California Peach Pudding (Fresh Peaches)

California Peach Pudding (Fresh Peaches) Recipe: A Taste of Summer

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

California Peach Pudding (Fresh Peaches)

California Peach Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines creamy rice pudding with a sweet and tangy peach topping. This recipe is perfect for showcasing fresh, juicy peaches in a comforting and satisfying dessert.

History

California Peach Pudding has its roots in traditional rice pudding recipes, which have been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The addition of fresh peaches to the pudding creates a unique and delicious twist on this classic dessert.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice
3 cups milk
0.33 cup honey
0.25 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp butter or margarine

Peach Topping

0.33 cup firmly packed brown sugar
3 to 4 peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced*
2 tsp cornstarch
0.25 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp butter or margarine
2 tbsp brandy or 1 tsp brandy extract
6 tbsp slivered almonds, toasted
whipped or sour cream (optional)

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine rice, milk, honey, and salt.
Cook over medium heat for about 30 minutes, or until thickened, stirring often.
Add vanilla and butter, and mix well.
Portion the mixture into serving dishes.
Serve with peach topping.
For the peach topping, sprinkle sugar over the peaches.
Let the peaches stand for 30 minutes or longer.
In a separate saucepan, combine cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon.
Blend a little of the juice from the peaches into the cornstarch mixture.
Add the peaches and the rest of the juice to the saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, or until clear and thickened.
Remove from heat.
Stir in butter and brandy.
Spoon the peach topping over the rice pudding.
Sprinkle with almonds.
Serve the rice pudding warm or cold, topped with cream.

Variations

Substitute the peaches with other fruits such as berries or apples for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cardamom to the rice pudding for a warm and aromatic touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the rice pudding mixture often while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.

- When preparing the peach topping, allow the peaches to sit with the sugar for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Toasting the almonds before sprinkling them on top of the pudding will enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve California Peach Pudding warm or cold, topped with whipped cream or sour cream for added richness. This dessert pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the rice pudding mixture over medium heat to ensure it thickens properly without burning.

- Allow the peach topping to simmer until it is clear and thickened to achieve the perfect consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use coconut milk or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative to regular milk.

- Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the rice pudding and peach topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the rice pudding and assemble the dessert.

Presentation Ideas

Serve California Peach Pudding in individual dessert bowls or ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of cinnamon for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dessert with a glass of sweet dessert wine such as Moscato or Riesling for a delightful end to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover California Peach Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 24g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 6g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 8% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

Contains milk and almonds

Summary

California Peach Pudding is a moderately high-carb dessert with a good amount of healthy fats from almonds. It also provides a decent amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

California Peach Pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert that combines creamy rice pudding with a sweet and tangy peach topping. This recipe is perfect for showcasing fresh peaches and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this delightful dessert warm or cold for a satisfying treat any time of year.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I hold dear to my heart. It was a warm summer day in California, and the scent of ripe peaches filled the air as I walked through the farmer's market. The sun was shining brightly, and the vibrant colors of the fruits and vegetables on display caught my eye.

I had always loved peaches, and the sight of them piled high in baskets made my mouth water. As I picked up a ripe peach and took a bite, the sweet juice dripped down my chin, and I knew that I had to find a way to incorporate these delicious fruits into a dessert.

I wandered from stall to stall, asking the farmers for their favorite peach recipes. Some suggested peach cobbler, while others recommended peach pie. But it wasn't until I stumbled upon an elderly woman selling homemade jams and preserves that I found the recipe that would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

The woman, whose name was Mrs. Thompson, had a kind smile and a twinkle in her eye as she told me about her California Peach Pudding. She explained that it was a simple yet delicious dessert that showcased the natural sweetness of the peaches. She even offered to write down the recipe for me, and I eagerly accepted.

Mrs. Thompson's recipe called for fresh peaches, sugar, flour, butter, and a touch of cinnamon. It was a straightforward recipe that relied on the quality of the ingredients rather than fancy techniques. I couldn't wait to try it out for myself.

That evening, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. I peeled and sliced the peaches, tossing them with sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. In a separate bowl, I mixed together flour and butter until it formed a crumbly topping. I then layered the peaches in a baking dish and topped them with the buttery crumbs.

As the pudding baked in the oven, the aroma of sweet peaches and cinnamon filled the kitchen. I couldn't resist peeking through the oven door, watching as the topping turned golden brown and bubbled around the edges.

When the pudding was ready, I scooped a generous portion onto a plate and took a bite. The peaches were tender and juicy, their natural sweetness enhanced by the cinnamon and sugar. The buttery topping added a delightful crunch that contrasted perfectly with the soft fruit.

I knew that I had found a winner when my family devoured the dessert in record time, asking for seconds and thirds. From that day on, California Peach Pudding became a staple in our household, a beloved recipe passed down through the generations.

Over the years, I have made this dessert countless times, each batch bringing back memories of that sunny day at the farmer's market and the kind woman who shared her recipe with me. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a splash of vanilla or a sprinkle of nutmeg, but the essence of Mrs. Thompson's California Peach Pudding remains unchanged.

As I write this story, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the joy and laughter that this simple dessert has brought to my family. The recipe may have originated from Mrs. Thompson, but it has become a part of me, a symbol of love and tradition that I will pass on to future generations.

So, the next time you find yourself with a basket of fresh peaches, I urge you to try this recipe for yourself. Let the sweet aroma of peaches and cinnamon fill your kitchen, and savor each bite of this delightful dessert. Who knows, maybe one day you'll pass it on to your own grandchildren, creating new happy memories along the way.