If you love sweet, juicy peaches, you’ll adore this Southern Peach Pudding! This simple recipe showcases fresh peaches and combines them with easy-to-find pantry staples. I’ll guide you through each step, from selecting ripe peaches to baking the perfect pudding. With my expert tips, you’ll avoid common mistakes and impress your friends and family. Let’s dive in and make a dessert that’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
– 4 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced into thin wedges
– 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
Fresh peaches are the star of this dish. They should be ripe and juicy. I recommend peeling and slicing them thin. This helps their flavor spread throughout the pudding.
You will need some key pantry items for this recipe. Sugar adds sweetness, while flour helps bind everything together. Baking powder makes the pudding rise and become fluffy.
Additionally, don’t forget the wet ingredients. Whole milk gives the pudding creaminess. Melted butter adds richness, and vanilla extract brings a lovely aroma. Finally, ground cinnamon elevates the flavor, making every bite warm and inviting.
For serving, whipped cream or vanilla ice cream makes the perfect topping. It adds creaminess and contrasts nicely with the warm pudding. Check out the Full Recipe for more details!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Peaches
To peel peaches, first, make a small “X” on the bottom. Place them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Quickly transfer them to ice water. The skins will slip right off. Next, slice the peaches into thin wedges.
Macerating the peaches makes them sweeter. In a bowl, mix the sliced peaches with half a cup of sugar. Stir gently and let them sit for about ten minutes. This draws out their juices and boosts their flavor.
Mixing the Batter
In a clean bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir them well. This mix gives the pudding a great texture.
Now, pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy. This helps create a nice texture in the final dish.
Gently fold in the macerated peaches with their juices. Be careful not to overmix. You want to distribute the peaches evenly without breaking them up.
Baking the Southern Peach Pudding
Transfer the peach batter to your greased baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula. This ensures it bakes uniformly.
Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top. This adds extra flavor while it bakes.
Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean from the center.
Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool for ten minutes. This makes it easier to slice and enhances the flavors. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Southern Peach Pudding
To make your Southern peach pudding shine, avoid these common mistakes:
– Using unripe peaches: They lack flavor and sweetness. Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best taste.
– Overmixing the batter: This makes the pudding tough. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
– Skipping the maceration step: Letting the peaches sit with sugar boosts their flavor. Don’t rush this step.
For the right texture, follow these tips:
– Batter lumps are okay: They help create a delightful texture. Don’t worry about a perfectly smooth mix.
– Check your oven temperature: An oven thermometer can help. An accurate temperature ensures even baking.
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve, add these toppings for extra flavor:
– Whipped cream: This classic choice adds lightness and sweetness.
– Vanilla ice cream: The creaminess pairs perfectly with warm pudding.
– Fresh peach slices: They add color and enhance the peach flavor.
For plating and presentation, try these ideas:
– Serve in individual bowls: This makes each portion feel special.
– Drizzle peach juices on top: It adds a beautiful sheen and extra sweetness.
– Sprinkle with cinnamon: A light dusting before serving adds warmth and aroma.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. Enjoy your cooking!
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can switch up the main fruit in Southern Peach Pudding. Try using ripe nectarines or plums if you can’t find peaches. For sweeteners, consider brown sugar or honey. These options add a deep flavor and a unique touch.
If you need a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk. You can also use a dairy-free butter for the melted butter. For gluten-free options, swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or gluten-free flour blends.
Flavor Additions
To make your pudding special, consider adding spices. Nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom can enhance the flavor. A splash of almond or lemon extract adds a nice twist, too.
Seasonal variations can brighten your dish. In fall, add diced apples and a pinch of nutmeg. In winter, try cranberries or pears for a festive flair. Each change gives your dessert a fresh taste while keeping the comforting essence of Southern Peach Pudding.
For more details, you can find the Full Recipe online.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your Southern Peach Pudding fresh, follow these steps. First, let the pudding cool completely at room temperature. After that, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will prevent it from drying out. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat your pudding in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pudding in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. This method helps maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to save some pudding for later, freezing is a great option. Cut the pudding into individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the pudding for up to two months.
When you’re ready to eat it, take a portion out of the freezer. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight. If you need it faster, you can microwave it on low power until soft. Enjoy your delicious Southern Peach Pudding whenever you want!
FAQs
How can I make my Southern Peach Pudding thicker?
You can thicken your Southern Peach Pudding by using a few simple methods:
– Add More Flour: Increase the flour to create a denser pudding.
– Use Cornstarch: Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry. Add this to the batter.
– Reduce Liquid: Use less milk to make the pudding thicker.
If you want a creamier texture, try adding an extra egg. This can help bind everything together while adding richness.
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned peaches, but there are pros and cons:
– Pros: Canned peaches save time. They are easy to find and often already sweetened.
– Cons: Canned peaches may lack the fresh flavor of ripe ones. They can also be mushy, which changes the pudding’s texture.
If you use canned peaches, drain them well. This prevents extra liquid from making your pudding too runny.
How long will the Southern Peach Pudding last?
Southern Peach Pudding can last about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.
To keep it fresh, let it cool completely before covering. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it’s best to toss it out. Enjoy it warm or cold, but avoid keeping it too long to enjoy the best flavor!
In this blog post, we covered how to make Southern Peach Pudding from scratch. We looked at the necessary ingredients, how to prepare peaches, and the steps for mixing and baking. I shared valuable tips to help you avoid mistakes and suggested tasty toppings. Remember, you can also try variations to suit your taste.
With the right techniques, your dessert will impress everyone. Enjoy making this treat and share it with loved ones. Your Southern Peach Pudding will surely be a hit!
