Indulge in the rich and creamy world of vanilla puddings with these 18 decadent recipes! From classic comfort desserts to innovative twists, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or looking to mix things up with unique ingredients, our list has something for everyone.
Classic Vanilla Bean Pudding, Silky Smooth Vanilla Custard Pudding, and Bourbon Vanilla Pudding with Whipped Cream are just a few of the mouth-watering recipes that await. But why stop there? Why not try Vegan Coconut Vanilla Pudding or Chocolate Swirl Vanilla Pudding for a sweet surprise?
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamy vanilla puddings and explore some amazing variations on this timeless dessert. From simple to sophisticated, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.
Classic Vanilla Bean Pudding
A creamy and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic recipe showcases the simplicity and flavor of pure vanilla bean.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and nutmeg.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Whisk heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
9. Serve pudding warm, topped with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Silky Smooth Vanilla Custard Pudding
A classic dessert that’s sure to please, this silky smooth vanilla custard pudding is a crowd-pleaser. With its creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to the heat and cook, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the pudding thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bourbon Vanilla Pudding with Whipped Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy, indulgent pudding infused with the smooth flavors of bourbon and vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (optional)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt, vanilla extract, and bourbon whiskey (if using).
5. Strain into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Just before serving, top with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Coconut Vanilla Pudding
Vegan Coconut Vanilla Pudding Recipe
Creamy and Dreamy
This rich and creamy pudding is made with coconut milk, vanilla extract, and a touch of sweetness, perfect for a guilt-free dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and a splash of the coconut milk mixture (about 2 tablespoons) until smooth.
4. Add the cornstarch mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in toasted unsweetened shredded coconut.
7. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chocolate Swirl Vanilla Pudding
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and decadent chocolate swirl vanilla pudding, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Add in cocoa powder and whisk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
4. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
5. Let pudding cool slightly before whipping in egg yolks until smooth.
6. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Layered Vanilla Pudding Parfait with Berries
A classic dessert gets a colorful twist! This parfait combines creamy vanilla pudding, fresh berries, and crunchy cookies for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup crushed wafers or cookies (such as Nilla Wafers)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
3. Pour in pudding mix and whisk until smooth.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow pudding to set.
5. Just before serving, layer pudding, berries, and cookies in a tall glass or parfait dish.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is chilled.
Enjoy your layered vanilla pudding parfait with berries!
Baked Vanilla Pudding with Caramel Drizzle
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and creamy baked vanilla pudding topped with a velvety caramel drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Caramel Drizzle:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, and melted butter.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Pour the pudding mixture into 4 (6-ounce) ramekins or small baking dishes. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the caramel drizzle by combining corn syrup, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove pudding from oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle with warm caramel sauce and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chai-Spiced Vanilla Pudding
This comforting dessert combines the aromas of chai spices with the creaminess of vanilla pudding, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of black tea leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and vanilla extract.
5. If using tea leaves, steep them in the pudding for 2-3 minutes, then strain out the leaves.
6. Pour into individual serving cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Banana Foster Vanilla Pudding
Rich and creamy, this Banana Foster Vanilla Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic dessert. With the warm flavors of banana, brown sugar, and vanilla, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and add in vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
3. Arrange banana slices on top of the pudding mixture.
4. Dot with butter and sprinkle with brown sugar (about 1 tsp).
5. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sugar has dissolved and the bananas are tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional sliced bananas if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Vanilla Pudding
Warm up with a comforting bowl of pumpkin spice vanilla pudding, infused with the aromas of fall and the sweetness of vanilla. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/16 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, pumpkin pie spice, and pumpkin puree.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and let cool slightly.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish and refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Zest Vanilla Pudding
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing and creamy lemon zest vanilla pudding, infused with the warmth of vanilla and the brightness of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm pudding mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Vanilla Pudding
Experience the refreshing fusion of matcha green tea and vanilla flavors in this light and airy pudding.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons matcha powder
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, matcha powder, and sugar until well combined.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt until smooth.
4. Gradually pour the warm pudding mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
5. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
7. Strain the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Enjoy your Matcha Green Tea Vanilla Pudding chilled, garnished with whipped cream and a sprinkle of matcha powder if desired!
Salted Caramel Vanilla Pudding
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and creamy pudding, infused with the deep flavors of salted caramel and vanilla.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Let cool slightly.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.
4. Pour in caramel sauce and whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to chill and set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tiramisu-Inspired Vanilla Pudding
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy, coffee-infused vanilla pudding, inspired by the classic Italian treat, tiramisu. Perfect for a quick dessert fix or as a unique topping for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and coffee powder. Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the pudding thickens, stirring frequently.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Strain into a clean container to cool.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Almond Joy Vanilla Pudding
This creamy pudding combines the rich flavors of vanilla and almonds with a hint of coconut, reminiscent of Almond Joys.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until pudding thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Let cool slightly, then cover surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
5. Stir in coconut and almonds.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Raspberry Swirl Vanilla Pudding
This sweet treat combines the creamy richness of vanilla pudding with the tartness of fresh raspberries, creating a delightful dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat; add vanilla extract and softened gelatin, whisking until dissolved.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, swirl whipped cream over the pudding, then drizzle with sweetened raspberries.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Peanut Butter Cup Vanilla Pudding
Rich and creamy pudding infused with the flavors of peanut butter cups, perfect for a decadent dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup crushed peanut butter cups (mini or regular)
– Whipped cream and additional peanut butter cups for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter until smooth.
5. Fold in crushed peanut butter cups.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lavender Honey Vanilla Pudding
This light and creamy pudding is infused with the soothing flavors of lavender, honey, and vanilla, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes with the lavender buds.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the lavender buds.
5. Whisk in the honey and salt until dissolved.
6. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy richness of vanilla pudding with these 18 decadent recipes. From classic vanilla bean pudding to bourbon-infused vanilla custard, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Try vegan coconut vanilla pudding or layer it with berries for a fruity twist. Add a caramel drizzle to baked vanilla pudding for an indulgent treat. Or, get creative with chai-spiced vanilla pudding, banana foster-inspired pudding, and more. With flavors ranging from matcha green tea to salted caramel, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.