Make this easy Caramel Pudding for a silky, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s simple to prepare and always impressive. Perfect for entertaining or satisfying sweet cravings with minimal effort.
Caramel Pudding is a rich, silky dessert with a smooth texture and deep caramel flavor that melts in your mouth. Made with simple ingredients, this easy recipe creates an elegant treat that’s perfect for special occasions or anytime you want something sweet and comforting.
It is a luscious treat and one of the most popular homemade pudding recipes. It is delicious alone but even better with Homemade Whipped Cream.
You will be pleased to know that it’s easy enough for busy moms to make for an afternoon treat. I also make Butterscotch Pudding, Chocolate Pudding and Oreo Pudding Pie Recipe for another hit! I have also been making Easy Banana Pudding Recipe, Dark Chocolate Pudding and Pumpkin Pudding for years.
Try more Caramel Dessert Recipes along with Best Caramel Popcorn Recipe, Caramel Dip Recipe, Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe and Salted Caramel Rice Krispies. You might also like Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls.
If you enjoy cooking from scratch, save The Best Substitutes for Cornstarch.
Table of contents
Why We Love This Recipe
- Silky smooth texture: Creamy and melt-in-your-mouth with every bite.
- Rich caramel flavor: Perfect balance of sweet and slightly deep, caramelized notes.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Elegant dessert: Great for entertaining or special occasions.
- Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance and chilled until ready to serve.
- Crowd-pleasing: A classic dessert that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Dark brown sugar: Adds a deep, rich sweetness and enhances the caramel flavor.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the pudding to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Heavy cream: Provides richness and a silky texture.
- Butter: Adds a buttery depth and smooth finish to the pudding.
- Large eggs: Helps set the pudding and gives it structure.
- Caramel sauce: Boosts the caramel flavor. Use Homemade Caramel Sauce or store-bought for convenience.
Find the complete ingredient list at the bottom of the post.
Variations
- Coconut Milk or Almond Milk. Substitute either of these for milk.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1. Combine together ½ cup sugar, tablespoons cornstarch mixture and salt in a medium saucepan. Cook the sugar syrup mixture on the stove using medium heat.
Step 2. Next, add the eggs and whisk until the egg yolk is well combined.
Step 3. Gradually add in the cup of the milk and heavy cream over medium high heat. Whisk the mixture constantly so that the eggs do not curdle. Simmer and then bring to a boil for 1 minute as you continue to whisk.
Step 4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter. Then add the creme caramel syrup.
Step 5. Combine together and then allow to cool.
Step 6. Once the delicious caramel custard mixture has cooled, pour into a small dish, bowls or ramekins and refrigerate to thicken. No need to strain. You can place the small bowl on a baking tray to make it easier to refrigerate.
Serving Suggestions
The pudding is very tasty served alone. However, it is also wonderful with whipped cream, sea salt and more caramel sauce. The combination is a delightful, salted caramel pudding recipe.
Try also adding a dash of cinnamon to each serving of custard pudding.
Pro Tips for Success
- Prevent a skin from forming: Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding before chilling to keep it smooth.
- Stir constantly: Continue stirring while the mixture cooks to prevent lumps and ensure even thickening.
- Cook over medium heat: Avoid high heat, which can cause the pudding to scorch or curdle.
- Whisk well: Use a whisk to keep the mixture smooth and lump-free as it thickens.
- Strain if needed: For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the pudding before chilling to remove any bits.
- Don’t overcook: Remove from heat once thickened to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Chill completely: Allow enough time in the refrigerator for the pudding to fully set.
- Use quality ingredients: Good butter, cream, and caramel sauce will enhance the overall flavor.
- Serve cold or slightly chilled: This brings out the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container. Properly stored in the fridge, the pudding will last up to 5 days.
Runny pudding is often due to undercooking the pudding. It is important to allow it to cook for the proper amount of time.
Yes, feel free to make the pudding 3 days in advance. Store inside an airtight container. Wait to add toppings until ready to serve.
More Easy Pudding Recipes
- Tapioca Pudding
- Peanut Butter Pudding
- Homemade Vanilla Pudding Recipe
- Best Dirt Cups Recipe
- Orange Pudding
- Best Sand Pudding Cups
Try this caramel pudding for a rich, creamy dessert that’s sure to impress and taste great. Make it for your next gathering or treat yourself, and don’t forget to leave a comment and star rating to share how much you loved it!
Caramel Pudding
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar
- 3 Tbsp Cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 2 Tablespoon Butter
- 2 Large Eggs
- 3/4 cup Caramel Sauce homemade or store bought
See how we calculate recipe costs.
Instructions
- Whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch and salt in a medium saucepan.
- Whisk in the eggs until well combined.
- Slowly add in the milk and heavy cream. Heat the pan over medium high heat. Whisk the mixture constantly so that the eggs do not curdle.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Boil for 1 minute while whisking the mixture.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Then stir in the caramel sauce.
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature and then pour it into a separate bowl.
- Cover the top of the pudding tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4-6 hours until the pudding has chilled and thickened completely.
- Then the pudding is ready to serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
