Introduction
Dive into the heart of Southern cuisine with the Tennessee Peach Pudding, a delightful dessert that speaks volumes of the region’s culinary heritage. This dish combines the juiciness of ripe peaches with a light, airy batter, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings the warmth and comfort of the South straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create this masterpiece, you’ll need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 5 cups of 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
For the Sweet Topping:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Ice cream/whipped cream/cool whip, optional, for garnish
How To Make Tennessee Peach Pudding
- Preheat your oven to 400º F (204º C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to set the stage for your pudding.
- Start with the topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, sugar, and nutmeg. Add in the butter and water, then whisk until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil. Ensure the sugar dissolves completely before removing from heat.
- For the filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually whisk in milk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Carefully fold in the diced peaches until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Assemble the pudding: Pour the peach filling into the prepared baking dish. Gently pour the sweet topping mixture over the filling, creating a layer that will caramelize as it bakes.
- Bake to perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil to prevent burning. The pudding is done when it’s beautifully golden and set.
- Serving: Allow the pudding to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This rest period lets the pudding set and makes it easier to serve. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve warm with a choice of ice cream, whipped cream, or cool whip.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Tennessee Peach Pudding recipe is designed to be both simple and sophisticated, ensuring that each bite delivers a burst of flavors that are deeply satisfying. The use of fresh or frozen peaches allows for flexibility depending on the season, ensuring this dish can be enjoyed year-round. The spices, cinnamon, and nutmeg, are carefully measured to complement the peaches’ sweetness without overpowering them, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Conclusion
Tennessee Peach Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Southern comfort food at its best. By following this detailed recipe, you’re not just baking; you’re crafting an experience that will linger in the memories of those who taste it. Perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or a comforting treat, this pudding is sure to warm hearts and satisfy sweet cravings.