Description
This Homemade Butterscotch Pudding recipe offers a rich, creamy dessert with deep caramel flavors from brown and granulated sugars melted in butter. Perfectly thickened with cornstarch and enhanced with vanilla extract, this pudding is a delightful treat that can be prepared quickly on the stovetop and served chilled.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
Dairy
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients for easy access during cooking to streamline the process.
- Melt Butter and Sugars: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugar, stirring occasionally until the mixture is bubbly and fragrant, releasing the signature butterscotch aroma.
- Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream into the melted butter and sugars, ensuring the mixture stays smooth without lumps forming.
- Mix Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and salt with a splash of cold milk, mixing thoroughly. Add this slurry back into the warm milk mixture while continuously stirring vigorously to prevent clumping.
- Cook Until Thickened: Increase the heat to medium and cook the mixture, stirring constantly for about 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens to a pudding consistency.
- Finish and Cool: Remove the saucepan from heat, stir in the pure vanilla extract for flavor depth, then pour the pudding into serving bowls. Allow it to cool at room temperature before refrigerating to set fully.
Notes
- Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest texture; low-fat substitutions will affect richness.
- Stir constantly during thickening to prevent the pudding from burning or developing lumps.
- For a smoother pudding, strain before chilling if desired.
- Pudding can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, covered.
- Serve chilled, optionally topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
