Classic vanilla pudding

Name: Classic vanilla pudding
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Whole milk 1 ½ cup; Fresh liquid cream 0.8 cup; Sugar ½ cup; Egg yolks (approximately 4) 2.6 oz; Cornstarch 0.7 cup; Vanilla bean 1; Raspberries 36

it es fr de br

Gluten Free
Vegetarian

Difficulty: Easy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Serving: 4
Cost: Low
Note + the time to set in the refrigerator (at least 6 h)

PRESENTATION

There's just something about a vanilla pudding recipe that really hits the spot. I mean, after a long day, nothing beats sinking your spoon into a bowl of this homemade vanilla pudding. It’s soft and creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness. Kind of brings back memories, right? Those simpler times—maybe those afternoons at grandma’s house or school lunches with tiny pudding cups. This easy vanilla pudding is pretty special because it's made from scratch. And here's the thing, with basic ingredients you probably already have. No gelatin, just a slow, gentle cook that turns everyday items into something smooth and tender. Letting it chill in the fridge for hours—seriously good—means every bite stays cool and moist, so, so different from store-bought mixes.

Across the U.S., this classic vanilla pudding is a staple at family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and even birthday parties. And you know what? It often comes topped with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of crushed cookies. Adding fresh raspberries takes it up a notch, giving it a tiny hint of tangy flavor that complements the sweet, mellow taste of the pudding itself. People love experimenting with toppings—some go for whipped cream, others for a dusting of cinnamon—but the old-school, straight-up vanilla pudding recipe never loses its charm. It really doesn’t. While some might compare it to French custards or Spanish flan, this version is all about simplicity. Perfect for anyone craving a soft, comforting treat.

When you need a dessert that feels like home, this easy vanilla pudding always delivers. Its gentle but deep flavor and inviting texture make you forget how simple it is—really, really simple. That's the magic of a true homemade vanilla pudding—it brings everyone together, whether you’re five years old or fifty, and the memories come flooding back with every spoonful. Whether for a cozy night in or a lively potluck, this pudding is a heartwarming choice that keeps everyone coming back for more. Cannot go wrong with it.

How to prepare Classic vanilla pudding

To prepare the vanilla pudding, pour the cream 1 and the milk into a saucepan 2, then add the vanilla bean along with the seeds you scraped out with the tip of a knife 3. Bring the mixture to a boil over low heat.

In a separate bowl, add the egg yolks and sugar 4, mix with a whisk, and also add the cornstarch 5. Continue mixing with the whisk until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous mixture 6.

When the milk and cream are about to boil, remove the vanilla pod and pour in the yolk mixture while whisking 7. Continue stirring over low heat for a few minutes until the cream thickens 8. Take 4 glasses with a capacity of 6 oz each and fill them halfway with the obtained cream 9.

Add 4 raspberries to each glass 10, then cover with the rest of the mixture 11 and decorate as desired with the remaining raspberries 12. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge to set for at least 6 hours: your vanilla pudding is ready to be served!