Tennessee Peach Pudding is a delightful dessert that celebrates the sweet, juicy flavors of peaches. This Southern comfort dish features a soft, fluffy cake topped with a crispy, buttery layer that perfectly complements the freshness of the fruit. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a comforting treat on a quiet evening, this pudding is sure to impress. Its versatility makes it suitable for breakfast or dessert, and it pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of peaches, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates an irresistible flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm for breakfast or chilled as a refreshing dessert; you can’t go wrong!
- Perfect for Gatherings: This dessert serves eight, making it an ideal choice for sharing with friends and family during special occasions.
- Comforting and Satisfying: The fluffy cake combined with juicy peaches offers a cozy comfort that feels like home in every bite.
Tools and Preparation
To make Tennessee Peach Pudding successfully, having the right tools will streamline your baking process. Here are the essentials you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (8-inch)
- Saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
- Baking dish (8-inch): Ensures even cooking and proper portion sizes for this dessert.
- Saucepan: Necessary for preparing the topping syrup that adds flavor and moisture.
Ingredients
This Southern comfort dessert combines juicy peaches with a soft, fluffy cake and a crispy, buttery topping. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!
For the Cake Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 cups sliced peeled peaches (fresh or frozen)
For the Topping
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
How to Make Tennessee Peach Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it heats up, grease an 8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
2. Add milk to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
3. Fold in the sliced peaches gently to maintain their shape.
Step 3: Pour into Baking Dish
Pour the peach batter into your prepared baking dish evenly.
Step 4: Make the Topping Syrup
In a saucepan:
1. Combine water, granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, and nutmeg.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring until sugars dissolve completely.
Step 5: Bake the Pudding
Pour the syrup over the peach batter in the baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious on its own or served warm with vanilla ice cream if desired!
How to Serve Tennessee Peach Pudding
Tennessee Peach Pudding is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance its flavors.
A La Mode
- Serve a slice of warm Tennessee Peach Pudding topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peaches.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Drizzle some caramel sauce over the pudding for an indulgent touch. The rich flavor complements the peaches perfectly.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Garnish each serving with fresh peach slices or berries to add a burst of freshness and color to your dessert plate.
Coffee Pairing
- Enjoy your pudding alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth and richness of the drink balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
How to Perfect Tennessee Peach Pudding
To make your Tennessee Peach Pudding even more delightful, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best results.
- Use ripe peaches: Choose fresh, ripe peaches for maximum sweetness and flavor in your pudding.
- Include spices: Adding ground cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the overall aroma and adds depth to the dish.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste your peaches before adding sugar; you may want to reduce sugar if they are overly sweet.
- Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Check baking time: Keep an eye on your pudding while it bakes. Ovens vary, so adjust baking time as necessary until the center is set.
- Cool before serving: Allow your pudding to cool slightly after baking. This will help set the layers and improve texture.
Best Side Dishes for Tennessee Peach Pudding
Pairing side dishes with Tennessee Peach Pudding can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.
Vanilla Ice Cream
A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the fruitiness of the pudding.Fresh Berries Salad
A refreshing mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries brings brightness to your meal.Chilled Lemonade
The tartness of lemonade provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.Cornbread Muffins
Sweet cornbread muffins add a comforting element that complements the Southern roots of this dish.Greek Yogurt Parfait
Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy side that contrasts well with rich desserts.Honey Butter Biscuits
Soft biscuits spread with honey butter offer delightful sweetness and fluffiness alongside each slice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Tennessee Peach Pudding can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that may ruin your dish if you’re not careful.
- Using unripe peaches: Select ripe, sweet peaches for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they’re thawed and drained properly.
- Skipping the greasing step: Failing to grease the baking dish can lead to sticking. Always use butter or nonstick spray for easy removal.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake fluffy. Overmixing can result in a dense texture.
- Not checking oven temperature: Every oven is different; an inaccurate temperature can affect baking time. Use an oven thermometer for precision.
- Ignoring cooling time: Letting it cool slightly before serving enhances texture and flavor. Patience pays off with this dessert!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Tennessee Peach Pudding in an airtight container.
- It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Tennessee Peach Pudding
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tennessee Peach Pudding
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pan, stirring gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about making Tennessee Peach Pudding.
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
You can use canned peaches, but make sure they are well-drained. Fresh or frozen peaches provide the best flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for milk in this recipe?
You can use any plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk as a suitable alternative without compromising taste.
How do I know when my pudding is done baking?
The pudding is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Can I customize Tennessee Peach Pudding?
Absolutely! You can add spices like ginger or cardamom, or mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety.
Is it okay to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
Tennessee Peach Pudding is a comforting dessert that appeals to many palates with its sweet peaches and soft cake texture. It’s perfect for breakfast or as an after-dinner treat. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or spices!
Tennessee Peach Pudding
Tennessee Peach Pudding is a delightful Southern dessert that showcases the naturally sweet and juicy flavors of peaches. This comforting dish features a fluffy cake base topped with a crispy, buttery layer, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm for breakfast or served chilled as a refreshing dessert, this pudding pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Simple to prepare using fresh or frozen peaches, this recipe captures the essence of summer in every bite and is perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 cups sliced peeled peaches (fresh or frozen)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease an 8-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Add milk and stir until just combined. Gently fold in sliced peaches.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- In a saucepan, combine water, granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil over medium heat until sugars dissolve.
- Pour the syrup over the peach batter in the baking dish. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg