Description
This homemade vanilla pudding recipe is a classic, creamy dessert made from scratch using simple ingredients like sugar, cornstarch, eggs, milk, and real vanilla. It’s smooth, rich, and easy to prepare on the stovetop, perfect for a comforting treat or a base for more elaborate desserts.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- ¾ tsp kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 egg yolks (whisked)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the thickening agents and seasoning.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and whole milk until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the saucepan with the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to create a smooth batter without lumps.
- Cook the pudding: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir the mixture constantly with a whisk to prevent sticking and burning, cooking it for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Add the flavorings: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste) and unsalted butter until fully incorporated, adding richness and depth of flavor.
- Chill the pudding: To prevent a skin from forming, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding. Refrigerate for several hours until fully chilled and set before serving.
Notes
- For an extra rich pudding, you can substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Using vanilla bean paste instead of extract adds a more intense vanilla flavor and little vanilla specks for visual appeal.
- Make sure to whisk constantly during cooking to avoid lumps and burning on the bottom of the pan.
- Store leftover pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve chilled, optionally topped with whipped cream or fresh fruit.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
