This easy Tennessee peach pudding is a warm and comforting dessert packed with juicy peaches and a sweet, fluffy topping. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; that’s part of its charm! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top—trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring wonderful flavor and texture. If they’re out of season, canned peaches work just fine. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid extra liquid.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is great, but brown sugar adds a nice caramel touch. You can also use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you’re watching your intake.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but for a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a gluten-free blend. The texture may vary, but it’ll still be tasty!
Milk: Whole milk gives the best creaminess, but you can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Butter: Unsalted is recommended to control saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for similar results.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Batter?
Mixing your ingredients properly is key. Whisk the sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt first, then add the wet ingredients. This method ensures even mixing without overworking the batter, leading to a fluffier pudding.
- Use room temperature milk and melted butter for smoother batter.
- Pour the batter over the peaches but resist the urge to stir! This allows the peaches to create their own delicious layer.
- Sprinkling cinnamon or nutmeg on top enhances flavors and adds a warm aroma.
Easy Tennessee Peach Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 4 cups fresh or canned peaches, sliced (drain well if using canned)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling
- Optional: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pudding takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 45–50 minutes to bake. Total time is roughly 1 hour, perfect for a cozy dessert after dinner or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for ensuring your pudding bakes evenly and turns golden brown.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
In a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, evenly spread out the sliced peaches. If using canned peaches, make sure to drain them well to avoid extra moisture in your pudding.
3. Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to mix them thoroughly.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and lump-free. It’s okay if the batter is a little thick!
5. Assemble the Pudding:
Carefully pour the batter evenly over the peaches in the baking dish. Important: do not stir! This helps create a lovely layering effect while baking.
6. Add Flavoring (Optional):
If you’d like, sprinkle some ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra hint of warmth and spice.
7. Bake Until Golden:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. Your pudding is ready when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm, and for an extra special touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Enjoy this classic Southern treat that’s simple, fruity, and absolutely delicious!
FAQ for Easy Tennessee Peach Pudding
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen peaches work well! Just make sure to thaw them first and then drain any excess water before adding them to the dish to avoid a soggy pudding.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
Can I Make This Pudding in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and layer it with peaches up to a day in advance. Just cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Remember to let it come to room temperature before putting it in the oven.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil, margarine, or a dairy-free butter alternative. Just melt it the same way as you would regular butter!
