Mom’s Recipe for Vanilla Pudding is a comforting classic that reminds us of sweet homemade treats. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a creamy, dreamy dessert that will leave everyone smiling.

When making Vanilla Pudding, consider that you can use almond or oat milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, and for those with sugar sensitivities, a sugar substitute may work well but might alter the texture slightly. Always choose high-quality ingredients for the richest flavor, and keep in mind that fresh eggs provide the best results.
Pudding & Mousse
Vanilla Pudding (Mom’s Recipe)
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup white syrup
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
Instructions
- Whisk together 2 cups of milk, 1/4 cup of white syrup, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a saucepan until well combined. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it feels warm to the touch.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks. Once the milk mixture is warm, mix 1 cup of it into the beaten yolks to temper them. Then, whisk the egg yolk mixture back into the warm milk mixture.
- Continue to heat the combined mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a flat wooden spoon to prevent it from burning on the bottom. The pudding will begin to thicken as you stir.
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and add 2 teaspoons of vanilla, stirring until well incorporated.
- To prevent a film from forming on the pudding as it cools, press a piece of wax paper directly on the surface.
Part of our Homemade Pudding and Mousse Recipes collection — Part 4 of 4: