There is something truly magical about the luscious, velvety texture of a classic dessert like the Creamy Butterscotch Pudding Recipe. This irresistible pudding combines rich brown sugar caramel notes with a smooth, buttery finish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re craving a comforting treat or want to impress friends with a homemade delight, this pudding is the perfect way to shine in the kitchen. Let me share all the delicious details to help you master this timeless favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two stages of cooking in a silver pot on a black stove with white marbled texture around. On the left, a woman's hand is holding a small blue bowl full of light brown sugar above the pot that contains melted golden-yellow butter, with the sugar partly poured inside forming a mound. On the right, there is a close-up of the pot with thick, rich, caramel-colored syrup bubbling and being stirred by a light pink spatula. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Creamy Butterscotch Pudding Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a distinct role in creating the depth of flavor and irresistible creaminess you’ll love. Here’s your must-have list to get you started:

Brown sugar (220 g): Provides that unmistakable butterscotch sweetness and caramelized flavor.
Unsalted butter (110 g total, divided): Adds richness and helps create the smooth, glossy texture.
Heavy cream (230 g): Brings a silky, indulgent body to the pudding.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the butterscotch flavor.
Vanilla (1 teaspoon): Lifts the pudding with warm, aromatic notes.
Whole milk (480 g): Provides creaminess without overpowering the delicate taste.
Egg yolks (4): Responsible for thickening and creating that custard-like consistency.
Corn starch (45 g): Helps stabilize the pudding and achieve the perfect set.

How to Make Creamy Butterscotch Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Make the Butterscotch Base

Begin by melting butter and brown sugar together on medium heat. Keep stirring gently to prevent the butter from separating and cook slowly until you see a shiny, bubbly caramel forming. This careful slow cooking is the cornerstone of your pudding’s rich flavor, so patience here really pays off.

Step 2: Add Hot Cream to the Butterscotch

While the butterscotch is coming together, warm the heavy cream just until it starts to simmer. Slowly pour the cream into your caramel mixture with continuous stirring, then cook for a few more minutes carefully without boiling. This turning point creates a luscious liquid that’s ready to become pudding magic.

Step 3: Whisk the Egg Yolk Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks vigorously until slightly fluffy, then blend in the cornstarch until you have a smooth, pale mixture. This mixture will lend an incredibly smooth and creamy consistency to the pudding.

Step 4: Combine and Heat the Mixtures

Heat the milk gently, then stir in your butterscotch sauce. Warm the combined liquids to a gentle simmer and take care to keep it from boiling over. Slowly whisk the warm mixture into the egg yolks, tempering them perfectly to avoid scrambling. This step thickens your pudding while keeping it silky.

Step 5: Cook until Thickened

Return everything to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly. As soon as it begins to boil, continue whisking for about a minute until thick, glossy, and perfectly smooth. If any lumps form, just whisk them away — your patience will shine through in the texture.

Step 6: Strain and Finish with Butter

For the ultimate silky finish, pass your pudding through a strainer to remove any bits. The last touch is folding in the second portion of softened butter with a gentle spatula motion, which adds a dreamlike creaminess that will make this even more irresistible.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Divide the pudding into serving bowls, covering the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours until beautifully set but still creamy. Your efforts here will turn out a perfectly smooth, dreamy pudding ready to delight.

How to Serve Creamy Butterscotch Pudding Recipe

The image shows three transparent glass bowls filled with a creamy caramel pudding. Each bowl has a light brown smooth pudding base topped with white whipped cream dollops arranged around the edge. There is a drizzle of rich caramel sauce over the whipped cream and small chunks of crunchy toffee sprinkled on top. One bowl is in front where a spoon is lifting a scoop, showing the pudding's thick and soft texture with caramel sauce dripping from the spoon. The bowls are placed on a beige cloth on a white marbled surface next to a wooden board holding a vanilla bean pod. The light is soft and natural, highlighting the dessert’s creamy and glossy texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While this pudding is stunning on its own, toppings take it to another level. Try a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or Chantilly cream, a drizzle of reserved butterscotch sauce, and a few shavings of dark chocolate. These touches create a wonderful balance of textures and flavors.

Side Dishes

This pudding is a dessert star but can also be paired with simple accompaniments like shortbread cookies, toasted nuts, or fresh berries. These sides add crunch or tartness that contrast beautifully with the silky sweetness of the pudding.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Creamy Butterscotch Pudding Recipe in vintage glass bowls for a nostalgic feel, or layer it in parfait glasses with crushed cookies and whipped cream. You can even turn it into a fancy trifle by layering with sponge cake and caramelized nuts for a decadent twist that will wow everyone.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pudding holds up beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days when kept covered. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.

Freezing

Freezing this pudding is not recommended as the texture can become grainy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated if you want to prepare in advance.

Reheating

If you prefer to serve it warm, reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat while stirring frequently. Be careful not to boil it again to maintain the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?

While you can substitute light cream, the pudding’s richness and silky texture might be slightly reduced. Heavy cream is ideal for that luxurious mouthfeel that makes this Creamy Butterscotch Pudding Recipe so special.

Is it necessary to temper the eggs when making the pudding?

Yes, tempering slowly adds warmth to the eggs, preventing them from scrambling and ensuring a smooth custard without lumps, which is key for the perfect pudding texture.

Can I make this pudding vegan or dairy-free?

Adapting this recipe for a vegan or dairy-free diet would require significant changes, like using plant-based cream and milk, vegan butter substitutes, and egg replacers. The classic flavor and texture may change, but it’s worth experimenting!

How thick should the pudding be before I remove it from the heat?

The pudding should coat the back of a spoon and hold a line drawn with your finger when it’s thick enough. This ensures it will set nicely in the fridge while remaining creamy.

What’s the best way to avoid a skin forming on the pudding?

Placing plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding while it chills creates an airtight seal, preventing that unwanted skin from forming and keeping your pudding perfectly smooth.

Final Thoughts

There you have it — a truly crave-worthy Creamy Butterscotch Pudding Recipe that invites you to enjoy the timeless joy of homemade dessert. With its perfectly balanced sweetness and irresistibly creamy texture, this pudding is sure to become a cherished favorite. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful creation, and taste the love in every spoonful!