Minute Butterscotch Pudding
A rich, creamy butterscotch pudding with deep caramel flavors, perfect for a quick dessert or sweet treat. Its smooth texture and warm brown sugar taste make it a delightful indulgence for all ages, especially when served chilled or warm. Easy to prepare with pantry staples.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix brown sugar, shortening, milk, and salt in a saucepan.
- Stir over low heat until shortening melts.
- Bring to a full, rolling boil, stirring constantly.
- Boil for 1 minute (220°).
- Remove from heat and beat until lukewarm (120°).
- Stir in vanilla.
- Continue beating until a smooth spreading consistency.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter can be a suitable substitute. Keep the heat low to prevent burning, and make sure to stir constantly once you reach a boil. This pudding can also be made with almond milk for a dairy-free option, making it versatile for various dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the butterscotch pudding warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with Amaretto Cake or can be used as a filling for desserts like 'Idiots Delight' Bars. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover butterscotch pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to restore its smooth texture. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may cause uneven heating and a change in consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Minute Butterscotch Pudding contains roughly 726 calories, with 0g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 505mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, butterscotch pudding can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Before serving, give it a good stir to restore its smooth texture.
How can I make this pudding thicker?
To achieve a thicker consistency, you can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold milk, then stir it into the pudding while it’s boiling. Cook for an additional minute to let it thicken.
What can I do if the pudding turns grainy?
If your pudding has a grainy texture, it may have cooked too long or at too high a heat. To salvage it, try blending it with an immersion blender until smooth, or whisk vigorously to break down the grains.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).