This quick and comforting vanilla pudding is smooth, rich, and made with simple pantry ingredients. Ready in just five minutes, it delivers classic homemade flavor with a silky texture—perfect for a fast dessert, late-night craving, or an elegant base for layered treats.
Servings & Timing
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 3–5 minutes
Total Time: About 5 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a small saucepan (off heat), whisk together the cornstarch, sugar, and salt until evenly combined. This prevents clumping when liquids are added.
Step 2: Add the Milk and Cream
Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until the mixture is completely smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Cook Until Thickened
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken—about 3–5 minutes.
Once it reaches a pudding-like consistency and coats the back of a spoon, remove from heat.
Step 4: Add Vanilla
Stir in the vanilla extract immediately after removing from heat. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavor.
Step 5: Serve or Chill
Serve warm for a comforting dessert, or pour into bowls and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes for a chilled pudding.
Additional Notes
- Constant whisking is essential to prevent scorching.
- The pudding will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
- For extra smooth texture, whisk vigorously during the final minute of cooking.
Dietary Info (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 9g
- Protein: 3g
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Whisk cornstarch, sugar, and salt
Step 2: Add milk and cream, whisk smooth
Step 3: Cook while whisking until thick
Step 4: Remove from heat and add vanilla
Step 5: Serve warm or chill
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Whole Milk
- Provides body and creaminess
- Can substitute 2% milk, texture will be slightly thinner
Heavy Cream
- Adds richness and silkiness
- Can replace with more milk for lighter pudding
Cornstarch
- Thickening agent
- Arrowroot starch works as a 1:1 substitute
Sugar
- Adjust to taste
- Honey or maple syrup can be used (reduce milk slightly)
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Chocolate Pudding
- Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder with dry ingredients
Vanilla Bean
- Replace extract with vanilla bean paste
Dessert Cups
- Layer with crushed cookies or fruit
Serving Ideas
- Top with whipped cream
- Add fresh berries
- Serve over cake or pancakes
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerator
- Store covered for up to 3 days
- Press plastic wrap directly onto surface to prevent skin
Reheating
- Warm gently on stovetop or microwave, whisking well
FAQs
Q: Why is my pudding lumpy?
A: Heat was too high or mixture wasn’t whisked constantly.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes—use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk with added cream substitute.
Q: Will it thicken as it cools?
A: Yes, pudding firms slightly once chilled.
Optional Personal Story
This 5-minute vanilla pudding is my go-to when I want something homemade but don’t want to wait. It tastes like the classic stovetop pudding many of us grew up with—simple, warm, and comforting, without any packaged mix.
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