My Tennessee nana passed this down, and it's been a family tradition since!

Tennessee Peach Pudding is a heartwarming dessert that brings a touch of Southern charm to any meal. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with a tender, cakey topping, this dish is both comforting and delightful. It's perfect for family gatherings, summer picnics, or simply as a treat to end a cozy dinner at home.

Tennessee Peach Pudding pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you're looking to create a full Southern-inspired spread, consider serving it alongside fried chicken, coleslaw, and buttery cornbread. A refreshing iced tea or a glass of lemonade adds the perfect finishing touch to this hearty meal.

Servings: 6-8

4 cups peeled and sliced fresh peaches (about 5-6 peaches)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup boiling water

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, combine the peaches and granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Pour the melted butter into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it covers the bottom evenly.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add in the milk and vanilla extract, stirring until you have a smooth batter.

Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir.

Spoon the sugared peaches gently over the batter.

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cornstarch together, then sprinkle this mixture over the peaches.

Carefully pour the boiling water over the entire dish. Do not stir.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake part comes out clean.

Allow the pudding to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will give the sauce time to thicken.

For a twist, try adding a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries to the peaches for a mixed fruit pudding. If you have nut allergies in the family, avoid the temptation to garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts. For a spiced version, mix a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. For those who prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugar by about a quarter, and it will still be delicious.