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Homemade Vanilla Pudding Recipe

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4.2 from 6 reviews

This Homemade Vanilla Pudding recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert made from scratch using simple ingredients like sugar, cornstarch, milk, butter, and vanilla extract. It is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings with its smooth texture and comforting classic vanilla flavor. Ideal for serving chilled, the pudding can be customized with toppings such as fresh berries or crushed cookies for added delight.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup white sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix together the white sugar, cornstarch, and salt. This base mixture ensures the pudding has the proper sweetness and thickening properties.
  2. Add milk gradually: Slowly whisk in the whole milk into the dry ingredients until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Taking this step slowly helps prevent clumping and creates a uniform texture.
  3. Cook to thicken: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly with a whisk. Bring the mixture to a boil, which takes about 8 minutes, and continue whisking constantly for an additional 1 minute after boiling to ensure the pudding thickens properly without burning.
  4. Finish with butter and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until melted and fully incorporated. These ingredients add richness and enhance the vanilla flavor.
  5. Portion and cool: Spoon the pudding evenly into five serving dishes. Let them stand at room temperature for about 10 minutes to slightly cool.
  6. Chill and set: For best results, cover each pudding dish with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent skin from forming. Refrigerate for about 2 hours until chilled and set.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Once fully chilled, serve the pudding plain or topped with fresh fruits or your favorite garnishes and enjoy this comforting homemade dessert.

Notes

  • You can substitute plant-based milk and vegan butter to make a dairy-free version of this pudding.
  • To make a chocolate variation, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
  • Serve topped with fresh berries, sliced banana, or crushed shortbread cookies for added texture and flavor.