I absolutely love vanilla pudding. I also love chocolate pudding. But I think I love vanilla pudding just a little more. If you’re a fan of sweet, creamy and smooth desserts, then this homemade classic vanilla pudding recipe is a must-try! It’s a delicious treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth any time of the day. It’s my go-to dessert recipe when I need something easy and yummy.
What I love about this recipe is that unlike the store-bought vanilla pudding powder, this recipe has milk, eggs, turmeric and arrowroot powder that are all rich in amazing health benefits.
Personally, I love eating this creamy vanilla pudding hot. But it’s just as enjoyable served cold, too. And let’s not forget about the skin that forms on top – some people love it, while others hate it. I am in the camp “LOVE IT!”. What camp are you in? Let me know in the comments!
Good To Know
Turmeric is a wonderful spice that can help lower inflammation, act as an antioxidant and can also support brain health.
Egg yolks are a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals. They also contain choline, which is a nutrient that helps keep our brain healthy. Even more, egg yolks have vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones and teeth, and vitamin B12, which helps make red blood cells and keeps our nervous system working well.
I enjoy eating this creamy vanilla pudding with berries. Strawberries are rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, which can boost the immune system and protect against infections. Blueberries are a good source of antioxidants which can help lower inflammation. They also have fiber, which promotes healthy digestion.
Substitutions
You can replace the arrowroot powder with cornstarch. I like to use arrowroot powder because it comes from a root vegetable (called arrowroot) and it has fiber, protein, minerals and B vitamins.
If you’re looking for a milk alternative, homemade almond milk is a great choice. It’s full of healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, making it perfect for people who follow a plant-based diet or who are intolerant to dairy milk.
Make it
Gluten free – the recipe has no gluten
Dairy free – use a plant-based milk
Vegetarian – the recipe is vegetarian
Extra health points
If you want to take your homemade vanilla pudding to the next level, try adding some fresh berries and shaved dark chocolate. Not only will they add some beautiful colors to your dessert, but they will also give it a boost of flavor and nutrition. And if you’re feeling adventurous, walnuts and hemp seeds can also make great toppings for this creamy pudding. With these additions, your taste buds are in for a treat and your body will thank you for the extra nutrients. Give it a try and watch the flavor and nutrition skyrocket!
Storing, freezing and reheating tips
Store
Store in the fridge in an air-tight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze
I do not recommend freezing it.
Reheat
I do not recommend reheating it.
Watch how to make it step-by-step!
Simple, Creamy and Smooth: Classic Vanilla Pudding
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 small servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the simple pleasures of this classic homemade vanilla pudding. This recipe is a timeless favorite, with a rich and creamy texture and warm, comforting flavors. With only a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time. Serve it at a dinner party or enjoy it during a cozy night in, this vanilla pudding is sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
4 tbsp arrowroot powder
1 pinch turmeric powder
2 1/4 cup almond milk, divided (see notes)
3 egg yolks (see notes)
1/3 cup + 1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp vanilla extract
Toppings – strawberries, raspberries, shaved chocolate, whipped cream
Instructions
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In a small pot mix the arrowroot powder and the turmeric powder with ¼ cup almond milk. Stir until no clumps are visible.
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Separate the egg yolks from the whites.
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Mix in the egg yolks, maple syrup and the rest of the almond milk (2 cups). Stir until the mixture is homogenized.
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Place the pot on the stove and slowly warm up the mixture on low-medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and small bubbles appear on the surface. (see notes)
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Remove from heat and mix in 1 tbsp vanilla extract.
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The pudding is hot, so pour it carefully into small bowls.
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Serve cold or hot.
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Garnish with chocolate shavings and serve with berries.
Enjoy!
Notes
Use your favourite milk. Dairy milk and oat milk tend to yield a creamier pudding than other types of milk.
Do not throw out the egg whites. You can make an omelette by mixing them with whole eggs.
When it comes to making this classic vanilla pudding, the only tricky part is ensuring that it’s smooth and clump-free. That means stirring often during the cooking process. But all this stirring is worth it, as it yields a silky texture and delicious flavor.
What To Cook Next
Have you jumped on the energy bites bandwagon yet? I have and my family can’t get enough of these. They are the perfect easy snack for busy days when you need a guilt-free pick-me-up. And bonus: you’ll make your brain very happy.