These Steamed Milk & Egg Pudding Cups are the kind of dessert that feels both nostalgic and luxuriously simple. Made from just a handful of pantry ingredients — milk, eggs, sugar, and raisins — this pudding is silky, lightly sweet, custardy, and irresistibly smooth. Each cup sets into a tender, creamy dessert that melts on the tongue with every bite.
Perfect for family gatherings, make-ahead desserts, meal prep treats, or a gentle, soothing dessert after dinner. No oven needed — just gentle steaming for that perfect soft-set texture.
Servings and Timing
Yield: 8–10 pudding cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes (steaming)
Chill Time: 1–2 hours (optional)
Total Time: About 35 minutes (plus chill time if desired)
Nutritional Info (Per Cup – Approximate)
(Will vary based on milk type and sugar amount.)
- Calories: 165
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 20g
Ingredients
Base Custard
- 4 cups whole milk (or evaporated milk for richer texture)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix-Ins
- ½ cup raisins (or chopped dates)
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom or nutmeg
- Sweetened condensed milk (replace some sugar for creaminess)
Tools You’ll Need
- Small cups or ramekins
- Steamer pot or large pot with lid
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Fine strainer (optional but recommended)
How to Make Steamed Milk & Egg Pudding Cups
1. Heat the Milk
Warm the milk in a pot until it’s just slightly warm, not boiling.
This helps dissolve sugar and blend smoothly with eggs.
2. Whisk the Eggs
In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs gently — avoid creating too many bubbles.
Add sugar and vanilla, whisking until just combined.
3. Combine
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
Strain the mixture through a fine sieve for the silkiest texture.
4. Add Raisins
Stir in the raisins evenly.
5. Fill the Cups
Pour the custard mixture into small glass cups or ramekins.
Cover each cup loosely with foil to prevent water droplets from ruining the surface.
6. Steam
Place cups into a steamer.
Steam on LOW heat for 20–25 minutes, or until:
- custard is set
- the center jiggles slightly when shaken
Avoid high heat — it causes bubbles and cracks.
7. Chill or Serve Warm
These pudding cups are wonderful:
- slightly warm
- completely chilled
- or at room temperature
Chill 1–2 hours if you want a firmer, creamier texture.
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
Milk Options
- Evaporated milk = richer custard
- Almond milk or oat milk = dairy-free
- Half & half = ultra-creamy
Sweetness Adjustments
- Use honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness
- Add condensed milk for a milkier flavor
Flavor Variations
- Add lemon zest
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg
- Add coconut milk (½ cup) for a tropical twist
- Replace raisins with chocolate chips
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- A drizzle of honey
- Fresh fruit
- Toasted nuts
- Cinnamon on top
- Whipped cream
Perfect for:
- Ramadan desserts
- Family dinners
- Kids’ snacks
- Breakfast-style custard bowls
- Potluck desserts
Tips for Best Results
- Keep heat LOW — high steam makes custard tough.
- Don’t overwhisk — too many bubbles create holes.
- Strain the mixture for a smooth, velvety finish.
- Cover cups to avoid moisture dripping on the surface.
- Chill fully for the best pudding texture.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator:
Lasts 3–4 days covered.
Freezer:
Not recommended — custard becomes grainy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is my custard full of holes?
It steamed too hot — reduce heat and cover cups.
Q: Can I use only egg yolks?
Yes — will be richer and silkier.
Q: Can I bake instead of steam?
Yes — bake in a water bath at 325°F for 25 minutes.
Q: Can I reduce sugar?
Yes — custard sets fine with even ⅓ cup sugar.
Conclusion
These Steamed Milk & Egg Pudding Cups are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a luxurious dessert. Silky, lightly sweet, and full of tender raisins, this comforting recipe is as easy as it is delicious — a pudding that brings warmth and nostalgia to every spoonful.
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Tried this recipe? Share your pudding cup photos or tag your creations on Pinterest — I’d love to see your silky, golden cups!
