Simple Bakery-Style Pudding with Golden Caramel

Creating a simple bakery-style pudding with golden caramel is a delightful way to enjoy a rich, creamy dessert. Here’s an easy recipe for a delicious pudding topped with homemade caramel sauce:

Ingredients:

For the Pudding:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large egg yolks (optional, for extra richness)

For the Golden Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Make the Pudding:

• Combine Dry Ingredients:
• In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
• Add Milk:
• Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
• Cook the Pudding:
• Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and comes to a gentle boil. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Optional Egg Yolks:
• If using egg yolks for extra richness, lightly beat them in a small bowl. Temper the yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly. Then, whisk the tempered yolks back into the saucepan.
• Finish the Pudding:
• Continue to cook the pudding for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it’s thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
• Cool:
• Pour the pudding into serving dishes and let it cool slightly before refrigerating. Chill for at least 2 hours or until set.

2. Make the Golden Caramel Sauce:

• Melt the Sugar:
• In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon as the sugar melts. Continue to cook until the sugar turns a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it.
• Add Butter:
• Once the sugar is melted and caramelized, carefully add the butter pieces. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so stir until the butter is completely melted and combined.
• Add Cream:
• Gradually stir in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble again. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce is smooth.
• Season and Cool:
• Stir in the salt and vanilla extract. Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before using. It will thicken as it cools.

3. Assemble and Serve:

• Top the Pudding:
• Once the pudding is set, drizzle the warm or room-temperature caramel sauce over the top of each serving.
• Optional Garnishes:
• Garnish with a pinch of sea salt or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

This simple bakery-style pudding with golden caramel is creamy, rich, and has the perfect balance of sweetness and a touch of bitterness from the caramel. Enjoy!