Tennessee Peach Pudding

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 3: Make the Pudding Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
2. In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, and the remaining ½ cup sugar until smooth.
3. Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the pudding light and tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Pudding

1. Arrange the peaches evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Pour the batter gently over the peaches. Don’t worry if some peaches peek through—the fruit juices will mingle with the batter as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean.
• The pudding will puff up during baking but may settle slightly as it cools.

Step 6: Serve

• Let the pudding cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.
• Spoon the pudding into bowls, making sure each serving gets a generous portion of juicy peaches and cake.
• Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Tips for the Perfect Tennessee Peach Pudding:

• Ripe peaches are key: The flavor of this pudding depends on the quality of your fruit. Choose peaches that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch.
• Juicy texture: If your peaches aren’t very juicy, sprinkle an extra tablespoon of lemon juice and a bit more sugar to encourage natural juices during baking.
• Make ahead: This pudding can be made a few hours in advance and served slightly warm or at room temperature. Reheat gently if needed.

Conclusion:

Tennessee Peach Pudding is a celebration of Southern flavors: sweet, tender peaches nestled in a soft, buttery pudding. It’s deceptively simple to make yet feels like a special treat every time. Whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy fall evening, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut “one-bowl method” version of this recipe that’s even easier but just as delicious, perfect for busy cooks. Do you want me to do that?