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Butterscotch Pudding Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 54 reviews

This rich and creamy Butterscotch Pudding recipe features a smooth blend of dark brown sugar, whole milk, and egg yolks cooked to perfection on the stovetop. Enhanced with butter and vanilla extract, this dessert is a delightful treat that sets beautifully in the refrigerator for a luscious finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt, whisking together until evenly mixed.
  2. Incorporate milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk to the dry mixture, ensuring no lumps form.
  3. Cook mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly with a whisk as the mixture heats. Continue cooking until it thickens and reaches a gentle boil.
  4. Temper egg yolks: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly pour approximately 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
  5. Combine yolks and pudding base: Return the tempered egg yolks to the saucepan and whisk quickly to mix thoroughly.
  6. Thicken pudding: Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat for about one more minute, stirring constantly until the pudding becomes smooth and thickened.
  7. Add butter and vanilla: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated and silky.
  8. Chill pudding: Pour the pudding into a bowl or individual serving dishes. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set and chilled.

Notes

  • Ensure constant stirring during cooking to prevent lumps and scorching at the bottom of the pan.
  • Tempering the yolks is essential to avoid scrambling when adding the hot liquid.
  • Covering the pudding surface with plastic wrap helps maintain a smooth texture by preventing skin formation.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and butter with coconut milk and vegan butter alternatives.
  • Leftover pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Butterscotch pudding recipe, creamy pudding, stovetop pudding, homemade butterscotch dessert, easy pudding dessert