Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This milk pudding is special because:
- It’s incredibly creamy and smooth
- Uses only a few ingredients
- Budget-friendly
- No oven required
- Great for kids and adults
- Can be flavored in many ways
- Sets beautifully for slicing
It’s basically the kind of dessert that looks fancy but is secretly super easy.
🧾 Ingredients
Here’s everything you need:
- 1 liter whole milk (full fat gives best texture)
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 5 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons milk powder (optional but richer)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional toppings:
- Coconut flakes
- Cinnamon
- Chocolate syrup
- Caramel sauce
- Fruit jam
- Fresh berries
🥄 Kitchen Tools Needed
You don’t need anything complicated:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Glass or ceramic dish (like in your photo)
- Refrigerator
That’s it!
🥛 Step 1 – Prepare the Milk Mixture
Start by pouring the cold milk into your saucepan.
Important tip: Always start with cold milk when using cornstarch. If the milk is hot, the starch forms lumps.
Add:
- Cornstarch
- Sugar
- Milk powder
- Salt
Whisk everything well until fully dissolved.
Make sure there are no lumps at all. The smoother your mixture now, the smoother your pudding later.
Take your time here — this step makes all the difference.
🔥 Step 2 – Cook Until Thick and Creamy
Place the saucepan over medium heat.
Start stirring continuously using a whisk or spatula.
After a few minutes, you’ll notice:
- Small bubbles forming
- The mixture getting heavier
- Texture thickening slowly
Don’t stop stirring or it may stick to the bottom.
After about 7–10 minutes, the mixture will transform into a thick, custard-like cream.
It should coat the spoon and leave a trail when you run your finger across.
That’s your perfect consistency.
🧈 Step 3 – Add Butter and Vanilla
Turn off the heat.
Immediately add:
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
Stir until the butter melts completely.
The butter adds richness and silkiness, while vanilla gives that warm, sweet aroma that makes the pudding irresistible.
At this point, your kitchen will smell AMAZING.
🍮 Step 4 – Pour and Smooth
Pour the hot custard into your serving dish.
Use a spatula to smooth the top.
To get that perfect glossy finish like in your image:
👉 Tap the dish gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
If you want it extra smooth:
👉 Pass the mixture through a strainer before pouring.
❄️ Step 5 – Chill and Set
Let it cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes first.
Then place in the refrigerator for at least:
- 3 hours (minimum)
- 5 hours (best result)
During this time, the pudding firms up and becomes sliceable.
Don’t rush this step — patience = perfect texture.
✨ Step 6 – Serve
Once chilled, you can:
- Slice into squares
- Scoop with a spoon
- Or flip onto a plate
It should wobble gently and feel soft like jelly but creamy like custard.
Top with:
- Coconut
- Cocoa powder
- Honey
- Fruit
- Caramel
Or eat plain — it’s already delicious.
🌟 Texture Tips for Perfect Results
Here are pro tips to guarantee ultra-smooth pudding:
✔ Always whisk cornstarch with cold milk
✔ Stir constantly while cooking
✔ Don’t cook on high heat
✔ Strain for extra smoothness
✔ Chill completely before serving
These small tricks create that professional look.
🍫 Flavor Variations
You can easily customize this pudding.
Chocolate Version
Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder while cooking.
Coconut Version
Replace 1 cup milk with coconut milk.
Coffee Version
Add 1 teaspoon instant coffee.
Orange Version
Add orange zest and a little juice.
Caramel Version
Pour caramel sauce at the bottom before adding custard.
So many possibilities!
🥄 Storage Tips
- Keep covered in fridge
- Lasts 3–4 days
- Do not freeze (texture changes)
Best served cold.
❤️ When to Serve This Dessert
This pudding is perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Guests
- Ramadan dessert
- Summer treats
- Kids snacks
- Light sweet cravings
It’s one of those desserts everyone loves because it’s not heavy or too sweet.
🥛 Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about simple milk desserts. They’re nostalgic, comforting, and always satisfying. This creamy milk custard pudding is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to create something beautiful and delicious.