Ah, the classic comfort food – creamy vanilla pudding. There’s nothing quite like it! Whether you’re a nostalgic adult looking for a sweet treat from your childhood or just a lover of all things dessert, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering creamy vanilla pudding recipes that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From classic and simple to creative and decadent, these puddings are perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of creamy vanilla puddings, exploring a variety of flavors, textures, and presentation styles. Whether you’re looking for a comforting cup of pudding to warm your heart or an impressive showstopper dessert to wow your guests, you’ve come to the right place!
Stay tuned for some seriously delicious and easy-to-make recipes that will make you fall in love with vanilla pudding all over again.
Classic Vanilla Bean Pudding
A creamy and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic recipe showcases the simplicity of vanilla bean flavor.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground vanilla bean (or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla powder)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Add egg yolks one at a time, whisking until smooth after each addition.
4. Whisk in vanilla extract and ground vanilla bean (or vanilla powder).
5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Remove from heat; stir in melted butter.
7. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes (including cooling time)
Silky Smooth Vanilla Custard Pudding
This classic dessert recipe yields a creamy and smooth vanilla pudding that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to chill and set.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Homemade Vanilla Pudding with Whipped Cream
This classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser, made with just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this homemade vanilla pudding topped with whipped cream is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for whipped cream)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Let cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
6. Just before serving, whip heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Top cooled pudding with whipped cream and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Baked Vanilla Pudding with Caramel Drizzle
Baked Vanilla Pudding with Caramel Drizzle Recipe
Treat your family and friends to a creamy, dreamy dessert with this easy-to-make baked vanilla pudding topped with a rich caramel drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– Caramel drizzle (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
4. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Drizzle with caramel sauce and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Vanilla Pudding with Coconut Milk
This recipe yields a rich and creamy pudding that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without compromising on your vegan lifestyle. With the use of coconut milk, this pudding is also dairy-free and gluten-free.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together coconut milk, non-dairy milk, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt, vanilla extract, and maple syrup.
5. Pour into individual serving cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
French Vanilla Pudding with Bourbon Infusion
Rich and creamy French vanilla pudding gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of bourbon infusion. Perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious dessert, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Jameson)
– Whipped cream and toasted almonds for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon whiskey. Strain into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving. If desired, top with whipped cream and toasted almonds.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chocolate Swirl Vanilla Pudding
This decadent pudding combines the velvety smoothness of vanilla with the intense richness of dark chocolate, creating a swirl of flavors that will delight your taste buds. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this show-stopping dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Stir in the dark chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream and chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Vanilla Pudding Parfait with Fresh Berries
A classic dessert gets a refreshing twist with this simple recipe featuring creamy vanilla pudding, sweet fresh berries, and crunchy cookie crunch. Perfect for warm weather or any time you need a light and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 package (12-16 cookies) wafers, crushed
– Fresh berries of your choice (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Layer pudding, crushed wafers, and fresh berries in small glasses or parfait dishes. Repeat layers two more times, ending with whipped cream or additional berries.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spiced Vanilla Pudding with Cinnamon
Elevate your dessert game with this comforting spiced vanilla pudding infused with the warmth of cinnamon. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cinnamon.
4. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens, about 10 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Vanilla Pudding Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
This classic dessert combines a creamy vanilla pudding with a crunchy graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the pudding:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool completely.
4. In a large saucepan, combine pudding ingredients. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour into cooled pie crust.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Layered Vanilla Pudding and Banana Dessert
Elevate your dessert game with this simple yet impressive layered treat featuring creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and a crunchy cookie crust. Perfect for potlucks or special occasions!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup cookie crumbs (e.g., chocolate sandwich cookies or wafers)
– Whipped cream and additional banana slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat; whisk in heavy cream, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour pudding mixture into prepared baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Arrange banana slices on top of pudding. Sprinkle with cookie crumbs.
6. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream and additional banana slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (for assembling the dessert)
Vanilla Pudding with Toasted Almonds
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy vanilla pudding infused with the nutty flavor of toasted almonds. This simple yet indulgent treat is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds (see toasting instructions below)
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Add egg yolks and whisk until smooth.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream.
6. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top.
Toasting Almonds:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Spread almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
4. Let cool before using.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Pudding Cheesecake Fusion
A creamy and rich dessert that combines the best of both worlds – vanilla pudding and cheesecake. This fusion is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add granulated sugar and mix until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan. Top with the vanilla pudding mixture.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Vanilla Pudding with Raspberry Coulis
This classic dessert combines creamy vanilla pudding with a sweet and tangy raspberry coulis, perfect for warm weather or any time you want a refreshing treat. With just a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
For the Vanilla Pudding:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Raspberry Coulis:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, puree raspberries with sugar and water until smooth.
6. Serve chilled pudding topped with raspberry coulis.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Pudding Trifle with Pound Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this classic vanilla pudding trifle layered with moist pound cake, a perfect combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package vanilla pudding mix
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 pound pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
– Fresh berries or whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pudding mix, milk, heavy cream, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add softened butter to the pudding mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Cut pound cake into 1-inch cubes and place half of them in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
4. Pour half of the pudding mixture over the cake, followed by another layer of cake.
5. Repeat steps 3-4, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
7. Garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required; assemble and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Vanilla Pudding with Honey and Lavender
This creamy pudding is infused with the sweetness of honey and the subtle charm of lavender, creating a comforting dessert perfect for any time of day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this soothing treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, honey, and lavender buds. Let steep for 10-15 minutes, or until flavors have melded together.
5. Strain pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Vanilla Pudding Icebox Cake
A classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, this Vanilla Pudding Icebox Cake is a refreshing twist on traditional pudding. With its creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and melted butter until sugar is dissolved.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, dip each ladyfinger into the pudding mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble the cake by creating layers of ladyfingers and pudding in a large bowl or individual glasses.
6. Top with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time and chilling until ready to serve.
Vanilla Pudding with Salted Caramel Topping
A rich and creamy vanilla pudding gets a sweet and salty twist with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel topping.
Ingredients:
For the Vanilla Pudding:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel Topping:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in egg yolks until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into 6-8 ramekins or small cups. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
5. For the caramel topping, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown (about 10 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt.
7. Drizzle warm caramel topping over cooled pudding. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes for pudding, 10 minutes for caramel topping.
Vanilla Pudding Mousse with Dark Chocolate Shavings
A light and airy vanilla pudding mousse is elevated by the richness of dark chocolate shavings, making for a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Fresh whipped cream and additional dark chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Spoon the chilled pudding mixture into individual serving cups. Top with melted dark chocolate and garnish with fresh whipped cream and additional dark chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (as this is a refrigerator-set dessert)
Vanilla Pudding with Pistachio Crumble
This classic dessert gets a delightful twist with the addition of a crunchy pistachio crumble topping, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Rich and creamy vanilla pudding is elevated by the nutty flavor and satisfying texture of the crumble.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Pistachio Crumble (recipe below)
Pistachio Crumble:
– 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and melted butter.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and a pinch of salt.
6. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm pudding mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
7. Pour the pudding mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Top with Pistachio Crumble (recipe above).
9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy vanilla pudding delights! This collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes offers something for everyone. From classic and silky smooth puddings to innovative fusion desserts like cheesecake and banana, there’s a treat to satisfy every sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of bourbon-infused flavors or prefer your puddings vegan-friendly with coconut milk, this array of vanilla pudding creations is sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and treat yourself (and others) to a delightful dessert experience!
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