Magnolia Bakery Peach Crisp

Magnolia Bakery Peach Crisp Pudding is the kind of dreamy cold dessert that just begs for summer afternoons and family gatherings. Imagine perfectly ripe peaches nestled in creamy vanilla pudding and soft clouds of whipped cream with layers of Nilla wafers and a buttery crumble. No oven needed and every spoonful feels like a trip to the South. This was my go-to dessert when the heat was sweltering and turning on the stove felt impossible.

My family was skeptical about a peach pudding instead of the classic banana version but now everyone requests it whenever peaches are in season. I love watching guests try to guess if it is homemade or from a fancy bakery.

Ingredients

• Sweetened condensed milk: the secret to a perfectly smooth and rich pudding look for a quality brand with only milk and sugar listed
• Cold water: thins out the condensed milk to the right consistency use filtered water for best flavor
• Instant vanilla pudding: JELLO brand gives that classic taste and texture
• Heavy cream: makes the filling especially luscious and light use fresh cream with no additives if possible
• Nilla wafers: the childhood favorite soaks up flavor and gets perfectly soft choose a box with cookies intact not crushed
• Fresh peaches: the star juicy and ripe but still firm enough to slice pick peaches that yield to gentle pressure but do not bruise easily
• Sugar and brown sugar: bring out the peaches' natural sweetness and give depth to the crumble
• Fresh lemon juice: keeps the peaches bright and lifts all the flavors squeeze your own for the freshest zing
• Cornstarch: thickens the peach filling for a jammy texture
• Butter: adds richness to the crumble use unsalted and good quality for the best crumble
• Flour and cinnamon: make a fragrant buttery crumb choose all purpose flour and fresh cinnamon for warmth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Pudding Base:

Whisk together sweetened condensed milk and cold water in a large mixing bowl until fully combined and smooth. Sprinkle the instant vanilla pudding mix over the top and whisk vigorously for two full minutes until no lumps remain and the mixture is thickened. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator until set for at least one hour to allow the pudding to firm up.

Prepare the Peach Filling:

Peel and slice your peaches making sure each slice is about one quarter inch thick. In a medium skillet over medium heat add the sliced peaches white sugar brown sugar and fresh lemon juice. Stir everything together gently and cook for about two minutes until the sugar starts melting and the peaches get juicy. Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the mixture and stir constantly for five more minutes as it thickens and the sauce becomes glossy. Turn off the heat and transfer the filling to a bowl to cool. For fastest cooling chill in the refrigerator.

Make the Crumble Topping:

In a separate bowl combine the softened butter white sugar brown sugar flour and cinnamon. Rub together with your fingers or a fork until the mixture forms small moist crumbs that hold their shape when pinched. Since the flour is not cooked place it in a microwave safe bowl by itself and microwave on high in 30 second bursts for a total of 90 seconds stirring in between to make it safe to eat.

Whip the Cream and Finish the Pudding:

Pour the heavy cream into the bowl of a stand mixer or use a hand mixer. Beat on medium high speed until stiff peaks form the cream will look thick and hold its shape. Scoop the chilled and set pudding mixture into the whipped cream a heaping spoonful at a time and fold gently until completely blended for a fluffy texture without deflating the cream.

Layer the Dessert:

In a deep trifle bowl or individual glass containers start with a generous layer of the pudding cream mixture. Add a layer of Nilla wafers arranging them so they mostly cover the pudding. Spoon a layer of cooled peach filling over the cookies spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the buttery crumble on top of the peaches for some crunch. Repeat the layers until you have filled your dish ending with a final flourish of pudding mixture and a sprinkle of crumble. For extra flair dollop on a little extra whipped cream.

Chill Before Serving:

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for four to six hours. This is essential to soften the cookies and allow the flavors to come together. When ready to serve use a large spoon to scoop out generous portions making sure each bite includes every layer.

Save

Fresh peaches are really the star here and they remind me of the summers I spent raiding my grandmother's fruit trees. There is just something magical about combining a just picked peach with cool cream and crumbly cookies. My kids help peel peaches every July and sneaking those first slices is a summer tradition.

Storage Tips

Keep the assembled pudding tightly covered in the refrigerator. The cookies get softer over time making the dessert even creamier but consider enjoying within three days for best texture. If you want crisper crumble reserve some and sprinkle it fresh just before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use store bought frozen sliced peaches if good ripe peaches are not available just thaw completely and pat dry. Instead of Nilla wafers try shortbread cookies or ladyfingers. If you are dairy free coconut whipped topping and a plant based pudding mix can work with slightly different flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dessert in tall glasses for a pretty individual option or pile high in a classic glass trifle bowl. Top with a sprig of fresh mint for a little color. This is excellent alongside grilled summer meals or as the star at a potluck.

Cultural Note

Magnolia Bakery is famous for their banana pudding which inspired this peachy twist. Southern style trifles and puddings have long been part of summer celebrations and combining fresh fruit with cream and cookies or cake is a tradition dating back generations. This recipe captures that comforting down home vibe with a nod to NYC bakery flair.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of peaches works best?

Ripe, fresh yellow peaches offer the best flavor and texture. Make sure to peel and slice them for even layering.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assembling in advance allows the wafers to soften, creating a lush texture. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.

→ What can I use instead of Nilla wafers?

Shortbread cookies, ladyfingers, or graham crackers make great substitutes depending on desired flavor and texture.

→ Is this dessert served cold or warm?

This trifle-style dish is best enjoyed chilled for a refreshing, creamy experience during warm weather.

→ How do I make the crumble safe to eat?

Briefly heat the flour in the microwave before mixing, as the crumble remains uncooked in the final dish.