Description
A creamy and comforting homemade vanilla pudding made on the stovetop, topped with fresh vibrant fruits like strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, or mango. This classic American dessert is smooth, rich in vanilla flavor, and perfect for a light, refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Fruit Topping
- 2 cups fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, or mango)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt thoroughly to combine evenly.
- Add milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, ensuring a smooth custard base.
- Cook pudding base: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly, cooking until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Temper egg yolks: In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot pudding mixture into the yolks to temper them and prevent curdling.
- Combine yolks with pudding: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan while whisking constantly to incorporate smoothly.
- Finish cooking: Continue to cook the pudding for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until thick and smooth.
- Add butter and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully melted and blended.
- Chill pudding: Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Serve: Before serving, top the chilled pudding generously with fresh fruit and garnish with mint leaves if desired.
Notes
- For dairy-free pudding, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use plant-based butter.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding mix for a warm, spicy twist on classic vanilla.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
