What thickens this butterscotch dessert?

Cornstarch combined with egg yolks creates a smooth, creamy texture by gently thickening the mixture as it cooks.

Can I use a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, substituting coconut milk works, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly, giving a different richness.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to develop the proper texture and allow flavors to meld.

Cover the surface tightly with plastic wrap so it touches the custard, preventing a skin from forming during chilling.

Sprinkling flaky sea salt or adding whipped cream before serving can elevate the rich caramel notes and creaminess.

Yes, it contains dairy and eggs but no meat products, making it appropriate for a vegetarian diet.

A rich and creamy pudding infused with deep caramel flavors, perfect for a nostalgic dessert.

I remember making this pudding for my family gatherings, and it always brings back warm, sweet memories.

Dairy: 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Sugars: 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Thickeners: 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon salt
Eggs: 2 large egg yolks
Flavorings: 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Step 1:: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add both sugars and salt, stirring until the mixture is smooth and bubbling about 2 minutes.
Step 2:: Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Heat until steaming but do not boil.
Step 3:: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth.
Step 4:: Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
Step 5:: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
Step 6:: Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens and begins to bubble about 3 5 minutes.
Step 7:: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 8:: Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
Step 9:: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Serve cold.

My family enjoys this pudding as a special treat, especially when shared during holidays.

Keep pudding refrigerated up to 3 days for best quality and flavor.

Medium saucepan, whisk, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, plastic wrap, serving dishes

Contains dairy (milk, cream, butter) and eggs. Check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.

Enjoy this comforting dessert chilled for the best butterscotch flavor and texture.

→ What thickens this butterscotch dessert?: Cornstarch combined with egg yolks creates a smooth, creamy texture by gently thickening the mixture as it cooks.
→ Can I use a dairy-free alternative?: Yes, substituting coconut milk works, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly, giving a different richness.
→ How long should the dessert chill before serving?: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to develop the proper texture and allow flavors to meld.
→ What is the best way to prevent a skin from forming?: Cover the surface tightly with plastic wrap so it touches the custard, preventing a skin from forming during chilling.
→ What enhances the flavor before serving?: Sprinkling flaky sea salt or adding whipped cream before serving can elevate the rich caramel notes and creaminess.
→ Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?: Yes, it contains dairy and eggs but no meat products, making it appropriate for a vegetarian diet.