{"id":1555,"date":"2021-01-04T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-01-04T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/toh.test.rda.net\/how-to-make-pudding-the-old-fashioned-way\/"},"modified":"2025-01-15T16:41:50","modified_gmt":"2025-01-15T22:41:50","slug":"how-to-make-pudding-the-old-fashioned-way","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-make-pudding-the-old-fashioned-way\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Make Pudding the Old-Fashioned Way"},"content":{"rendered":"[dam-video dam-id=\"25568\"]\r\n\r\nWe all love instant pudding mix. It might just be the best thing since (dare I say it?) sliced bread. It's been our go-to ingredient for making quick desserts like this Chocolate Chip Cookie Delight<\/a> or the creamy frosting on our favorite Pineapple Orange Cake<\/a>. But what happened to its predecessor, homemade pudding? With all the hustle and bustle of today's busy cooks, I think this old-school dessert deserves a comeback. It's creamy and delicious, and much tastier than a quick mix.\r\nWhy You Should Make Homemade Pudding<\/h2>\r\nIt's a fantastic way to use up extra egg yolks.<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nEver wondered what to do with your leftover egg yolks when making meringue or angel food cake? Homemade pudding is your answer. Its simple recipe calls for those sunny centers (and not the whites) to create its moist, delicious texture. Check out these other recipes that use up egg yolks<\/a>.\r\nIt's a great pantry dessert.<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nAlongside the egg yolks, the recipe for old-fashioned pudding calls for basic ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand. Think sugar, salt, cornstarch, milk and a bar of chocolate. (OK, bars of chocolate never last long in my household, so you might have to stop by the store for that one.)\r\nYou can<\/strong> customize the flavor.<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nFor those of us who love to get creative in the kitchen, homemade pudding is the perfect medium. The simple recipe can be expanded upon to build any flavor you can dream of. Cinnamon white chocolate? Yep. Dark chocolate and raspberry extract? Yum-O. Peanut Butter 'n' Banana? Oh my.\r\nThe proof truly is in the pudding.<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nIt's just a fact that old-fashioned pudding is much richer and tastier than the pre-made or instant mix stuff. Once you've had it, you'll never be able to compare the two again. It's the ultimate comfort food to have slowly cooking on the stove.\r\n\r\nSold yet? I thought so. Our Test Kitchen has devised the best way to make pudding at home.\r\nHow to Make Pudding the Old-Fashioned Way<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\nThis homemade chocolate pudding comes from Taste Recipes reader Lily Julow. Lily says of the recipe, \"Life is too short to pass on dessert. This old-fashioned treat is so creamy and comforting!\" And we certainly agree!\r\nGet Recipe<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\nIngredients<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t1\/4 cup sugar<\/li>\r\n \t3 tablespoons cornstarch<\/li>\r\n \t1\/4 teaspoon salt<\/li>\r\n \t2 cups whole milk<\/li>\r\n \t3 large egg yolks<\/li>\r\n \t1 dark chocolate candy bar (6.8 ounces), finely chopped<\/li>\r\n \t1\/2 teaspoon flavored extract. We like vanilla, but you can experiment with flavors like almond, orange or mint.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nTools<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n\r\n \tLarge saucepan<\/li>\r\n \tFlat whisk (standard is fine, too)<\/li>\r\n \tSmall bowl<\/li>\r\n \tPlastic wrap<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nDirections<\/h3>\r\nStep 1:<\/strong> Combine the first three ingredients<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nIn a large saucepan, mix the sugar, cornstarch and salt. We're adding cornstarch for two reasons. One, it helps thicken the custard, and two, it helps keep the eggs from coagulating once they're heated. You definitely don't want bites of scrambled egg in your pudding! Be sure to avoid these other common egg mistakes<\/a>.\r\nStep 2:<\/strong> Add the milk and gently cook<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nAt this point, were going to challenge you to multitask. Slowly pour the milk into the pan while gently whisking the ingredients. Whisk until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. Then, dial up the burner to medium heat. Make sure to stir the pot continuously until the liquid has started to thicken and bubble. Don't be tempted to leave it unattended-your pudding might scorch!\r\n\r\nTest Kitchen Tip:<\/strong><\/em> If you're a utensil connoisseur like me, a flat whisk is a great tool to reach into the corners of your saucepan. This extra reach will make sure you whisk every bit of milk. Here are some more reasons you'll want a flat whisk in your kitchen<\/a>.\r\nStep 3:<\/strong> Lower heat and stir<\/h4>\r\nOnce the pudding has started to bubble, reduce the heat to low. Continue gently stirring for 2 minutes longer, then remove from heat. By the way, this is the difference between pudding and custard<\/a>.\r\nStep 4:<\/strong> Carefully add the egg yolks<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nCombine the egg yolks with a small portion of the hot custard mixture in a small bowl and give it a whisk to combine. This brings the eggs up to a higher temperature, so they'll mix into the pudding more smoothly, without curdling. Pour the milky yolk mix into the saucepan. Whisk again to combine.\r\nStep 5:<\/strong> Heat things up again<\/h4>\r\nBring the saucepan, yet again, to a gentle boil. Continue to cook and stir for 2 minutes. These are the cooking and baking steps you should never skip<\/a>.\r\n\r\nTest Kitchen Tip:<\/strong><\/em> This extra step might seem unnecessary but it's actually quite important. Why? The extra cook time kills off an enzyme in the raw yolk called alpha-amylase. If the enzyme remains in your pudding, you're likely to end up with a watery mess.\r\nStep 6:<\/strong> Bring on the chocolate (or other flavors)<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nStir in the chopped chocolate. Once it's fully melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Top it off by stirring in the vanilla extract. Let the mix cool about 15 minutes or so, stirring once in a while to keep it smooth.\r\n\r\nTest Kitchen Tip:<\/strong><\/em> You can add lots of different flavors. Try heating up your chocolate with some cayenne, or lose the chocolate and just make vanilla pudding, maybe with some cinnamon? Get creative! Check out these pudding recipes<\/a> for some inspiration.\r\nStep 7:<\/strong> Cover with plastic wrap and cool<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nOnce the pudding has cooled slightly, transfer it to a bowl. Press plastic wrap right onto the surface of the pudding, which helps prevent a skin from forming. Pudding skin is simply milk protein (casein) that's dried out due to evaporation. It can form a thin, rubbery layer on top of your dessert. It won't hurt you; if it happens, just scrape it off with the edge of a spoon. Refrigerate the pudding for a few hours until cold and try not to stir the pudding once it's set. It'll start thinning the rich texture. Next, learn how to make figgy pudding<\/a>, a dessert for every season.\r\n\r\nTest Kitchen Tip:<\/strong><\/em> No plastic wrap on hand? You can also keep the skin from forming by adding a thin layer of butter. To do this, lightly dab a stick of butter on the surface of the hot mix until a thin layer has collected on top.\r\nStep 8: Enjoy!<\/h4>\r\nWhen your pudding has cooled completely, remove it from the fridge and serve with homemade whipped cream<\/a> and some chocolate curls.\r\nHow to Store Homemade Pudding<\/h2>\r\nIf you manage to have any leftovers, transfer the pudding to an airtight container, covering the top of the pudding with plastic wrap or butter, and enjoy within four days.\r\nHow to Customize Pudding<\/h2>\r\nNow that you're a pudding pro, there's no limit to the flavor combinations you can achieve by simply mixing and matching ingredients. Here are a few to get you started:\r\n\r\n \tMake it a mocha<\/strong>: Stir 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder in with the sugar mixture at the beginning of the recipe.<\/li>\r\n \tAdd some heat<\/strong>: Swap out the plain chocolate for Mexican chocolate instead.<\/li>\r\n \tIncorporate sweet flavors<\/strong>: Substitute white chocolate and orange extract for a fruity delight or whip it up with bananas<\/a> instead.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tLove old-fashioned pudding? Try these vintage desserts next!<\/div>\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/i>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t1 \/ 45<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/i>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \r\n\r\n\r\n[dam-video dam-id=\"28460\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\nGrandma\u2019s Old-Fashioned Strawberry Shortcake<\/a>\r\nWhen my grandma served this shortcake, she usually topped it with homemade vanilla ice cream. \u2014Angela Lively, Conroe, Texas<\/div>\r\nGet Recipe<\/a><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Marzipan Cups with Currant Jelly<\/a>These bite-size beauties look and taste gourmet, but they're easy to make and boast a delicate almond flavor. The hidden jelly surprise and pretty nut accent make them a nice addition to any treats tray. You can make them in advance and freeze them for up to three months, if you like. \u2014Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, OntarioGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Custard<\/a>This custard recipe uses simple ingredients and a no-frill method to make the perfect batch of belly-warming baked custard.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Homemade Butterscotch Pudding<\/a>Homemade pudding reminds me of my grandma and how she turned milk and eggs into creamy textures before my eyes. The butterscotch<\/a> in this recipe adds a caramel-sweet touch. \u2014Teresa Wilkes, Pembroke, GeorgiaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Almond Torte<\/a>Reduced-fat sour cream, egg whites and applesauce lighten up this gorgeous almond torte. A creamy custard filling lends richness. \u2014Kathy Olsen, Marlborough, New Hampshire\r\nGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Meringue Snowballs In Custard<\/a>My family has passed down this elegant dessert generation by generation. It started with my Russian great-grandmother, who traveled to America more than 100 years ago. I love continuing the tradition with her recipe. \u2014Tonya Burkhard, Palm Coast, FloridaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Mango Gelatin Salad<\/a>My Aunt Nannette often made this salad as a convenient make-ahead dish. The mango mold has hints of apricot and can be served with pork, chicken and beef\u2014or for dessert. \u2014Debra Sult, Chandler, ArizonaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Mocha Baked Alaskas<\/a>Make these baked Alaskas ahead of time\u2014you can torch the completed desserts and freeze them up to 24 hours before serving. \u2014Kerry Dingwall, Ponte Vedra, FloridaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Shoofly Cupcakes<\/a>These were my grandmother's specialty. To keep them from disappearing too quickly, she used to store them out of sight. \u2014Beth Adams, Jacksonville, FloridaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Charlotte\u2019s Green Tomato Pie<\/a>Green tomato pie makes an awesome conversation piece. I took it to a potluck and it was a delight to share. \u2014Charlotte McDaniel, Jacksonville, Alabama Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Strawberry Crunch Ice Cream Cake<\/a>While growing up, I loved treats from the ice cream truck that rolled through my neighborhood. This ice cream cake is inspired by one of those crunchy, strawberry novelties. \u2014Lisa Kaminski, Wauwatosa, WisconsinGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Divinity Candy<\/a>Like fluffy clouds from up on high, divinity candy truly earns its heavenly moniker.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Cherry Gelatin Supreme<\/a>When I was growing up, this yummy, easy dessert was always on the menu at holiday get-togethers. Years ago, my aunt gave me the recipe, and now when I make it for my family, I think of her. \u2014Janice Rathgeb, Brighton, IllinoisGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Lemon Icebox Pie<\/a>Our chilled, no-bake lemon icebox pie is the perfect indulgence on a hot summer's day.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Skillet Blueberry Slump<\/a>Don't let the homey, almost unappetizing name \"slump\" fool you. Easier than pie, these baked summer fruit desserts<\/a> are topped with tasty biscuits. If you love vintage food, learn how to make cottage cheese biscuits<\/a>.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Figgy Apple Brie Tart<\/a>Our holiday gatherings often included baked Brie. I transformed it into a dessert that\u2019s savory and sweet. It makes a wonderful appetizer, too. \u2014Kristie Schley, Severna Park, MarylandGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Fresh Plum Crumb Dessert<\/a>My old-fashioned dessert has the perfect sweet-tart balance with its fresh-plum tang and sweet, crispy topping. Imagine it warm from the oven, served with a scoop of ice cream\u2026yum! \u2014Janet Fahrenbruck-Lynch, Cincinnati, OhioGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Old-Fashioned Honey Baked Apples<\/a>My baked apple recipe is very old-fashioned yet tried and true. It's definitely a comfort food. \u2014Rachel Hamilton, Greenville, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups<\/a>A family friend gave me a simple way to make apple dumplings without lots of steps. I love the sticky cinnamon topping. \u2014Jenny Leighty, West Salem, Ohio Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Corn Pudding<\/a>This sweetheart of a side is delicious, rich and perfect on a weeknight table or as part of a holiday spread. If you want to step up your side dish game, this triple-corn pudding is an excellent choice.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Rice Pudding<\/a>Rice pudding, which uses leftover rice, makes the sweetest comfort dessert. Here's how to make rice pudding just as Grandma used to years ago.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Crunchy Candy Clusters<\/a>These cereal and marshmallow clusters are so simple that I make them for the holidays each year, as my family looks forward to them. \u2014Faye O'Bryan, Owensboro, KentuckyGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Lebkuchen<\/a>Dense, chewy lebkuchen is a great addition to your Christmas-cookie routine, but you can make it any time of year. While most lebkuchen contains ginger, this is a ginger-free version that uses other spices and molasses to achieve a similar flavor.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Lemon Chiffon Cake<\/a>Lemon chiffon cake is soft and spongy, with a luscious buttercream frosting. You'll want to eat this cake quickly, as chiffon cakes don't last very long\u2014but that shouldn't be a problem, given how delicious it is.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Peach Bavarian<\/a>Fruit molds are my specialty. This one, with its refreshing peach taste, makes a colorful salad or dessert. \u2014Adeline Piscitelli, Sayreville, New JerseyGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Scottish Shortbread<\/a>This three-ingredient traditional Scottish shortbread recipe makes beautifully buttery, crumbly biscuits to elevate tea time.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Italian Holiday Cookies<\/a>Many of our holiday traditions center around the foods my mother made while I was growing up. These cookies, which we called \"Strufoli\", bring back wonderful memories. \u2014Sue Seymour, Valatie, New YorkGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Icebox Cookies<\/a>This cookie recipe from my 91-year-old grandmother was my grandfather's favorite. She still makes them and sends us home with the dough so that we can make more whenever we want, I love to make a fresh batch when company drops in. \u2014Chris Paulsen, Glendale, ArizonaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Hot Cross Buns<\/a>Whether enjoying them as a holiday celebration or as an everyday treat, this hot cross buns recipe is simple, relatively quick and easy to pull together, as well as subtly sweet and fruity. The yeast helps keep the buns light and fluffy too.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Mincemeat Trifle<\/a>Instead of fixing a traditional pie, I gussied up mincemeat by creating this fancy trifle. The recipe's a time-saver, since it can be prepared a day ahead. Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
Get Recipe<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\nIngredients<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t1\/4 cup sugar<\/li>\r\n \t3 tablespoons cornstarch<\/li>\r\n \t1\/4 teaspoon salt<\/li>\r\n \t2 cups whole milk<\/li>\r\n \t3 large egg yolks<\/li>\r\n \t1 dark chocolate candy bar (6.8 ounces), finely chopped<\/li>\r\n \t1\/2 teaspoon flavored extract. We like vanilla, but you can experiment with flavors like almond, orange or mint.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nTools<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n\r\n \tLarge saucepan<\/li>\r\n \tFlat whisk (standard is fine, too)<\/li>\r\n \tSmall bowl<\/li>\r\n \tPlastic wrap<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nDirections<\/h3>\r\nStep 1:<\/strong> Combine the first three ingredients<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nIn a large saucepan, mix the sugar, cornstarch and salt. We're adding cornstarch for two reasons. One, it helps thicken the custard, and two, it helps keep the eggs from coagulating once they're heated. You definitely don't want bites of scrambled egg in your pudding! Be sure to avoid these other common egg mistakes<\/a>.\r\nStep 2:<\/strong> Add the milk and gently cook<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nAt this point, were going to challenge you to multitask. Slowly pour the milk into the pan while gently whisking the ingredients. Whisk until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. Then, dial up the burner to medium heat. Make sure to stir the pot continuously until the liquid has started to thicken and bubble. Don't be tempted to leave it unattended-your pudding might scorch!\r\n\r\nTest Kitchen Tip:<\/strong><\/em> If you're a utensil connoisseur like me, a flat whisk is a great tool to reach into the corners of your saucepan. This extra reach will make sure you whisk every bit of milk. Here are some more reasons you'll want a flat whisk in your kitchen<\/a>.\r\nStep 3:<\/strong> Lower heat and stir<\/h4>\r\nOnce the pudding has started to bubble, reduce the heat to low. Continue gently stirring for 2 minutes longer, then remove from heat. By the way, this is the difference between pudding and custard<\/a>.\r\nStep 4:<\/strong> Carefully add the egg yolks<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nCombine the egg yolks with a small portion of the hot custard mixture in a small bowl and give it a whisk to combine. This brings the eggs up to a higher temperature, so they'll mix into the pudding more smoothly, without curdling. Pour the milky yolk mix into the saucepan. Whisk again to combine.\r\nStep 5:<\/strong> Heat things up again<\/h4>\r\nBring the saucepan, yet again, to a gentle boil. Continue to cook and stir for 2 minutes. These are the cooking and baking steps you should never skip<\/a>.\r\n\r\nTest Kitchen Tip:<\/strong><\/em> This extra step might seem unnecessary but it's actually quite important. Why? The extra cook time kills off an enzyme in the raw yolk called alpha-amylase. If the enzyme remains in your pudding, you're likely to end up with a watery mess.\r\nStep 6:<\/strong> Bring on the chocolate (or other flavors)<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nStir in the chopped chocolate. Once it's fully melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Top it off by stirring in the vanilla extract. Let the mix cool about 15 minutes or so, stirring once in a while to keep it smooth.\r\n\r\nTest Kitchen Tip:<\/strong><\/em> You can add lots of different flavors. Try heating up your chocolate with some cayenne, or lose the chocolate and just make vanilla pudding, maybe with some cinnamon? Get creative! Check out these pudding recipes<\/a> for some inspiration.\r\nStep 7:<\/strong> Cover with plastic wrap and cool<\/h4>\r\n\r\n\r\nOnce the pudding has cooled slightly, transfer it to a bowl. Press plastic wrap right onto the surface of the pudding, which helps prevent a skin from forming. Pudding skin is simply milk protein (casein) that's dried out due to evaporation. It can form a thin, rubbery layer on top of your dessert. It won't hurt you; if it happens, just scrape it off with the edge of a spoon. Refrigerate the pudding for a few hours until cold and try not to stir the pudding once it's set. It'll start thinning the rich texture. Next, learn how to make figgy pudding<\/a>, a dessert for every season.\r\n\r\nTest Kitchen Tip:<\/strong><\/em> No plastic wrap on hand? You can also keep the skin from forming by adding a thin layer of butter. To do this, lightly dab a stick of butter on the surface of the hot mix until a thin layer has collected on top.\r\nStep 8: Enjoy!<\/h4>\r\nWhen your pudding has cooled completely, remove it from the fridge and serve with homemade whipped cream<\/a> and some chocolate curls.\r\nHow to Store Homemade Pudding<\/h2>\r\nIf you manage to have any leftovers, transfer the pudding to an airtight container, covering the top of the pudding with plastic wrap or butter, and enjoy within four days.\r\nHow to Customize Pudding<\/h2>\r\nNow that you're a pudding pro, there's no limit to the flavor combinations you can achieve by simply mixing and matching ingredients. Here are a few to get you started:\r\n\r\n \tMake it a mocha<\/strong>: Stir 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder in with the sugar mixture at the beginning of the recipe.<\/li>\r\n \tAdd some heat<\/strong>: Swap out the plain chocolate for Mexican chocolate instead.<\/li>\r\n \tIncorporate sweet flavors<\/strong>: Substitute white chocolate and orange extract for a fruity delight or whip it up with bananas<\/a> instead.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tLove old-fashioned pudding? Try these vintage desserts next!<\/div>\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/i>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t1 \/ 45<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/i>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \r\n\r\n\r\n[dam-video dam-id=\"28460\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\nGrandma\u2019s Old-Fashioned Strawberry Shortcake<\/a>\r\nWhen my grandma served this shortcake, she usually topped it with homemade vanilla ice cream. \u2014Angela Lively, Conroe, Texas<\/div>\r\nGet Recipe<\/a><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Marzipan Cups with Currant Jelly<\/a>These bite-size beauties look and taste gourmet, but they're easy to make and boast a delicate almond flavor. The hidden jelly surprise and pretty nut accent make them a nice addition to any treats tray. You can make them in advance and freeze them for up to three months, if you like. \u2014Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, OntarioGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Custard<\/a>This custard recipe uses simple ingredients and a no-frill method to make the perfect batch of belly-warming baked custard.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Homemade Butterscotch Pudding<\/a>Homemade pudding reminds me of my grandma and how she turned milk and eggs into creamy textures before my eyes. The butterscotch<\/a> in this recipe adds a caramel-sweet touch. \u2014Teresa Wilkes, Pembroke, GeorgiaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Almond Torte<\/a>Reduced-fat sour cream, egg whites and applesauce lighten up this gorgeous almond torte. A creamy custard filling lends richness. \u2014Kathy Olsen, Marlborough, New Hampshire\r\nGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Meringue Snowballs In Custard<\/a>My family has passed down this elegant dessert generation by generation. It started with my Russian great-grandmother, who traveled to America more than 100 years ago. I love continuing the tradition with her recipe. \u2014Tonya Burkhard, Palm Coast, FloridaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Mango Gelatin Salad<\/a>My Aunt Nannette often made this salad as a convenient make-ahead dish. The mango mold has hints of apricot and can be served with pork, chicken and beef\u2014or for dessert. \u2014Debra Sult, Chandler, ArizonaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Mocha Baked Alaskas<\/a>Make these baked Alaskas ahead of time\u2014you can torch the completed desserts and freeze them up to 24 hours before serving. \u2014Kerry Dingwall, Ponte Vedra, FloridaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Shoofly Cupcakes<\/a>These were my grandmother's specialty. To keep them from disappearing too quickly, she used to store them out of sight. \u2014Beth Adams, Jacksonville, FloridaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Charlotte\u2019s Green Tomato Pie<\/a>Green tomato pie makes an awesome conversation piece. I took it to a potluck and it was a delight to share. \u2014Charlotte McDaniel, Jacksonville, Alabama Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Strawberry Crunch Ice Cream Cake<\/a>While growing up, I loved treats from the ice cream truck that rolled through my neighborhood. This ice cream cake is inspired by one of those crunchy, strawberry novelties. \u2014Lisa Kaminski, Wauwatosa, WisconsinGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Divinity Candy<\/a>Like fluffy clouds from up on high, divinity candy truly earns its heavenly moniker.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Cherry Gelatin Supreme<\/a>When I was growing up, this yummy, easy dessert was always on the menu at holiday get-togethers. Years ago, my aunt gave me the recipe, and now when I make it for my family, I think of her. \u2014Janice Rathgeb, Brighton, IllinoisGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Lemon Icebox Pie<\/a>Our chilled, no-bake lemon icebox pie is the perfect indulgence on a hot summer's day.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Skillet Blueberry Slump<\/a>Don't let the homey, almost unappetizing name \"slump\" fool you. Easier than pie, these baked summer fruit desserts<\/a> are topped with tasty biscuits. If you love vintage food, learn how to make cottage cheese biscuits<\/a>.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Figgy Apple Brie Tart<\/a>Our holiday gatherings often included baked Brie. I transformed it into a dessert that\u2019s savory and sweet. It makes a wonderful appetizer, too. \u2014Kristie Schley, Severna Park, MarylandGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Fresh Plum Crumb Dessert<\/a>My old-fashioned dessert has the perfect sweet-tart balance with its fresh-plum tang and sweet, crispy topping. Imagine it warm from the oven, served with a scoop of ice cream\u2026yum! \u2014Janet Fahrenbruck-Lynch, Cincinnati, OhioGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Old-Fashioned Honey Baked Apples<\/a>My baked apple recipe is very old-fashioned yet tried and true. It's definitely a comfort food. \u2014Rachel Hamilton, Greenville, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups<\/a>A family friend gave me a simple way to make apple dumplings without lots of steps. I love the sticky cinnamon topping. \u2014Jenny Leighty, West Salem, Ohio Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Corn Pudding<\/a>This sweetheart of a side is delicious, rich and perfect on a weeknight table or as part of a holiday spread. If you want to step up your side dish game, this triple-corn pudding is an excellent choice.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Rice Pudding<\/a>Rice pudding, which uses leftover rice, makes the sweetest comfort dessert. Here's how to make rice pudding just as Grandma used to years ago.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Crunchy Candy Clusters<\/a>These cereal and marshmallow clusters are so simple that I make them for the holidays each year, as my family looks forward to them. \u2014Faye O'Bryan, Owensboro, KentuckyGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Lebkuchen<\/a>Dense, chewy lebkuchen is a great addition to your Christmas-cookie routine, but you can make it any time of year. While most lebkuchen contains ginger, this is a ginger-free version that uses other spices and molasses to achieve a similar flavor.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Lemon Chiffon Cake<\/a>Lemon chiffon cake is soft and spongy, with a luscious buttercream frosting. You'll want to eat this cake quickly, as chiffon cakes don't last very long\u2014but that shouldn't be a problem, given how delicious it is.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Peach Bavarian<\/a>Fruit molds are my specialty. This one, with its refreshing peach taste, makes a colorful salad or dessert. \u2014Adeline Piscitelli, Sayreville, New JerseyGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Scottish Shortbread<\/a>This three-ingredient traditional Scottish shortbread recipe makes beautifully buttery, crumbly biscuits to elevate tea time.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Italian Holiday Cookies<\/a>Many of our holiday traditions center around the foods my mother made while I was growing up. These cookies, which we called \"Strufoli\", bring back wonderful memories. \u2014Sue Seymour, Valatie, New YorkGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Icebox Cookies<\/a>This cookie recipe from my 91-year-old grandmother was my grandfather's favorite. She still makes them and sends us home with the dough so that we can make more whenever we want, I love to make a fresh batch when company drops in. \u2014Chris Paulsen, Glendale, ArizonaGo to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Hot Cross Buns<\/a>Whether enjoying them as a holiday celebration or as an everyday treat, this hot cross buns recipe is simple, relatively quick and easy to pull together, as well as subtly sweet and fruity. The yeast helps keep the buns light and fluffy too.Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>Mincemeat Trifle<\/a>Instead of fixing a traditional pie, I gussied up mincemeat by creating this fancy trifle. The recipe's a time-saver, since it can be prepared a day ahead. Go to Recipe<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t