Skip the instant mixes and discover how easy it is to make your own Vanilla Pudding from scratch whenever you’re craving a sweet and creamy treat! Once you’ve mastered this simple recipe, you can experiment by adding various flavors to suit your taste. If you enjoy creamy and comforting desserts, be sure to try this recipe for the Ultimate Banana Pudding as well.
Pudding Ingredients
With common ingredients likely already in your pantry, you can whip up a bowl of creamy vanilla pudding anytime the craving strikes! Scroll down for the complete recipe.
Sugar: Granulated sugar, also known as white or regular sugar, is used to sweeten the pudding.
Cornstarch: This helps set the pudding by stabilizing the eggs during cooking and thickens the mixture as it cools.
Eggs: You’ll need a total of three eggs—two whole eggs plus one additional egg yolk—for richness and texture.
Milk: Whole milk is preferred for the richest, creamiest pudding. You can use lower-fat options like 2% or 1%, but note that skim milk may alter the consistency and flavor slightly.
Butter: Chilled, unsalted butter adds a silky finish. Cut it into cubes before adding. If the butter sticks to your knife, dust it lightly with flour.
How to Make Vanilla Pudding
Making your own vanilla pudding is straightforward and rewarding. This dessert is loved for its smooth, creamy texture and sweet flavor. This recipe yields about 2½ cups of pudding.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix ¾ cup granulated sugar (150g), 3 tablespoons cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.
Add Eggs:
Whisk in 2 large eggs and 1 large egg yolk until well combined.
Incorporate Milk:
Gradually add 2 cups whole milk (490g), whisking continuously for about 30 seconds to ensure a smooth mixture.
Cook the Mixture:
Pour the mixture into a saucepan.
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens, approximately 10-15 minutes.
Add Butter and Vanilla:
Remove from heat.
Whisk in 2 tablespoons chilled, cubed unsalted butter, adding one cube at a time until fully melted.
Stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor.
Chill the Pudding:
Transfer the pudding to a bowl.
Cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Serve:
Once chilled, serve the pudding as is or topped with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
How Long Does Vanilla Pudding Last?
Store your vanilla pudding in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for about one week. For convenience, divide it into individual containers for easy snacking or packed lunches. While you can freeze pudding for up to three months, be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 cups whole milk (490 grams)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped topping, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and kosher salt.
Add Eggs:
Whisk in the 2 large eggs and 1 large egg yolk until the mixture is smooth.
Combine with Milk:
Gradually whisk in the whole milk (490 grams), continuing to whisk for about 30 seconds to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Cook the Pudding Base:
Transfer the mixture to a saucepan.
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or spoon.
Continue cooking until the pudding thickens, which should take approximately 10-15 minutes.
Incorporate Butter and Vanilla:
Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Add the unsalted butter cubes one at a time, whisking until each piece is fully melted before adding the next.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Chill:
Pour the pudding into a serving bowl or individual containers.
Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to set.
Serve:
Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap.
Serve the pudding as is or top with a dollop of whipped topping, if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Pudding as a delightful dessert or snack anytime!
