Step into the world of pure indulgence with our Butterscotch Pudding recipe. This classic dessert is a nostalgic journey into the rich, buttery sweetness of butterscotch, offering a luxurious and comforting experience in every spoonful. Whether you’re craving a solo treat after a long day or planning to impress guests at a dinner party, this Butterscotch Pudding is your ticket to dessert bliss. Join us as we explore the ingredients, guide you through the step-by-step instructions, share cook notes and variations, and unveil keto and low-carb versions. Let the velvety goodness of Butterscotch Pudding elevate your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and butterscotch chips for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk together the dark brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.
- Heat the Milk: Over medium heat, gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Whisk in Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in about a cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
- Cook to Thicken: Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, whisking consistently, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract until the butter is melted and the vanilla is well incorporated.
- Strain for Smoothness: For a silky texture, strain the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any potential lumps.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the surface of the pudding with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
- Serve and Garnish: Once chilled, spoon the Butterscotch Pudding into serving dishes. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of butterscotch chips if desired.
Cook Notes
- Tempering is Key: When adding the egg mixture back into the hot milk, do it gradually to avoid curdling. This process, known as tempering, ensures a smooth and creamy pudding.
- Cornstarch Consistency: Mix the cornstarch with the brown sugar thoroughly to prevent clumps in the pudding. A smooth blend ensures a consistent texture.
- Watch for Simmering: Keep a close eye when bringing the milk mixture to a simmer. Stir continuously to prevent scorching at the bottom of the saucepan.
Variations
1. Salted Butterscotch Bliss:
Add a pinch of sea salt to the pudding mixture for a delightful contrast to the sweetness, creating a perfect balance.
2. Bourbon Infusion:
Elevate the flavor profile by stirring in a tablespoon of bourbon along with the butter and vanilla for a sophisticated twist.
3. Nutty Delight:
Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts such as pecans or almonds over the top of the pudding for a crunchy texture.
Keto Versions
For those on a keto journey, consider these modifications:
- Sweetener Swap: Substitute dark brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Almond Milk Option: Use unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk to reduce the carb content.
- Xanthan Gum Thicken: Replace cornstarch with a small amount of xanthan gum to achieve the desired thickness.
Low-Carb Version
To cater to low-carb preferences, make these adjustments:
- Almond Flour Thickening: Substitute cornstarch with a small amount of almond flour to maintain a low-carb thickness.
- Coconut Milk Choice: Opt for full-fat coconut milk as a lower-carb alternative to whole milk.
- Moderate Sweetness: Adjust the sweetener to your liking, keeping it on the lower side for a milder sweetness.
Butterscotch Pudding is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of homemade desserts. From the velvety texture to the deep, caramelized flavor, each spoonful is a journey into the world of sweet sophistication. Whether you choose the classic recipe, experiment with variations, or opt for keto and low-carb adaptations, Butterscotch Pudding invites you to savor a moment of dessert indulgence that transcends the ordinary. So, whisk up a batch, let it chill to perfection, and treat yourself to the luscious delight that is Butterscotch Pudding. Here’s to the joy of creating, savoring, and reveling in the sweet symphony of flavors!
