Homemade Vanilla Pudding Recipe

Introduction

Homemade vanilla pudding is a classic, creamy dessert that’s simple to make and delightfully satisfying. With a rich, smooth texture and the warm flavor of real vanilla, it’s perfect for an easy treat any time of year.

Ingredients

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 ¼ cups whole milk
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the milk and egg yolks, whisking until smooth and fully combined.
2. Step 2: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. This should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Continue cooking and whisking for another 1 to 2 minutes to fully cook the starch and eggs.
3. Step 3: Remove the pudding from the heat and immediately whisk in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.
4. Step 4: Pour the pudding into a heat-proof container. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming as it cools.
5. Step 5: Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully chilled and set.
6. Step 6: Before serving, stir the pudding well to restore its creamy texture. Serve in individual dishes and add your favorite toppings if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole milk for the creamiest texture; substituting with lower-fat milk may result in a thinner pudding.
• For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of cream along with the milk.
• Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.
• Make a chocolate version by adding ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients before whisking in the milk.

Storage

Store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the plastic wrap on the surface to prevent skin formation. Rewhisk gently before serving. This pudding is best enjoyed chilled and does not reheat well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk substitutes instead of whole milk?

You can use milk substitutes like almond or oat milk, but keep in mind the texture may be less creamy and the flavor will differ slightly from traditional pudding.

Why is it important to whisk constantly while cooking?

Whisking prevents lumps from forming and stops the pudding from sticking or burning on the bottom of the pan, ensuring a smooth, even texture.

Homemade Vanilla Pudding Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.8 from 108 reviews

• Author: Mariam
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This homemade vanilla pudding recipe delivers a creamy, rich dessert made from simple pantry ingredients. It features a smooth texture achieved by gently cooking a mixture of milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks on the stovetop until thickened, then infused with butter and vanilla for a classic, comforting flavor. Perfect for a make-ahead treat, this pudding chills to the ideal consistency and can be enjoyed plain or with your favorite toppings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 ¼ cups whole milk
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

---

Instructions

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until well blended, creating a smooth base for your pudding.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and egg yolks to the dry mixture, ensuring there are no lumps and the mixture is fully combined.
3. Cook and Thicken: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent clumps or scorching. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, which should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Keep whisking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the pudding reaches a creamy and thick consistency.
4. Finish the Pudding: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, enriching the flavor and texture.
5. Chill to Set: Pour the pudding into a heat-proof container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set and chilled.
6. Serve: Before serving, give the pudding a good stir to smooth out the texture. Transfer to serving dishes if desired, and add toppings such as fresh fruit or whipped cream to enhance the dessert.

Notes

• Whisk constantly during cooking to prevent lumps and scorching.
• Press plastic wrap directly on the pudding’s surface to avoid a skin forming.
• This pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with 2% milk, but the pudding will be less rich.
• Use fresh eggs for best taste and safety.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: vanilla pudding, homemade pudding, creamy dessert, stovetop pudding, classic vanilla dessert