Homemade Vanilla Pudding
Ingredients
- 3 cups whole milk
divided
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- ¾ cup sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
- 1
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of the milk with the cornstarch. Set aside.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the remaining milk, salt, and sugar. Allow the mixture to heat over medium heat until it is steaming; do not let it boil.
- 3
While the milk heats, whisk the egg yolks in a separate small bowl. Once the milk is steaming, slowly stream ½ cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly. Slowly add the egg yolk mixture back to the pot, followed by the cornstarch mixture. Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture starts to simmer and has thickened.
- 4
Remove from the heat and whisk in the butter and vanilla.
- 5
Pour into individual serving dishes. Top each with a layer of plastic wrap touching the top of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming and serve warm or allow to chill for several hours before serving.
Homemade Vanilla Pudding
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About this Recipe
Craving that comforting, creamy spoonful of homemade goodness that takes you straight back to childhood? Forget the overly sweet, artificial flavors of boxed mixes. This Homemade Vanilla Pudding recipe delivers an exceptionally rich, velvety dessert with incredible depth, proving that the simplest ingredients often yield the most satisfying results. You'll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.
What makes this vanilla pudding truly stand out is its commitment to classic, wholesome ingredients. By using whole milk, egg yolks, and real butter, you build a luxurious base that's impossible to achieve with powdered mixes. The pure vanilla extract then shines through, offering a warm, inviting aroma and flavor that's both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying. This isn't just a dessert; it's a delightful experience.
Expect a pudding that is wonderfully smooth and thick, with a luscious mouthfeel that melts on your tongue. The natural sweetness is balanced by the rich dairy and subtle notes from the vanilla, creating a perfectly harmonious flavor profile. Whether you prefer it warm and comforting or chilled to a refreshing coolness, this pudding offers a versatile texture that holds up beautifully. It’s a naturally decadent treat perfect for any occasion.
Customizing your vanilla pudding is wonderfully simple. While whole milk is recommended for ultimate creaminess, you can experiment with 2% milk for a slightly lighter texture, though it may not be quite as rich. For an extra layer of warmth, consider a tiny pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg stirred in. If you're out of pure vanilla extract, a good quality vanilla bean paste or even an extra splash of regular vanilla extract can work, though pure vanilla extract truly makes a difference.
This classic vanilla pudding is perfect as a standalone dessert, served simply in bowls. It also makes a fantastic base for parfaits layered with fresh berries or crumbled cookies, or as a decadent filling for tarts and pies. Enjoy it as a comforting treat on a cozy evening, or as an elegant end to a special meal.