Are you craving a ridiculously easy yet incredibly delicious dessert? Look no further! This sweetened condensed milk pudding recipe is your answer. It's the ultimate comfort food, requiring minimal effort and delivering maximum flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight treat, a potluck contribution, or simply satisfying a sudden sweet tooth, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into this simple and delightful homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, fresh berries
Instructions:
Step 1: Whisk the Magic
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, cornstarch, and salt until completely smooth. This step is crucial for preventing lumps in your final pudding.
Step 2: Gentle Simmering
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continuously whisk the mixture while it gently simmers. This prevents scorching and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. The pudding will start to thicken as it heats.
Step 3: The Thickening Process
Continue whisking until the pudding reaches a thick consistency, similar to a custard. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don't rush this step; consistent whisking is key.
Step 4: Flavor Infusion
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This is where the magic happens; the vanilla enhances the creamy sweetness of the pudding perfectly.
Step 5: Cooling and Setting
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, or until completely chilled and set.
Step 6: Garnish and Delight
Once chilled, garnish your pudding with your favorite toppings. Whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, while chocolate shavings provide a delightful contrast. Chopped nuts offer a satisfying crunch, and fresh berries introduce a burst of vibrant flavor. Enjoy your creamy, dreamy pudding!
Cooking Tips for Pudding Perfection:
- Use Whole Milk: Whole milk provides a richer, creamier texture. However, you can use 2% milk if you prefer.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooking can cause the pudding to become grainy. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches the desired thickness.
- Prevent Lumps: Ensure all ingredients are well-whisked together before heating to avoid lumps.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow the pudding to chill completely for the best texture and flavor.
Variations on a Theme:
- Chocolate Pudding: Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture along with the other ingredients.
- Coconut Pudding: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Coffee Pudding: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules with the sweetened condensed milk.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 30-35g
- Protein: 4-5g
This easy and delicious sweetened condensed milk pudding recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that's also a healthy treat (in moderation, of course!). It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes, making it an ideal dessert for both beginner and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy!