Simply Wafa
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Homemade Vanilla Pudding

By Wafa

Updated June 25, 2026

Total time
15 min
Prep time
5 min
Cook time
10 min
Difficulty
Easy
Rating
5.0 (2)
Reviews
2 reviews

Discover the classic recipe for vanilla pudding, a sweet and comforting treat. Simple and quick to prepare, this creamy homemade dessert is a much better alternative to store-bought versions.

Ingredients

Serves : 4 servings

  • 500 ml milk
  • 30 g cornstarch
  • 40 g sugar
  • 1 vanilla bean

Instructions

Step 1

Dilute the cornstarch in a small bowl with a little milk (cold or room temperature), whisking well to avoid any lumps. (This is the key step for a smooth texture.)

Step 2

In a saucepan, heat the remaining milk with the sugar and vanilla (scraped seeds or the whole bean). Bring to a boil.

Step 3

Slowly pour the cornstarch/milk mixture into the boiling pan, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.

Step 4

Remove from heat as soon as the texture is creamy and pour immediately into ramekins. (Cover the pots to prevent a skin from forming on top.)

Step 5

Let cool to room temperature, then place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Tips

  • Serve with a red berry coulis for a touch of acidity.
  • Add praline crunch or crumbled shortbread cookies for extra texture.
  • Do not replace the cornstarch with flour, as the texture will not be the same.

Substitutions

  • Vanilla bean → Vanilla sugar — Use 2 to 3 packets and reduce the amount of white sugar accordingly.

Nutrition

Calories
118
Protein
4 g
Carbs
19 g
Fat
4 g

Approximate values per 100 g; they vary with ingredients and preparation.

Frequently asked questions

What type of milk is best suited for this recipe?

You can use whole milk for a richer cream, or semi-skimmed milk for a lighter version (which is what I personally use). Plant-based milks also work, but may slightly alter the taste and texture.

How do I get a thicker or thinner consistency? 🥐

For a thicker pudding, slightly increase the amount of cornstarch. For a thinner texture, decrease the cornstarch or add a little more milk. It's up to you to find your preferred consistency.

How do I prevent lumps from forming in the pudding?

Make sure to dissolve the cornstarch in a little cold or room-temperature milk before adding it to the hot milk, and whisk constantly while adding to avoid lumps. This step is very important. 🥣

Can I use vanilla sugar instead of a vanilla bean?

Yes, you can use vanilla sugar instead of a vanilla bean. Use 2 or 3 packets of vanilla sugar and reduce the amount of regular sugar in your recipe accordingly.

How long does the pudding keep in the fridge?

The vanilla pudding can generally be stored for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Reviews

5.0 (2)
4/12/2026
4/12/2026

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