Classic Butterscotch Pudding

A silky, rich pudding featuring deep caramel notes and a creamy texture. Perfect for a nostalgic dessert or an elegant finish to any meal.

This classic butterscotch pudding has been a family favorite for years and always brings back warm memories of cozy evenings.

Ingredients

• Dairy: 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Sweeteners: 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Thickeners: 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• Flavorings: 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Eggs: 3 large egg yolks

Instructions

Step 1:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar and granulated sugar cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbling and smells nutty (about 2 minutes).

Step 2:

Carefully whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is steaming (do not boil).

Step 3:

In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks until smooth.

Step 4:

Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

Step 5:

Gradually whisk the tempered eggs back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.

Step 6:

Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the pudding thickens and starts to bubble (about 3 5 minutes). Remove from heat.

Step 7:

Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 8:

Pour the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.

Step 9:

Divide the pudding among four serving dishes. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of each pudding to prevent a skin from forming.

Step 10:

Chill for at least 2 hours, or until set. Serve cold.

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Making this pudding always reminds me of sharing desserts with my family on chilly evenings, filled with warmth and laughter.

Notes

For extra richness, use dark brown sugar. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for added flavor. Substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free version note will affect flavor and texture.

Required Tools

Medium saucepan, whisk, mixing bowl, fine-mesh sieve, measuring cups and spoons, plastic wrap

Allergen Information

Contains Milk, Eggs. May contain traces of gluten depending on cornstarch brand check labels if gluten-sensitive.

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This pudding is best served chilled with a light topping, perfect for both casual and elegant occasions.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent lumps from forming?

Slowly whisking the egg yolk mixture into the hot milk mixture and straining the finished custard through a fine mesh sieve helps ensure a smooth texture.

→ Can I substitute dairy ingredients?

Using coconut milk instead of dairy milk and cream creates a dairy-free alternative, though it may alter the texture and flavor slightly.

→ What is the purpose of chilling?

Chilling allows the custard to thicken fully and develop a silky, set texture that's ideal for serving cold.

→ How do brown sugars affect the flavor?

Light brown sugar adds a mild caramel flavor, while dark brown sugar intensifies the richness and depth of butterscotch notes.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, the dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for at least two hours, making it convenient for gatherings or meal planning.

→ What tools are essential for making this?

A saucepan for cooking, a whisk for smooth blending, a mixing bowl, and a fine-mesh sieve to remove lumps are key tools.