Name: Caramel Pudding Recipe: Creamy and Decadent
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 265 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramel); 2 tbsp water; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for pudding); 3 large egg yolks; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/8 tsp kosher salt; Optional: Whipped cream (sea salt flakes); Suggested Pairings: Fresh berries (coffee)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Caramel Pudding is a classic dessert, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or cozy gatherings. This creamy, velvety pudding, infused with rich caramel flavor, delivers a sweet, indulgent taste with a smooth, luxurious texture. Presented in white ceramic ramekins or clear glass dessert cups, optionally garnished with whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt, this Caramel Pudding recipe offers a rich, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple, homemade version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings comforting charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Caramel Pudding:

1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
2 tbsp water
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup granulated sugar (for pudding)
3 large egg yolks
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 tsp kosher salt

For Serving:

Optional: Whipped cream, sea salt flakes
Suggested Accompaniments: Fresh berries, shortbread cookies
Suggested Pairings: Coffee, hot tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in white ceramic ramekins or clear glass dessert cups
Suggested Equipment: Medium saucepan, small saucepan, whisk, mixing bowl, fine mesh strainer, ramekins or dessert cups, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Make Caramel: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tbsp water. Cook, swirling the pan occasionally (do not stir), until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and carefully pour into 6 white ceramic ramekins or clear glass dessert cups, tilting to coat the bottoms evenly. Set aside to harden.
Prepare Pudding Base: In a medium saucepan, heat milk and heavy cream over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
Temper and Cook: Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 2–3 minutes; it should coat the back of a spoon). Do not boil.
Taste and Adjust: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Taste a small amount (carefully, as it’s hot) and adjust with a pinch of sugar or vanilla for balanced sweetness. Strain through a fine mesh strainer to ensure a smooth texture.
Assemble and Chill: Pour the pudding into the caramel-coated ramekins or cups. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Serve: Run a knife around the edges of the ramekins to loosen, then invert onto plates to release the pudding with caramel sauce on top. Alternatively, serve in the dessert cups. Optionally garnish with whipped cream or a pinch of sea salt flakes. Serve with fresh berries, shortbread cookies, coffee, or hot tea.

Tips for Better Caramel Pudding

Swirl the caramel pan gently to avoid crystallization; don’t stir to prevent graininess.
Taste the pudding base before chilling to balance sweet and creamy flavors; adjust cautiously.
Temper eggs slowly to prevent curdling; whisk constantly while adding hot milk.
Strain the pudding for a silky-smooth texture.
Present in white ceramic ramekins for a classic look or clear glass dessert cups to showcase the caramel layer.
Make ahead: Prepare pudding up to 2 days in advance; refrigerate covered.
For easier release, lightly grease ramekins before adding caramel.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with whipped cream or sea salt flakes for a rich, indulgent look.

Variations and Customization

Non-Dairy Caramel Pudding: Replace milk and cream with coconut milk and coconut cream; use vegan caramel sauce.
Low-Sugar Caramel Pudding: Reduce sugar in caramel to 1/3 cup and in pudding to 1/4 cup; use a sugar substitute if desired.
Salted Caramel Pudding: Add 1/4 tsp sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel flavor.
Vanilla Caramel Pudding: Increase vanilla extract to 1 1/2 tsp for a stronger vanilla note.
Chocolate Caramel Pudding: Stir in 2 tbsp cocoa powder with the cornstarch for a chocolate twist.
Coffee Caramel Pudding: Add 1 tsp instant espresso powder to the milk mixture for a coffee-infused flavor.
Spiced Caramel Pudding: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding base.
Gluten-Free Caramel Pudding: Naturally gluten-free; ensure cornstarch is gluten-free certified.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store pudding in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days; serve chilled for the best texture.
Do not freeze, as the caramel and pudding may separate or become grainy.
Serve chilled to highlight the creamy texture and caramel sauce.
Use as a standalone dessert or pair with light accompaniments like berries.
Pair with coffee or hot tea to complement the rich, sweet flavors.
Present in white ceramic ramekins or clear glass dessert cups with garnishes for an appetizing, decadent charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (1/2 cup each):

Calories: 260 kcal
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 90mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 26g
Protein: 4g
Vitamin A: 10% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 10% Daily Value
Iron: 4% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sugar options reduce calories to ~200 kcal). High in sugar; enjoy as a treat with lighter sides.

Conclusion

This Caramel Pudding recipe delivers a creamy, decadent dessert perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a luxurious classic. Its straightforward preparation and elegant presentation make it a favorite. The rich caramel and velvety texture delight every spoonful. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing indulgence.