Silky-smooth, lightly sweet, and finished with a vibrant fruity topping
This Creamy Vanilla Milk Pudding is made with simple pantry ingredients and comes together quickly on the stovetop. The texture is luxuriously smooth, and the homemade berry syrup adds the perfect sweet-tart contrast. Enjoy it warm for comfort or chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Follow the step-by-step instructions below, with pictures placed in the middle of the article to guide each stage.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
🍮 Vanilla Milk Pudding
- 2½ cups (600 ml) whole milk
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
🍓 Berry Syrup
- 1½ cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries – fresh or frozen)
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for a thicker syrup)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Pudding Base
In a bowl, whisk cold milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until completely smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.
Step 2: Cook the Pudding
Pour the mixture into a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and gently bubbling (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter if using.
Step 3: Pour & Cool
Pour the hot pudding into serving bowls or glasses.
Smooth the surface. Let cool slightly, or cover with plastic wrap touching the surface if chilling (prevents skin).
Step 4: Make the Berry Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine berries, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
Simmer over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, until berries soften and release their juices.
For thicker syrup, stir in cornstarch mixed with a little water and cook 1 more minute.
Step 5: Smooth or Chunky – Your Choice
For a smooth syrup, strain through a fine sieve.
For a rustic topping, leave the berries whole. Let cool slightly.
Step 6: Top & Serve
Spoon berry syrup over the pudding.
Serve warm or chill 1–2 hours for a firmer texture.
⭐ Pro Tips for Perfect Pudding
- Always dissolve cornstarch in cold milk first
- Stir constantly to avoid burning
- Whole milk gives the best texture
- Flavor twists: almond extract, lemon zest, or rose water
🍽 Serving Ideas
- Garnish with fresh berries or mint
- Add crushed biscuits or granola for crunch
- Serve in clear glasses for an elegant look
🥄 Final Result
A velvety vanilla pudding paired with a bright, fruity berry syrup—simple, comforting, and beautifully elegant.