Butterscotch Pudding

For a perfectly delectable dessert, look no further than butterscotch pudding. It’s a great combination of a creamy, light texture with a sweet, nutty flavor. For such a delicious recipe, its ingredients aren’t too complicated. Many of us already have these ingredients in their pantry, which makes this a perfect recipe to enjoy on a whim.

While many recipes rely on the dark brown sugar, we found that caramelizing the sugar first added the perfect nutty flavor we were looking for. Just a little sea salt also helped make the dish even sweeter. A hint of vanilla extract gave the pudding a great added complexity that finished off the dessert nicely. Keep reading below for our favorite butterscotch pudding recipe…

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This butterscotch pudding is not only rich and creamy but also has a deep, nutty flavor thanks to the caramelized sugar. It’s a comforting dessert that’s easy to make, using ingredients you probably already have at home. The subtle addition of sea salt elevates the sweetness, while the vanilla extract adds a layer of sophistication. Perfect for a last-minute dessert or a planned dinner party treat!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Small pot
• Medium pot
• Candy thermometer
• Whisk
• Small bowl
• Large glass bowl
• Plastic wrap

Ingredients

• 3 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 3/4 cups plus 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a small pot, bring the cream and milk to a simmer. Remove from the heat and cover to keep warm.
2. In a medium pot, bring brown sugar, 1/3 cup water, and salt to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer (about 10 minutes).
3. Immediately whisk the cream mixture into the brown sugar. Bring to a boil, whisking constantly, and cook until smooth.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks, egg, and cornstarch. Pour a ladle of the hot cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the pot with the cream, whisking constantly. Cook for another 2-4 minutes until thickened.
6. Strain the mixture into a large glass bowl and whisk in the butter until smooth.
7. Divide among serving dishes and chill for at least 4 hours until the custard sets. To prevent skin forming, press plastic wrap directly against the surface of the pudding.
8. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Make sure to whisk continuously when combining the hot cream and egg mixtures to prevent curdling. Using a candy thermometer ensures the sugar is cooked to the right temperature, which is crucial for achieving the perfect butterscotch flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a twist, try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the mix for a more complex flavor profile. You can also top the pudding with whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt for added texture and taste.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 | Fat: 23g | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 5g | Sugar: 20g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown?

Yes, but the flavor will be slightly milder. Dark brown sugar provides a richer, more robust taste.

How do I prevent skin from forming on the pudding?

Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding before chilling to prevent skin from forming.

Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pudding can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Why not indulge in a little luxury with this delightful butterscotch pudding? We’re sure it will become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative variations you come up with. Enjoy!