Homemade Butterscotch Pudding is a rich and creamy custard that is an absolute must-try! It has an enhanced buttery taste that comes from browned butter.
Caramelized Flavor in Butterscotch Pudding
This delightful treat is made with browned butter, dark brown sugar, whole milk, cream, vanilla, and egg yolks, resulting in a decadent and indulgent flavor that will leave you satisfied–yet craving more! The key to achieving that deep, caramelized flavor in butterscotch pudding is with browned butter. By gently cooking the butter until it turns a deep golden brown, you’ll unlock a nutty and toasty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the sugar.
Dark Brown Sugar in Butterscotch Pudding
Dark brown sugar is added to the browned butter, creating a rich and intense butterscotch flavor that is the hallmark of this classic dessert. The combination of whole milk and cream adds a luscious creaminess to the pudding, making each spoonful a luxurious treat for the taste buds. A touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall complexity of the butterscotch flavor, and egg yolks contribute to the pudding’s smooth and velvety texture. The final result is a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and richness, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Butter for Butterscotch Pudding
Type of Butter
You can brown unsalted or salted butter. However, for this recipe, use unsalted butter.
Browning the Butter for Butterscotch Pudding
Brown the butter in a light-colored pan to watch the color change as it cooks. This will help prevent the butter from burning. Cook on medium-low heat and stir often. It can take the butter 5-10 minutes to brown.
Steps for Making Butterscotch Pudding
Follow these steps to make this pudding.
Serving and Storing Butterscotch Pudding
Serve butterscotch pudding warm, room temperature, or cold. Place plastic wrap over the top while it cools to keep it from drying out. This custard will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. I do not recommend freezing it.
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Butterscotch Pudding
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup whipping cream
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Cut the butter into pieces and melt in a heavy-duty stainless or light-colored saucepan. Cook on medium heat, stirring the whole time. It can take a few minutes for the butter to brown. It will foam and rise, so stir it down to see if the milk solids in the bottom are browning. Remove from the heat when the butter is lightly browned to prevent burning. Let cool while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Mix the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of the milk in a large pourable bowl. Whisk until smooth. Add the rest of the milk, cream, and yolks. Whisk until blended. Add the sugar and salt. Whisk well.
- Pour all of the liquid mixture into the butter in the saucepan. Whisk constantly and cook on medium until it boils and thickens. Remove from the heat and whisk in the vanilla. Add plastic wrap to the top of the pudding to prevent it from drying out. Cool completely and serve chilled.