Homemade Pudding with Gourmet Variations
Indulge in the creamy decadence of Homemade Pudding with Gourmet Variations—a versatile and easy-to-make dessert that transforms simple pantry staples into an irresistible treat. This silky pudding starts with a base of whole milk, sugar, and egg yolks, thickened to perfection with cornstarch for a luscious texture. Elevate the classic vanilla pudding with gourmet twists, such as rich chocolate, buttery caramel, or bold mocha, using optional mix-ins like cocoa powder, chopped chocolate, or espresso powder. Ready in just 25 minutes, this customizable recipe is perfect for crafting a dessert that suits any craving or occasion. Serve chilled with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of extra sauce, for a showstopping finish. Ideal for dessert lovers, this quick-to-make pudding is creamy, indulgent, and endlessly adaptable!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 cups whole milk
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate variation)
- 3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (optional, for chocolate variation)
- 0.25 cup caramel sauce (optional, for caramel variation)
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, for mocha variation)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt until combined. Make sure there are no lumps.
Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and comes to a gentle boil. This will take about 7-10 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly, to temper the eggs.
Return the egg mixture to the saucepan, still whisking, and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pudding thickens further.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
For the chocolate variation: Whisk in cocoa powder along with the sugar in step 1, or stir in chopped chocolate after removing the pudding from heat until fully melted.
For the caramel variation: Stir in caramel sauce after the pudding has thickened in step 5.
For the mocha variation: Add espresso powder along with the sugar in step 1, and optionally stir in some melted chocolate after cooking.
Transfer the pudding to individual serving bowls or a large bowl. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled. Serve as-is or garnish with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of additional sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2019 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 88.9 g | 114% | |
| Saturated Fat | 47.8 g | 239% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 702 mg | 234% | |
| Sodium | 999 mg | 43% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 275.6 g | 100% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.8 g | 46% | |
| Total Sugars | 221.8 g | ||
| Protein | 39.1 g | 78% | |
| Vitamin D | 9.4 mcg | 47% | |
| Calcium | 1043 mg | 80% | |
| Iron | 7.5 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 1774 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
