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!

Nutriscore Rating: 58/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

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)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt until combined. Make sure there are no lumps.

Step 2

Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

Return the egg mixture to the saucepan, still whisking, and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pudding thickens further.

Step 6

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 7

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.

Step 8

For the caramel variation: Stir in caramel sauce after the pudding has thickened in step 5.

Step 9

For the mocha variation: Add espresso powder along with the sugar in step 1, and optionally stir in some melted chocolate after cooking.

Step 10

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.

Step 11

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

Serving size	(1109.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2019.2

Total Fat 88.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 47.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.8g
Cholesterol 701.8mg	0%
Sodium 999.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 275.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.8g	0%
Total Sugars 221.8g
Protein 39.1g	0%

Vitamin D 376.1IU	0%
Calcium 1042.9mg	0%
Iron 7.5mg	0%
Potassium 1774.4mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 38.9%

Protein: 7.6%

Carbs: 53.5%