This Easy Tennessee Peach Pudding is a warm and comforting dessert that brings a taste of summer to your table. With juicy peaches and a fluffy topping, it’s simply delightful!
I love making this pudding because it feels like a big hug in a bowl. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top, and you’ll have everyone smiling! 🍑💛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches give the best flavor, but canned peaches also work well. If using canned, choose fruit packed in juice or water, as it has less added sugar.
Self-Rising Flour: This flour helps the pudding rise nicely. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt.
Butter: I love using salted butter for this dish; it adds a nice flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use unsalted butter or even a neutral oil.
Milk: Whole milk creates a richer taste, but any milk (including almond or oat milk) will work as substitutes. Just keep an eye on the consistency!
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it adds a warm flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it or replace it with nutmeg for a different taste.
How Do I Get the Topping to Cook Perfectly?
The trick to a great topping is pouring the batter over the peaches without stirring. This allows the batter to rise and form a beautiful, fluffy layer while baking. Make sure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
- Spread the peaches evenly in the baking dish, making sure they’re not clumped together.
- When you pour the batter, do it slowly and cover the peaches completely.
- Bake until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean. This can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, so keep an eye on it in the last few minutes.
Let it cool slightly before serving so it can set a bit, making it easier to scoop out portions. Enjoy your delicious dessert!
Easy Tennessee Peach Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 2 cups fresh or canned peaches, sliced (about 4-5 medium peaches)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45 minutes to 1 hour to bake. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. So, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes total time. Perfect for a cozy evening treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or another similar-sized casserole dish to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
If you’re using fresh peaches, gently peel, pit, and slice them into nice, even pieces. If you decided to use canned peaches, simply drain them well and set them aside. Spread the peaches evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
3. Mix the Batter:
In a medium bowl, combine the sugar, self-rising flour, and a pinch of salt. If you love the warm flavor of spices, you can add the optional ground cinnamon here, too. Next, stir in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined, but don’t worry if it’s a bit lumpy—this batter is meant to be somewhat thin!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, carefully pour the batter evenly over the peaches in the baking dish. Avoid stirring it together; letting them sit on top will give you a beautiful texture as it bakes.
5. Bake:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes—oven times can vary!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked to perfection, remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly—just a few minutes should do. This allows the flavors to settle. Serve it warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat. Enjoy your Southern-style Tennessee Peach Pudding!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead?
Absolutely! If you have frozen peaches, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave them in short bursts until soft. The pudding may take a bit longer to bake, so keep an eye on it!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can make this pudding gluten-free by substituting the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that it includes a leavening agent, as self-rising flour is designed to help the batter rise!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It’s great served warm or at room temperature!
What’s a Good Serving Suggestion?
This peach pudding is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh mint leaves also make a lovely garnish!
