Milk puddings are an all-time favorite dessert enjoyed by people of all ages. This No-Bake 3-Ingredient Milk Pudding Dessert is a simple, creamy, and flavorful treat that doesn’t require baking. With just three essential ingredients—milk, sugar, and eggs—you can prepare a smooth, rich pudding that is easy to make, yet indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just treating yourself to something sweet after dinner, this dessert is sure to please. Below, we’ll guide you through every step of making this wonderful dessert, including tips, tricks, and variations to make it your own.
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 2 cups milk (500ml): This is the primary base for your pudding. Whole milk is recommended for a creamy texture, but you can use lower-fat milk or even non-dairy milk alternatives like almond milk if you prefer.
- 1/3 cup sugar (70g): Sweetness is essential in making the pudding delightful. You can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your personal taste. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar, or if you have a sweet tooth, add more.
- 2 eggs: These are the key ingredients that help thicken and set the pudding. Make sure to use fresh eggs for the best results.
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adding vanilla will enhance the flavor of the pudding, creating a deeper and more aromatic profile. If you’re using a non-dairy milk, the vanilla can also help balance out the flavor.
- Garnishes (Optional): Chopped nuts, caramel sauce, or whipped cream can be used to add texture and extra flavor to the dessert. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!
Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Pudding
- Heat the Milk:
Begin by pouring the 2 cups of milk into a medium-sized saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat, adding the sugar into the milk. Stir occasionally to help the sugar dissolve into the milk. Heat the mixture until it is hot, but be careful not to let it boil. The milk should start steaming, and you should see small bubbles forming around the edges of the saucepan. This ensures that the milk is warm enough to combine with the eggs without scrambling them. - Whisk the Eggs:
While the milk is warming, crack 2 eggs into a separate bowl. Using a whisk or a fork, beat the eggs until the yolks and whites are fully blended. The goal is to make sure the eggs are smooth and homogenous. This will help prevent any lumps from forming when the eggs are mixed with the milk.
Step 2: Tempering the Eggs
- Temper the Eggs:
In order to add the eggs into the warm milk without cooking them too quickly (which could result in scrambled eggs), you need to temper the eggs. To do this, slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk into the beaten eggs while whisking constantly. This helps raise the temperature of the eggs gradually. Start with just a few tablespoons of the hot milk and continue whisking as you add it. - Combine the Egg Mixture with the Milk:
Once you’ve tempered the eggs, slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk, stirring constantly. This ensures that the eggs are evenly distributed and do not form clumps. Keep the heat on low during this process to prevent curdling.
Step 3: Cooking the Pudding
- Thicken the Pudding:
Continue cooking the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly. You’ll need to be patient here, as the pudding will thicken gradually. As it thickens, you’ll notice it starts to coat the back of a spoon. This is a good indication that the pudding has reached the right consistency. Don’t let the mixture come to a boil, as this can cause the eggs to curdle, leaving you with a lumpy texture instead of a smooth, silky pudding. - Add Vanilla Extract (Optional):
Once the pudding has thickened, remove it from the heat. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it now. The vanilla will give the pudding a warm, aromatic flavor. Stir it well to incorporate.
Step 4: Chilling the Pudding
- Cool the Pudding:
After removing the pudding from the heat, allow it to cool to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This helps prevent any condensation from forming when you place it in the refrigerator. - Refrigerate the Pudding:
Once the pudding has cooled slightly, transfer it into individual serving bowls or a large serving dish. Make sure to cover the pudding with plastic wrap or a lid. The plastic wrap should touch the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming on top as it chills. Place the pudding in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to fully set. The pudding will become firmer and more creamy as it chills.
Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
- Garnish (Optional):
After the pudding has chilled and set, you can add a garnish to elevate the dessert. Chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, provide a nice crunch and contrast to the creamy texture of the pudding. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness, and whipped cream gives it a light, airy topping. You could even sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or cocoa powder for a spicy twist. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once garnished, the milk pudding is ready to be served. Spoon out portions of this creamy dessert and enjoy it with a cup of tea, coffee, or as a standalone treat. The smooth texture and subtle sweetness make this pudding a comforting and satisfying dessert.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Sugar: 15 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and exact serving sizes.)
Tips for Making the Perfect Milk Pudding
1. Use Whole Milk for Creaminess:
For the richest and creamiest texture, whole milk is recommended. The higher fat content creates a luxurious mouthfeel that enhances the pudding’s indulgent nature. However, you can substitute it with lower-fat milk if you prefer.
2. Monitor the Heat Carefully:
One of the key steps to making perfect milk pudding is controlling the temperature. Always cook the pudding mixture over low heat. If the heat is too high, the eggs can curdle, and the pudding will not have the desired smooth texture.
3. Tempering Is Essential:
The tempering step helps ensure that the eggs don’t cook too quickly when combined with the hot milk. If you skip this step, you might end up with bits of scrambled eggs in your pudding, which can ruin the consistency.
4. Make It Your Own with Flavorings:
While the basic recipe uses vanilla extract for flavor, you can experiment with other extracts such as almond, hazelnut, or lemon. You could also add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of rum for a unique twist.
5. Adjust Sweetness to Your Preference:
The amount of sugar can be easily adjusted based on your taste. If you prefer a less sweet pudding, feel free to reduce the sugar, or for a sweeter treat, add a little more.
FAQs
1. Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
Yes! Almond milk is a great alternative, but the texture of the pudding may vary slightly. You may need to use a thicker almond milk or add a bit more cornstarch to achieve the desired consistency.
2. How do I prevent my pudding from curdling?
The key to preventing curdling is to temper the eggs slowly with hot milk and cook the mixture on low heat while stirring constantly. Avoid boiling the milk or egg mixture.
3. Can I add chocolate to the pudding?
Absolutely! You can melt some chocolate and mix it into the pudding during the cooking stage. You could also top the pudding with chocolate shavings or drizzle some melted chocolate on top before serving.
4. Can I make this pudding dairy-free?
Yes! You can make this pudding dairy-free by using a non-dairy milk alternative such as coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be creamy and delicious.
5. How long can I store this pudding?
The pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to prevent a skin from forming on the surface. It’s best served within the first 2 days for the freshest taste.
Conclusion
This No-Bake 3-Ingredient Milk Pudding Dessert is a classic treat that brings comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Its simplicity and rich texture make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you enjoy it plain or choose to add toppings and flavors of your choice, this pudding is versatile, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Best of all, it’s easy to make with minimal ingredients, yet it delivers a deeply satisfying dessert that will impress your friends and family. So go ahead, whip up a batch today, and indulge in this creamy, sweet delight!