Velvety Butterscotch Pudding Recipe: Sweet Comfort in a Bowl

Sweet memories dance through my kitchen whenever I whip up this classic butterscotch pudding recipe that connects generations.

Silky textures promise comfort in every spoonful.

Nostalgic flavors beckon with rich, caramel-like warmth that melts stress away.

Rich brown sugar transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dessert.

Grandmothers knew the magic of creating something spectacular from basic pantry staples.

Each creamy bite whispers stories of weekend gatherings and shared laughter.

Let’s dive into this delightful journey that turns ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

Variations on Classic Butterscotch Pudding

• Caramel Crunch Butterscotch: Sprinkle crushed toffee bits or caramelized pecans on top of the pudding for added texture and rich caramel flavor.
• Salted Butterscotch Elegance: Drizzle a light layer of sea salt caramel sauce over the chilled pudding to enhance the sweet and salty profile.
• Chocolate Butterscotch Fusion: Swirl melted dark chocolate through the pudding before chilling, creating a decadent chocolate-butterscotch combination.
• Spiced Butterscotch Charm: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cardamom to the pudding mixture for a warm, aromatic twist on the classic recipe.

Foods That Pair Well with Butterscotch Pudding

• Pair with Caramel Crunch Coffee: Brew a rich, medium-roast coffee with hints of caramel, complementing the butterscotch's deep sweetness and adding a warm, aromatic layer to the dessert experience.
• Serve with Toasted Pecan Garnish: Sprinkle freshly toasted, chopped pecans on top of the pudding to introduce a nutty crunch that enhances the butterscotch's creamy texture and adds delightful contrast.
• Match with Aged Tawny Port: Select a smooth, amber-colored port wine with notes of caramel and dried fruits, creating a luxurious pairing that elevates the pudding's rich butterscotch flavor profile.

Proper Storage for Butterscotch Pudding

Store leftovers in an airtight container with plastic wrap directly touching the pudding surface to prevent skin formation. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Transfer pudding to freezer-safe containers, leaving slight space for expansion. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before consuming.

Gently warm pudding in microwave using 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval to maintain smooth consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent texture separation.

After storage, stir pudding thoroughly to restore creamy texture. Add small splash of milk if pudding seems too thick when reheating.

FAQs

• Why is it called butterscotch pudding?

The name comes from the traditional ingredients of brown sugar and butter, which create a rich, caramel-like flavor characteristic of butterscotch.

• Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Whole milk provides the best creamy texture and rich flavor, but you can substitute with 2% milk, though the pudding might be slightly less creamy.

• Is tempering eggs necessary for this recipe?

Yes, tempering prevents eggs from scrambling and ensures a smooth, silky pudding texture by gradually raising the egg temperature.

• How can I tell if the pudding is the right consistency?

The pudding should coat the back of a spoon and leave a clear path when you run your finger through it, similar to a thick custard.

Why Butterscotch Pudding Is Such a Treat

• Craft With Ease: This butterscotch pudding recipe requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners who want to create a delicious dessert without complex techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: The rich, creamy texture and sweet butterscotch flavor appeal to all ages, transforming it into a nostalgic treat that brings families and friends together during gatherings.
• Quick Dessert Solution: Prepare this pudding with simple ingredients found in most kitchen pantries, allowing you to whip up a delightful dessert in under an hour with minimal cleanup required.
• Versatile Presentation: Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party or in a large bowl for casual family dessert, topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon to elevate its visual appeal.

Ingredients for Creamy Butterscotch Pudding

• Brown Sugar: Provides the signature rich, caramel-like flavor that defines butterscotch.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the pudding and create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall sweetness and balances the flavors.

• Whole Milk: Creates the creamy base and helps dissolve the dry ingredients smoothly.

• Egg Yolks: Add richness, depth, and help create a luxurious custard-like consistency.
• Butter: Contributes to the silky texture and adds extra butterscotch flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, aromatic background note to the pudding.

• Whipped Cream, Cinnamon: Offer a decorative and flavorful finish to the dessert.

How to Make Butterscotch Pudding

Step 1: Mix Dry Base

Grab a medium saucepan and whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt until they’re perfectly blended. This creates the flavor foundation for your creamy dessert.

Step 2: Create Smooth Liquid

Pour whole milk into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to avoid any pesky lumps. Heat the mixture over medium flame, stirring frequently until the liquid starts to thicken and bubble gently (around 5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Work Magic with Egg Yolks

Separately, beat egg yolks until silky smooth. Slowly stream a small portion of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking rapidly to prevent scrambling.

Carefully return the tempered yolk mixture back to the saucepan, continuing to cook and stir until the pudding reaches a luxurious custard consistency (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Enrich the Pudding

• Butter
• Vanilla extract

Blend until the mixture looks glossy and completely combined.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Transfer the pudding into serving dishes. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow complete cooling and setting.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Dish out the chilled butterscotch pudding.

• Whipped cream
• Sprinkle of cinnamon

Enjoy your homemade creamy delight!

Helpful Tips for Perfect Butterscotch Pudding

• Use dark brown sugar for deeper, richer butterscotch flavor and pure vanilla extract for authentic taste.
• Whisk continuously while heating and gradually add milk to ensure smooth, silky texture without any cornstarch clumps.
• Pour hot mixture slowly into egg yolks while whisking rapidly to prevent scrambling and create perfectly creamy consistency.
• Allow pudding to set completely in refrigerator for minimum 2 hours, which helps develop robust butterscotch flavor and thickens texture.
• Cover surface directly with plastic wrap to avoid skin formation and store in airtight container for up to 3 days in refrigerator.

Butterscotch Pudding Recipe

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4.9 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy butterscotch pudding transports dessert lovers to nostalgic comfort with its rich, silky texture. Smooth caramel notes and velvety consistency make this classic treat an irresistible indulgence you’ll savor down to the last spoonful.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups (652 ml) whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar, packed

Thickening Agents:

• 2 tablespoons (16 g) cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Combine the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan, ensuring a uniform mixture without clumps.
2. Slowly pour whole milk into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to create a smooth base. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until it begins to thicken and bubbles form around the edges (5-7 minutes).
3. Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl until completely smooth. Carefully stream a small portion of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, stirring vigorously to prevent curdling.
4. Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pudding reaches a thick, custard-like consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and incorporate butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture becomes glossy and completely smooth.
6. Transfer the pudding to individual serving dishes or a large bowl, ensuring an even distribution.
7. Press plastic wrap directly onto the pudding’s surface to prevent skin formation. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and set completely.
8. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of cinnamon before serving cold.

Notes

• Prevent lumpy pudding by whisking constantly while heating and using cornstarch to create smooth texture.
• Tempering eggs carefully ensures silky consistency without scrambling, so pour hot liquid gradually while stirring vigorously.
• Use dark brown sugar for deeper, richer butterscotch flavor and enhance sweetness with a pinch of sea salt.
• Make dairy-free version by substituting whole milk with coconut milk and using plant-based butter for creamy alternative.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 248
• Sugar: 37 g
• Sodium: 90 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 0.2 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 130 mg