When it comes to comforting desserts, few things beat a rich and creamy vanilla pudding. But why settle for just any old recipe when you can take it to the next level with unique twists and flavor combinations? From classic pairings like chocolate and caramel to unexpected flavors like matcha green tea and lavender honey, we’ve rounded up 18 of the most creative and delicious vanilla pudding recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Classic Vanilla Bean Pudding
A classic dessert that’s both comforting and elegant, this vanilla bean pudding is a timeless treat that’s sure to please. With its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, it’s the perfect ending to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla bean. Let steep for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Whisk together egg yolks. Temper by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Return saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until pudding thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
6. Strain pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Silky Coconut Vanilla Pudding
This creamy pudding combines the richness of coconut with the sweetness of vanilla, making it a perfect dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and shredded coconut. Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and add butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm pudding mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the saucepan to medium heat and pour in the egg yolk mixture. Whisk continuously until the pudding thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Swirl Vanilla Pudding
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent and creamy pudding, featuring a velvety chocolate swirl throughout.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Bourbon-Infused Vanilla Pudding
Experience the perfect blend of creamy vanilla pudding and smooth bourbon in this decadent dessert. This recipe is a unique twist on classic vanilla pudding, perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Bulleit)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
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 heavy cream, bourbon whiskey, and vanilla extract.
5. Strain pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lavender Honey Vanilla Pudding
This creamy pudding combines the calming essence of lavender with the warmth of honey and the sweetness of vanilla, perfect for a relaxing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp dried lavender buds
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract, lavender buds, and honey. Let steep for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the lavender buds.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until chilled and set.
Cooking Time: None (chilled in refrigerator)
Matcha Green Tea Vanilla Pudding
This refreshing pudding combines the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea with the sweetness of vanilla, perfect for a warm weather treat. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this unique dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
- Mix milk, matcha powder, and sugar in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and hot.
- In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking continuously.
- Pour the pudding mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill and set.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Banana Foster Vanilla Pudding
A creamy and sweet dessert that combines the flavors of banana foster with a hint of vanilla, perfect for a warm evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced banana, heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, or until the bananas are tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until melted and smooth.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or ramekins. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salted Caramel Vanilla Pudding
This rich and creamy pudding combines the smoothness of vanilla with the deep flavor of caramel and a touch of salt, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as Maldon or Fleur de Sel)
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth.
3. Stir in caramel sauce until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill and set.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just refrigerate and serve.
Pumpkin Spice Vanilla Pudding
Satisfy your fall cravings with this creamy and comforting pumpkin spice vanilla pudding, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
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 pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Raspberry Swirl Vanilla Pudding
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy raspberry swirl vanilla pudding recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper eggs by slowly pouring warm milk mixture into eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until pudding thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Allow pudding to cool slightly before swirling in fresh raspberries.
6. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 7-10 minutes
Tiramisu-Inspired Vanilla Pudding
A creamy and comforting dessert inspired by the classic Italian treat, Tiramisu.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Let cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
6. Just before serving, top with whipped heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Joy Vanilla Pudding
Transform your favorite candy into a creamy dessert with this easy-to-make Almond Joy Vanilla Pudding recipe. With the perfect balance of coconut, almonds, and vanilla, you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup Almond Joy candy pieces (crushed)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, whisking 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 shredded coconut, chopped almonds, and crushed Almond Joy candy pieces.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chai-Spiced Vanilla Pudding
This comforting dessert combines the classic flavors of vanilla pudding with the aromatic spices of chai, perfect for a cozy evening or a special treat. Rich and creamy, this pudding is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/16 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/16 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
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 vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, black pepper, and cloves.
5. Pour into individual serving cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Zest Vanilla Pudding
Brighten up your day with this refreshing lemon zest vanilla pudding, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 tsp)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and zest. Let it steep for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the pudding into a clean bowl to remove the lemon zest.
4. Whisk in a pinch of salt.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including steeping time)
Strawberry Shortcake Vanilla Pudding
A classic dessert gets a delicious twist with this strawberry-infused vanilla pudding, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups sliced strawberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 package (0.25 oz) vanilla pudding mix
– Whipped cream and additional sliced strawberries for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Add pudding mix and whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in sliced strawberries.
5. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream and additional sliced strawberries if desired.
Cooking Time: None (chill time included)
Peanut Butter Cup Vanilla Pudding
This rich and creamy pudding combines the classic flavors of peanut butter cups with a smooth vanilla base, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this indulgent treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– Whipped cream and chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
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 thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, peanut butter, and melted butter until smooth.
5. Stir in chocolate chips until melted and well combined.
6. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oreo Crunch Vanilla Pudding
A rich and creamy vanilla pudding infused with the classic flavor of Oreos, topped with a crunchy cookie crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed Oreos
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch.
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 crushed Oreos and heavy cream.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Top with additional crushed Oreos and drizzle with melted butter.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Pecan Vanilla Pudding
Maple Pecan Vanilla Pudding: A Rich and Decadent Treat
This creamy pudding combines the warmth of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans and the comfort of vanilla, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, maple syrup, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Let cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, stir in heavy cream and chopped pecans.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Note: This pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in creamy vanilla pudding like never before! This collection of 18 recipes puts a delicious twist on the classic dessert. From rich and decadent (think bourbon-infused or salted caramel) to fruity and refreshing (like strawberry shortcake or lemon zest), there’s something for every taste bud. Add some crunch with Oreo crust, spice things up with chai or pumpkin spice, or go nuts with peanut butter cup – the possibilities are endless! Treat yourself to a creamy vanilla pudding today!
