudding warm. For an extra indulgence, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
- Servings: 8 servings
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Suggestions:
- Warm and Indulgent: Serve the Tennessee Peach Pudding warm, straight from the oven, for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- A La Mode: Enhance the flavors by topping each serving with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm pudding and cold ice cream is simply irresistible.
- Whipped Cream Delight: For a lighter touch, garnish the pudding with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The airy texture complements the richness of the dessert perfectly.
- Family Style: Present the pudding in the baking dish at the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. It’s a great way to encourage sharing and create a cozy, communal dining experience.
Storage Recommendations:
- Refrigeration: If you have any leftovers, store the cooled pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: While the pudding can be frozen, it’s best to do so before baking. Prepare the dish as instructed but refrain from baking it. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake according to the recipe instructions.
- Reheating: To reheat individual servings, simply microwave them for a few seconds until warm. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Tennessee Peach Pudding remains delectable and enjoyable, whether served fresh out of the oven or enjoyed as a leftover treat. So, indulge in this Southern delight and savor every moment of its delightful flavors.
Variations:
- Nutty Crunch: Add a crunchy element to your pudding by sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts over the peach layer before pouring the batter. The nuts will toast as the pudding bakes, adding a delightful texture and nutty flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Infuse your pudding with a burst of citrus by incorporating lemon or orange zest into the batter. The bright, tangy notes will complement the sweetness of the peaches and add a refreshing twist to the dessert.
- Spiced Sensation: Elevate the flavors with a blend of warm spices such as nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Mix these spices into the batter or sprinkle them over the peach layer for a cozy, aromatic dessert that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
- Berry Bliss: For a fruity twist, mix in fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries along with the sliced peaches. The combination of juicy berries and sweet peaches adds a burst of color and flavor to the pudding.
- Coconut Crust: Give your pudding a tropical twist by incorporating shredded coconut into the batter or sprinkling it over the top before baking. The toasted coconut adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical flair to the dessert.
- Almond Infusion: Enhance the almond flavor by adding a splash of almond extract to the batter. This subtle addition will complement the peaches beautifully and add a delicate almond aroma to the pudding.
- Boozy Boost: For an adult-friendly version, drizzle a bit of bourbon or rum over the peach layer before adding the batter. The alcohol will infuse the pudding with rich, complex flavors, making it a decadent treat for special occasions.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to customize your Tennessee Peach Pudding and create a dessert that suits your taste preferences. Whether you opt for a crunchy nut topping or a citrus-infused batter, each variation promises to be a delicious twist on this classic Southern favorite.
FAQs
- Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh ones for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute canned peaches for fresh ones. Just make sure to drain them well before using, and adjust the sugar accordingly based on their sweetness.
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in the batter? While you can use whole wheat flour, it may result in a denser texture. If you prefer a lighter pudding, stick to all-purpose flour.
- Is it necessary to use unsalted butter, or can I use salted butter for the batter? Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dessert. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can use it, but reduce the added salt in the batter.
- Can I make this pudding ahead of time and reheat it before serving? Yes, you can make the pudding ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm.
- What can I substitute for cornstarch in the topping if I don’t have any on hand? You can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a substitute for cornstarch in the topping.
- Can I freeze the pudding after it’s baked? While you can freeze the pudding, it’s best to freeze it before baking for optimal texture and flavor.
- How can I tell if the pudding is set and fully baked? The pudding is ready when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe for a less sweet dessert? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences. Keep in mind that reducing the sugar may affect the overall sweetness and texture of the pudding.
Experience the taste of Tennessee with every spoonful of this irresistible Peach Pudding. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a comforting dessert after a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey to the heart of the South.
