Name: Butterscotch Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 3 cups 2% milk; 3 large egg yolks; 2 tablespoons butter, cubed; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Whipped cream, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 90 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth and love a dessert that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Butterscotch Pudding Recipe is going to steal your heart. With its rich, buttery flavor and creamy texture, it’s the perfect treat to end any meal or brighten a cozy afternoon. Simple ingredients transform into a silky pudding that captures the irresistible essence of classic butterscotch, making it a forever favorite that’s genuinely worth making again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of a black saucepan filled with a light brown creamy liquid, unevenly mixed with melted yellow butter and a darker brown thick syrup or sauce pooling on one side. The saucepan is placed on a white marbled surface. To the left of the pot, there is a small white bowl with some brown liquid inside and a dark glass bottle with a red cap. The saucepan handle extends out to the right, and the mixture shows smooth and glossy textures with some separation of ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Butterscotch Pudding Recipe plays a crucial role, creating depth of flavor, smooth texture, and that gorgeous golden hue. They are easy to find and straightforward, which makes the cooking process even more enjoyable.

1/2 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps build the caramelized butterscotch base.
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar: Introduces rich molasses notes that deepen the butterscotch flavor beautifully.
3 tablespoons cornstarch: The thickening agent that gives pudding its signature creamy consistency.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle warm spice that makes every bite interesting.
3 cups 2% milk: Provides the smooth liquid base without overpowering richness.
3 large egg yolks: Give the pudding a luscious, custard-like texture.
2 tablespoons butter, cubed: Infuses creaminess and that signature buttery taste.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Lifts all the flavors with its sweet floral aroma.
Whipped cream, optional: A fluffy topping that pairs wonderfully with the silky pudding.

How to Make Butterscotch Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk

Begin by whisking together sugar, dark brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, and nutmeg in a large heavy saucepan. This dry mix forms the backbone of your pudding’s flavor and texture. Slowly stir in the 2% milk until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. This gradual process helps set the stage for a silky, lump-free pudding.

Step 2: Cook the Mixture Until Thick and Bubbly

Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and stir constantly as the mixture heats up. Watch closely as it transitions from a thin liquid to thick and bubbling—it usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once thickened, lower the heat and cook for two more minutes while stirring to ensure even cooking without burning. Then, remove the pan from heat for the next step.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks

This step is critical to a creamy pudding. Slowly stir a small amount of the hot pudding mixture into the egg yolks to warm them gently. Then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly. Return the pan to medium-low heat and bring to a gentle boil. Keep stirring as the pudding thickens further, coating the back of a spoon, which should take about two minutes.

Step 4: Add Butter and Vanilla

Remove the pudding from heat and stir in the cubed butter and vanilla extract until melted and fully incorporated. This step enriches the pudding and adds that unmistakable butterscotch glow. Allow the pudding to cool for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Divide the pudding among six dessert dishes. Cover each dish with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding to keep it fresh and prevent skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least two hours or until well chilled and set.

How to Serve Butterscotch Pudding Recipe

Two glasses filled with a creamy light brown drink are shown, each topped with a fluffy white whipped cream layer sprinkled with a small amount of brown powder. The glasses have a short thick base with a wider rounded top. Next to the glass in the foreground, there are two white ceramic spoons lying on a white marbled surface. The background is light blue with vertical paneling. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch that brightens the pudding’s buttery richness, top each serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon can add welcoming texture and warmth.

Side Dishes

Serve your butterscotch pudding alongside delicate shortbread cookies or buttery biscotti for a crunchy contrast. Fresh berries, like raspberries or sliced strawberries, also balance the sweetness with their natural tartness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the butterscotch pudding in clear glasses with crumbled cookies or cake crumbs for a mini parfait effect. Or use individual mason jars for an adorable picnic or party presentation that’s both charming and portable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Butterscotch Pudding Recipe can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it tightly sealed helps preserve its silky texture and rich flavor, making it just as delightful when enjoyed the next day.

Freezing

While pudding textures can change when frozen, you can freeze small portions of butterscotch pudding in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before serving. Note that the smooth texture might be slightly less creamy after freezing.

Reheating

If you prefer your pudding warm, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring continuously to avoid sticking or curdling. Warm it just enough to enjoy without overheating, which can alter the lovely texture you worked so hard to achieve.

FAQs

Can I use whole milk instead of 2% in this Butterscotch Pudding Recipe?

Absolutely! Whole milk will make your pudding even creamier and richer, which some people prefer. Just keep in mind that it might be a bit heavier, but still deliciously indulgent.

Is it necessary to use egg yolks in the pudding?

Egg yolks lend a classic custard-like texture and richness, but if you need to avoid eggs, you can experiment with cornstarch alone as a thickener. The pudding might be a bit less silky but still tasty.

Can I make this pudding vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy and eggs, so a vegan version would require substitutes like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg replacers. The flavor will shift slightly, but with some experimentation, you can create a delicious alternative.

What can I do if the pudding is too thick or too thin?

If it’s too thick, gently whisk in a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, continue cooking over low heat while stirring to allow it to thicken more.

How soon can I serve the pudding after making it?

While you can enjoy the pudding warm shortly after it’s made, chilling it for at least two hours enhances the texture and lets the flavors meld perfectly, offering that classic butterscotch pudding experience.

Final Thoughts

You really cannot go wrong with this cozy, comforting Butterscotch Pudding Recipe. It’s an effortless way to bring warm, nostalgic flavors into your kitchen and share a little joy. Trust me, once you taste the deep, buttery sweetness with that smooth texture, this pudding will become your go-to dessert for whenever you need a special treat. So go on, give it a try—you deserve that little scoop of happiness!