Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of the South with this tantalizing Tennessee Peach Pudding recipe. Bursting with the sweet essence of fresh peaches and infused with warm spices, this delightful dessert captures the essence of Southern hospitality in every bite. Whether you’re indulging in the bounty of summer peaches or savoring the warmth of winter with frozen fruit, this recipe promises to evoke memories of lazy afternoons and sweet indulgence. Let’s dive into the luscious world of Tennessee Peach Pudding!
Ingredients:
For the Peach Pudding:
- 5 cups diced peaches (fresh or frozen, peeled)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp sea salt
For the Topping:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Peach Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced peaches and granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to allow the peaches to release their juices.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sea salt.
- Gradually add the whole milk and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Assemble the Pudding:
- Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish.
- Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, and cinnamon, stirring until the sugars dissolve and the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Add the Topping:
- Carefully pour the hot sugar mixture over the peach and batter mixture in the baking dish. Do not stir.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
- Serve:
- Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Nutty Crunch: Add a layer of chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for added texture and flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of grated lemon or orange zest to the peach mixture for a hint of brightness.
- Boozy Twist: For an adult version, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the peach mixture before baking for a subtle kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the carb content while maintaining the sweetness of the dish.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour, and swap out the granulated and brown sugars for a low-carb sweetener to make the pudding suitable for a low-carb lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh or frozen? A: While fresh or frozen peaches are preferred for their natural sweetness and texture, canned peaches can be used as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to drain them well before using.
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the pudding in advance and reheat it in the oven before serving. However, keep in mind that the topping may become softer upon reheating.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I adjust the sweetness of the pudding? A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in both the peach mixture and the topping according to your taste preferences.
Indulge in the irresistible charm of Tennessee Peach Pudding, where every spoonful is a taste of Southern tradition and warmth. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dessert on a chilly evening or a sweet treat to celebrate the bounty of summer, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. Customize it to suit your preferences, whether you prefer it warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream. So gather your ingredients and embrace the sweet allure of this Southern classic – it’s peach perfection in every bite!
