Vanilla Pudding For One

homemade vanilla pudding in a dessert bowl topped with whipped cream, berries, and fresh mint

4.86 from 21 votes

Creamy, homemade vanilla pudding made from scratch with simple ingredients. This single serving recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick dessert.

Prep Time5

Cook Time20

Cool20

Total Time45

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Keyword: dessert, gluten free pudding, homemade vanilla pudding, pudding, vanilla pudding

Servings: serving

Author: Joanie Zisk

Equipment

1-quart saucepan

Ingredients

½ cup whole milk
2 tablespoons sugar
⅛ teaspoon salt
¼ cup heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ tablespoon butter
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
optional toppings: whipped cream and fresh berries

US - Metric

Instructions

In a 1-quart saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the milk with the sugar and salt. Stir occasionally until the milk begins to steam, about 5 minutes.
While the milk heats, whisk the heavy cream and cornstarch together in a small bowl until smooth. Do not add cornstarch directly to the milk, as it may clump.
Slowly pour the slurry into the warm milk, stirring as you pour. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to simmer, about 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat and stir constantly for about 5 minutes, until the pudding thickens.
Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until the butter melts completely.
Let the pudding cool slightly, then transfer to a small ramekin or dessert bowl. Cover and refrigerate until fully chilled.

Video

Notes

Whisk Until Smooth: Always whisk the cornstarch and cream together until completely smooth before adding to the pot. This helps prevent lumps.
Add Flavor Off Heat: Stir in the butter and vanilla after removing the pudding from the heat to preserve flavor and richness.
Topping Ideas: Top with homemade whipped cream, fresh fruit, crushed small batch butter cookies, or chopped nuts.
Use as a Base: This pudding is perfect for layered desserts like a mini trifle, single serve banana pudding or banana cream pie for one.

If doubling the recipe, use a 2-quart saucepan.

Nutrition

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