Tennessee Peach Pudding

Posted by Moh Sab
Tennessee Peach Pudding

Tennessee Peach Pudding is a classic Southern dessert that celebrates the region’s love for ripe, juicy peaches and simple, comforting cooking. Despite its name, it’s closer to a baked cobbler than a creamy pudding. Fresh peaches are usually sliced and layered into a buttered baking dish, then topped with a soft batter made from flour, sugar, milk, and butter. As it bakes, the batter rises around the fruit, creating a golden, cake-like topping with peaches bubbling underneath.

Tennessee Peach Pudding

What makes Tennessee Peach Pudding special is its focus on local peaches, especially those harvested at peak ripeness during the summer. The dessert is gently spiced—often with just a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg—so the natural sweetness and flavor of the peaches remain the star. It’s commonly served warm, sometimes with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, making it a favorite at family gatherings, church suppers, and potlucks across Tennessee.

More than just a dessert, Tennessee Peach Pudding reflects Southern hospitality: uncomplicated ingredients, shared at the table, and meant to be enjoyed together.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3 cups sliced peeled peaches fresh or frozen

Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

How To Make Tennessee Peach Pudding

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease an 8-inch baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon if using.
  3. Add milk and stir until combined.
  4. Carefully fold in the peaches.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
  6. For the topping, combine water, sugars, butter, and nutmeg in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugars dissolve.
  7. Pour the syrup over the peach batter.
  8. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with vanilla ice cream if desired!