Simple Vanilla Pudding
Creamy vanilla pudding with rich vanilla flavor, smooth texture, and versatile serving options, perfect for a comforting dessert or snack suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat 1 1/2 cups of milk and sugar to simmer over low heat.
- Mix 1/2 cup of milk and cornstarch in a cup, then stir into the hot milk.
- Stir constantly over medium heat until thickened and starting to boil, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir about 1/2 cup of hot mixture into the well-beaten eggs.
- Dribble the egg mixture back into the pan and stir over low heat for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Serve warm or chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whole milk instead of low-fat or skim. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, consider increasing the sugar slightly or adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid lumps. If you're out of cornstarch, you can substitute with an equal amount of flour, but the texture may differ slightly. This pudding pairs beautifully with Aunt Nema'S Cream Candy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the vanilla pudding in individual bowls or glasses for a delightful presentation. Top with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. It can also be layered with cookies for a simple parfait. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Cream Cheese And Pineapple Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pudding on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. You can also enjoy it cold straight from the fridge, which makes it a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Vanilla Pudding contains roughly 313 calories, with 4g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can use non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk, but be aware that the flavor and texture may vary slightly. Make sure to choose a sweetened variety to maintain the sweetness of the pudding, and check the packaging for any additional thickening agents.
How can I make this pudding thicker?
If you prefer a thicker pudding, you can increase the amount of cornstarch to 4 tablespoons. Alternatively, let the pudding cool longer before serving, as it will continue to thicken as it sets. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add flavors other than vanilla?
Absolutely! You can infuse the pudding with other flavors by adding ingredients like cocoa powder for chocolate pudding or almond extract for a nutty twist. Just keep the vanilla extract in the recipe for a well-rounded flavor base.
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).