Tennessee Peach Pudding: A Southern Classic with a Sweet Surprise
There’s something magical about old-fashioned Southern desserts, and this Tennessee Peach Pudding is no exception. Bursting with fresh, juicy peaches and topped with a rich, buttery crust, this dessert is a true celebration of Southern hospitality. Unlike a typical cobbler, Tennessee Peach Pudding stands out with its unique hot water topping that transforms into a luscious sauce as it bakes. The result is a dessert that’s crisp on the outside, soft and syrupy underneath, and full of warm peach flavor in every bite.
This Tennessee Peach Pudding is the kind of treat that brings people together. It’s simple to make, uses basic pantry ingredients, and delivers huge rewards in both flavor and nostalgia. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday supper, looking for a comforting dessert to share at a potluck, or just craving something sweet and homemade, this recipe checks all the boxes. The peaches bake into a tender filling while the cake-like topping soaks in that caramel-like syrup created during baking. It’s sweet, buttery, fruity, and completely unforgettable.
What makes Tennessee Peach Pudding even more appealing is how easily it can be adapted. Use fresh or canned peaches, adjust the sweetness to your taste, or spice it up with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg. It’s a dessert that feels like home, no matter where you are. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and you’ve got the perfect ending to any meal. This is one of those desserts that never goes out of style and once you try it, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Tennessee Peach Pudding Recipe Introduction
Tennessee Peach Pudding is a beloved Southern dessert that pairs juicy peaches with a golden, buttery crust and a surprise syrupy sauce underneath. Simple, comforting, and deeply flavorful, this recipe captures the heart of Southern baking with every bite.
Storage Options
Store Tennessee Peach Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Summary
A warm, comforting Southern dessert with tender peaches, a soft cake-like topping, and a rich syrupy layer baked right in—Tennessee Peach Pudding is a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
Mixing bowls
Whisk or wooden spoon
8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish
Saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the base:
2 cups sliced fresh or canned peaches (drained)
1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the topping:
1 cup brown sugar
¾ cup boiling water
1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter to form a smooth batter.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the peach slices evenly over the batter.
In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and boiling water. Stir until sugar dissolves, then pour the hot mixture carefully over the peaches and batter. Do not stir.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the cake portion comes out clean.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, ideally with vanilla ice cream.
Notes
You can use canned peaches in juice or syrup—just be sure to drain them well.
For added depth of flavor, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg over the peaches before baking.
Tips for Success
Don’t stir the hot water topping—it needs to sit on top to create the syrup layer during baking.
Let the pudding rest before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Use ripe, fresh peaches in summer for the best flavor.
Additional Tips and Variations
Try adding a handful of chopped pecans for a nutty crunch.
Swap peaches with nectarines or mixed berries for a twist.
Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the batter for extra flavor.
Serve with whipped cream or caramel sauce for a decadent finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen peaches in this Tennessee Peach Pudding?
Yes, just thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
Why pour hot water on top?
The hot water reacts with the sugar and butter to create a rich, syrupy layer beneath the cake as it bakes.
Is it okay to make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can bake it ahead and warm it up just before serving. It tastes even better the next day.
Conclusion
Tennessee Peach Pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of Southern tradition baked into every bite. With its gooey, golden crust, juicy peach filling, and surprise syrupy base, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy it as a cozy treat, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.