Easy single-serving vanilla pudding recipe, perfect for quick homemade desserts. This creamy pudding is made with milk, heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch, then flavored with vanilla extract for a rich, smooth texture. Ideal for one person, it can be chilled and served with whipped cream, fresh berries, or chocolate toppings. Quick, simple, and comforting, this homemade pudding is ready in under 20 minutes.
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, fresh berries
Instructions
- In a 1-quart saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the milk with sugar and salt. Stir occasionally until the milk is steaming, about 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Do not add cornstarch directly to the milk to prevent clumping.
- Gradually pour the cream-cornstarch mixture into the warm milk, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the mixture begins to simmer, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir constantly for another 5 minutes, until the pudding thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until fully incorporated.
- Allow the pudding to cool slightly, then transfer to a small ramekin or dessert bowl. Cover and refrigerate until fully chilled.
- Serve with optional toppings such as whipped cream or fresh berries.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect single-serving dessert for one person
- Creamy, smooth texture with rich vanilla flavor
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- No complicated steps—beginner-friendly
Tips
- Whisk the cornstarch and cream thoroughly to prevent lumps
- Stir constantly when thickening to avoid burning
- Let the pudding cool slightly before refrigerating to improve texture
- Adjust sugar according to personal taste
Variations and Substitutions
- Use almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor
- Substitute vanilla extract with almond or coconut extract for a different twist
- Top with chocolate shavings, caramel sauce, or nuts instead of berries
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Yes, but the pudding may be slightly less creamy.
Why is my pudding lumpy?
Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the cream before adding it to the milk, and stir constantly while cooking.
Serving
Serve chilled in a ramekin or small dessert bowl. Garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Suggestions
- Pair with a cookie or biscuit on the side for added texture
- Layer pudding with fruit for a simple parfait
- Sprinkle with cinnamon or cocoa powder for a decorative finish
Vanilla Pudding for One
1
servings5
minutes20
minutesIngredients
½ cup whole milk
2 tablespoons 2 sugar
⅛ teaspoon salt
¼ cup heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon 1 cornstarch
½ tablespoon butter
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional toppings: whipped cream, fresh berries
Directions
- In a 1-quart saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the milk with sugar and salt. Stir occasionally until the milk is steaming, about 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Do not add cornstarch directly to the milk to prevent clumping.
- Gradually pour the cream-cornstarch mixture into the warm milk, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the mixture begins to simmer, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir constantly for another 5 minutes, until the pudding thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until fully incorporated.
- Allow the pudding to cool slightly, then transfer to a small ramekin or dessert bowl. Cover and refrigerate until fully chilled.
- Serve with optional toppings such as whipped cream or fresh berries.
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