Tennessee Peach Pudding

#### Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.

2. **Prepare the Peaches**:
If you’re using fresh peaches, peel and slice them into thin wedges. If using frozen peaches, simply thaw them and drain any excess liquid. Place the peaches in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and sprinkle them with **1/4 cup of the sugar**. Set them aside.

3. **Make the Pudding Mixture**:
In a large bowl, whisk together the **melted butter**, **eggs**, **milk**, and **vanilla extract** until fully combined. Add the remaining **3/4 cup sugar**, **flour**, **salt**, **baking powder**, and **cinnamon** (if using), and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. **Pour the Pudding Over the Peaches**:
Pour the pudding mixture evenly over the peaches in the baking dish. Don’t stir—the batter will naturally rise over the peaches as it bakes, creating a beautiful layer of pudding and fruit.

5. **Bake the Pudding**:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for **40-45 minutes**, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are slightly crispy and the middle is soft and gooey.

6. **Serve and Enjoy**:
Allow the pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors of Tennessee Peach Pudding!

### Why This Recipe Works

– **Perfect Balance of Sweetness**: The natural sweetness of the peaches pairs beautifully with the creamy custard-like pudding mixture, creating a dessert that’s rich but not overwhelmingly sweet.

– **Tender Peaches**: As the pudding bakes, the peaches soften and release their juices, infusing the dessert with a fruity flavor that complements the pudding perfectly. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen peaches, the result is always tender and juicy.

– **Crispy Top, Soft Center**: One of the highlights of this dessert is the texture. The top becomes golden and slightly crispy, while the center stays soft, creamy, and pudding-like, making every bite a delightful combination of textures.

– **Customizable**: Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add other fruits, such as **berries** or **apples**, for a fun twist. Or, sprinkle a bit of **nutmeg** or **cloves** into the batter for added spice.

### Tips for Perfect Tennessee Peach Pudding

– **Use Ripe Peaches**: The best flavor comes from ripe, juicy peaches. If fresh peaches aren’t in season, you can use frozen peaches—just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.

– **Serve Warm**: Tennessee Peach Pudding is best served warm, straight from the oven. The creamy texture and warm peaches make it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

– **Pair with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream**: While this pudding is delicious on its own, a scoop of **vanilla ice cream** or a dollop of **whipped cream** takes it to the next level, adding extra richness and flavor.

### Why You’ll Keep Coming Back for More

Tennessee Peach Pudding isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of Southern flavors and tradition. The combination of fresh peaches, creamy custard, and a crispy, golden top makes this dish a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy night at home, this dessert is sure to delight everyone at the table.

So the next time you’re looking for a Southern-inspired treat, give **Tennessee Peach Pudding** a try. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and bound to become a new favorite in your dessert lineup. Enjoy the sweet, comforting taste of the South in every bite!