Description
This classic Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit is a creamy, homemade dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Made from scratch using simple ingredients like milk, sugar, and eggs, it is cooked on the stovetop to create a smooth, luscious pudding base, topped with a vibrant mix of seasonal fresh fruits for a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Fruit Topping
- 1½ cups mixed fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, mango, or grapes, cut into bite-sized pieces)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent scorching, until it begins to thicken and bubble, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Temper Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks. Gradually whisk about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to raise their temperature gently.
- Combine and Thicken: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 more minutes or until the pudding thickens further.
- Add Flavor and Butter: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until the pudding is smooth and glossy.
- Chill Pudding: Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until well chilled.
- Serve with Fresh Fruit: Just before serving, top the chilled pudding with a generous spoonful of the mixed fresh fruit for a refreshing and colorful finish.
Notes
- Use any seasonal, fresh, and ripe fruit you prefer to customize the dessert.
- For an added flavor twist, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the pudding.
- For an elegant presentation, layer the pudding and fruit in parfait glasses.
