Homemade Vanilla Pudding
Homemade Vanilla Pudding
There is nothing quite like a bowl of homemade vanilla pudding—smooth, creamy, simple, and comforting in the best way. This recipe comes together with just a handful of pantry staples and tastes so much better than anything from a box. It’s perfect for an easy dessert, layering in parfaits, spooning into pies, or enjoying warm right off the stove.
If you’ve never made pudding from scratch, you’ll love how quick and reliable this recipe is. Everything cooks in one saucepan, thickens beautifully, and chills into the most silky, dreamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples you always have on hand.
- No instant mix needed – Rich, creamy, and homemade from start to finish.
- Versatile – Enjoy on its own or use in pies, trifles, parfaits, and layered desserts.
- Quick – Ready in minutes and chills beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon flour
- ½ cup sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Make sure there are no lumps—this helps the pudding thicken smoothly.
2. Add the Milk
Slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
3. Heat Until Thickened
Turn the heat to medium and cook, whisking constantly. Allow the mixture to bubble and slowly come to a gentle boil. Continue whisking until it thickens into a pudding consistency—this usually takes a few minutes.
4. Add Butter & Vanilla
Remove from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. The butter makes the pudding silky and rich.
5. Chill Until Set
Pour the pudding into a small dish or individual cups. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator until cold and fully set.
Jennie’s Thoughts
This homemade vanilla pudding is one of those recipes that reminds me how magical simple ingredients can be. It turns out so creamy and delicious every single time.
I love making this for an easy dessert, but it’s also perfect for my trifle bowls, cream pies, or whenever I need a quick pudding layer for a recipe on my blog.
It’s warm and cozy when served right off the stove, but after a chill in the fridge, it becomes sweet, silky, and spoon-perfect. It’s honestly one of those recipes everyone should keep in their back pocket.
Serving Ideas
- Top with whipped cream and fresh berries
- Spoon into mini jars for a cute dessert
- Add crushed vanilla wafers for a homemade pudding cup
- Layer in parfaits or banana pudding
- Use as a filling for cakes or cream puffs
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep plastic wrap pressed directly on top to prevent a skin from forming.
