Are you craving a comforting pudding but wary of the sugar rush? This low-sugar pudding recipe is the perfect solution! It's incredibly easy to make, unbelievably delicious, and surprisingly healthy. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals, without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to enjoy a homemade cooking masterpiece that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. Let's dive into this best recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup sugar substitute (erythritol, stevia, or your preferred option) – adjust to your sweetness preference
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for chocolate pudding)
- Optional: berries, whipped cream (low-fat) for topping
Instructions:
Step 1: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar substitute, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. If using cocoa powder, add it now and whisk until smooth.
Step 2: Cornstarch Slurry
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and a couple of tablespoons of the milk mixture to create a smooth slurry. This prevents lumps from forming in your pudding.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
Pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk. The mixture will thicken as it heats.
Step 4: Thicken the Pudding
Continue stirring until the pudding reaches a thick, creamy consistency. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure you stir continuously to avoid burning.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to cool and set completely.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Before serving, garnish your low-sugar pudding with fresh berries or a dollop of low-fat whipped cream. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dessert!
Tips for the Best Low-Sugar Pudding:
- Sugar Substitute: Experiment with different sugar substitutes to find your preferred level of sweetness. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed.
- Milk Alternatives: Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk all work well in this recipe. The flavor might slightly change depending on the milk you use.
- Prevent Lumps: The cornstarch slurry is key to a smooth pudding. Whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooking can result in a grainy texture. Stir constantly and remove from heat as soon as the desired consistency is reached.
Variations:
- Chocolate Pudding: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Vanilla Bean Pudding: Use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract for an intense vanilla flavor.
- Fruit Pudding: Stir in your favorite berries or chopped fruits after the pudding has cooled slightly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. For a general estimate using standard ingredients, a serving might contain approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Sugar: 5g (or less, depending on the sugar substitute used)
- Fat: 3-5g
This low-sugar pudding is a fantastic healthy alternative to traditional puddings, perfect as a delicious treat or a satisfying end to a healthy meal. It’s simple enough for easy recipes enthusiasts, yet sophisticated enough to impress even experienced cooks. Enjoy!