Peach Pudding Delight

Introduction

Peach Pudding Delight is a light, creamy, no-bake dessert layered with juicy peaches, vanilla pudding, and whipped topping over a buttery crust or cookie base. It’s a perfect summer treat but works beautifully year-round with canned or fresh peaches. Easy to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or anytime you crave a fruity dessert.

Ingredients

For the base (optional):

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed vanilla wafers
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened (optional for extra richness)

For the fruit layer:

• 2 cups sliced fresh or canned peaches (drained if canned)
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, if using fresh peaches)
• 1 tsp lemon juice (to brighten flavor)

Topping:

• Additional whipped topping
• Crushed cookies or chopped nuts (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the base (if using):
   Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish. Refrigerate to set while preparing the rest.
2. Make the pudding layer:
   Whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. If using cream cheese, blend it until smooth and then mix into the pudding.
3. Fold in whipped topping:
   Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until smooth and creamy.
4. Prepare the peaches:
   Toss peach slices with lemon juice and sugar if desired. Pat dry slightly if they’re too juicy.
5. Assemble the layers:
   Spread half the pudding mixture over the crust. Layer with peaches. Add the remaining pudding mixture and smooth the top. Finish with a layer of whipped topping.
6. Chill:
   Refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours, or until set and chilled through.
7. Serve:
   Garnish with extra peach slices, crushed cookies, or nuts. Slice and serve cold.

Description

Peach Pudding Delight is cool, creamy, and bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe peaches. The pudding layer is silky and smooth, while the buttery base (if used) adds a soft crunch for contrast. It’s a refreshing, low-effort dessert that delivers big on comfort and flavor.

Tips

• Use well-drained canned peaches or pat fresh peaches dry to prevent excess moisture.
• Add a few drops of almond extract to the pudding for a deeper flavor.
• Make ahead—the flavors get better as it chills!
• Use a clear dish to show off the layers beautifully.

Variations

• Peach-Mango Delight: Add diced mango for a tropical twist.
• Low Sugar: Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping.
• Biscuit Base: Try crushed digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies for a different texture.
• Peach Berry Version: Layer in blueberries or raspberries with the peaches for added color and tartness.

Correction

If your pudding layer is runny, make sure you’re using instant pudding and cold milk. If it’s too stiff, reduce the amount of whipped topping or milk slightly. If the crust is crumbly, press it firmly into the dish and chill it longer before adding the filling.

Enjoy!

Serve chilled with a smile! This Peach Pudding Delight is the kind of dessert that makes people ask for seconds. Creamy, fruity, and fuss-free—it’s a slice of sunshine on a plate.