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Homemade Vanilla Pudding

Delicious Homemade Vanilla Pudding for a Sweet Escape

This homemade vanilla pudding, made with fresh ingredients, takes only 15 minutes to prepare and offers a rich, creamy flavor that elevates any dessert experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Desserts
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pudding Base
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness; feel free to reduce for a lighter treat.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch Acts as a thickener; swap with arrowroot powder for a gluten-free alternative.
  • a pinch salt Balances the sweetness; kosher salt works well for a milder flavor.
  • 2 large egg yolks Provides richness and structure; ensure they're fresh for the best results.
  • 2 cups whole milk Delivers a creamy texture; you can use reduced-fat milk, but the pudding will be less rich.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Imparts a delightful vanilla flavor; for an authentic touch, use a split vanilla bean during cooking.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup whipped cream Adds a light, airy finish to your pudding.
  • 1 cup fresh fruit Slices of strawberries or bananas create a refreshing contrast.
  • 1/4 cup chocolate sauce A drizzle adds an indulgent twist, perfect for chocolate lovers!

Equipment

  • heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • whisk
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until well mixed.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks and 2 cups of whole milk until frothy and fully combined.
  3. Slowly pour the egg yolk and milk mixture into the saucepan with the dry ingredients while whisking continuously.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continuously stir for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Once the pudding has thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  6. Spoon the warm pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Allow to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  7. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours until fully chilled and set.
  8. Once chilled, serve with optional whipped cream, fresh fruit, or chocolate sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 150mgSugar: 15gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and stir consistently to avoid lumps. Refrigerate pudding in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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