Description
Homemade vanilla pudding is a creamy no bake dessert that you can make with 7 simple ingredients. So much better than boxed pudding mixes or pudding cups.
Ingredients
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg yolks, beaten
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 and 1/2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ice cubes (for water bath)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks until well blended. Whisk in the milk and heat over medium heat, stirring often, about 5-8 minutes.
- Once the mixture starts to bubble, turn the heat down to low and continue cooking until thickened, whisking often, about 1-2 minutes more. Note that pudding will be pourable but will continue to thicken more as it cools.
- Remove from heat and immediately whisk in the butter and vanilla, stirring until smooth.
- If you notice any lumps, pass the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve over a large heatproof bowl to remove any lumps. Skip this if you don’t notice any lumps.
- Prepare a large bowl with some water and ice to make an ice bath. Place the saucepan directly into the ice bath, stirring occasionally, until the pudding reaches room temperature, about 30 minutes.
- Cover and refrigerate until the pudding has chilled through completely, at least 4 hours (up to 2 days).
Notes
How to prevent lumps: To avoid lumping, ensure that your egg yolks and dry ingredients are blended well before adding any milk. Then, add the milk slowly, making sure to fully incorporate it before adding more milk. This method can help you avoid lumps and skip step four!
How to store pudding: Homemade pudding will last for up to one week days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Try to avoid leaving your pudding out at room temperature for more than 1-2 hours.
How to freeze pudding: You can freeze homemade pudding in a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months in the freezer. The consistency will turn into a rich and creamy ice cream. You can enjoy it frozen or allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American