National Butterscotch Pudding Day

Celebrate National Butterscotch Pudding Day with a Homemade Recipe!

Welcome back to Good Thyme Gal Food & Lifestyle Blog, friends! Today, we’re diving into a nostalgic dessert that’s rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible—butterscotch pudding. If you’re a fan of smooth, velvety desserts that transport you straight back to childhood, then mark your calendars because September 19th is National Butterscotch Pudding Day!

Butterscotch pudding is the perfect blend of caramel-like sweetness and a hint of buttery warmth, all in one spoonful. And let me tell you, while store-bought options are fine in a pinch, there’s nothing quite like making it from scratch. So, get your whisk ready because I’m sharing my go-to butterscotch pudding recipe that you can whip up at home.

The Sweet Origins of Butterscotch

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s take a minute to talk about the magic of butterscotch. Although it’s often confused with caramel, butterscotch has its own distinct flavor. Caramel is made by melting sugar, while butterscotch is a delightful combination of brown sugar and butter. This gives it a deeper, more complex flavor with those warm, toasty notes that make it perfect for fall desserts.

The origin of butterscotch dates back to the early 19th century, believed to have come from Yorkshire, England. It was originally made as a hard candy but quickly evolved into sauces, spreads, and—our favorite—puddings! If you love that rich, golden-brown flavor of butterscotch, you’re going to love how it transforms into a silky, creamy dessert in this pudding recipe.

Why We Love National Butterscotch Pudding Day

Now, you might wonder why we need a day dedicated to butterscotch pudding. But why not?! This classic comfort dessert doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves, so National Butterscotch Pudding Day is the perfect excuse to give it some well-earned attention.

It’s a dessert that bridges the gap between old-fashioned and modern, satisfying both those of us who crave a taste of simpler times and those who love a rich, indulgent treat. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy night in, impressing friends at a dinner party, or just want something sweet after dinner, butterscotch pudding hits the spot every time.

Homemade Butterscotch Pudding Recipe

This National Butterscotch Pudding Day, take the time to savor a dessert that’s as comforting as it is indulgent. Whether you’re a butterscotch fan from way back or just discovering its rich flavors, this homemade pudding is sure to become a favorite.

Now, let’s get to the good part—making this delectable pudding yourself! The recipe is easy to follow, and the result is a smooth, velvety pudding that’s so much better than anything you’ll find in a box.

Butterscotch Pudding Recipe

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

• 3 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

• Butterscotch chips or caramel sauce for garnish (optional)

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Cooking Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it starts to melt and bubble, about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to stir constantly so the sugar doesn’t burn, but let it get a bit darker for that deep, toasty flavor.

2.Slowly whisk in the milk, heavy cream, and salt. The mixture will sputter at first, but keep whisking until everything is smooth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1/4 cup of cold water until smooth. This will thicken your pudding.

4. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a ladleful of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly, to warm them up without scrambling. Once combined, pour the egg mixture back into the pot.

5. Add the cornstarch mixture to the pot and continue to whisk over medium heat until the pudding thickens, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture coats the back of a spoon.

6. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

7. Pour the pudding into individual serving bowls or one large bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Let the pudding cool for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator before serving.

8. Once chilled, top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a sprinkle of butterscotch chips for extra indulgence. Then dig in and enjoy the creamy, buttery goodness!

A Few Tips for Perfect Butterscotch Pudding

- Don’t rush the caramelization process.- Let the brown sugar and butter cook slowly, as this is where that deep butterscotch flavor comes from.

- Use whole milk and heavy cream- for a luxuriously smooth texture, but you can substitute with lower-fat milk if needed—just know it may be slightly less creamy.

- Make it ahead!- This pudding needs time to chill, so it’s the perfect dessert to make a day in advance.

Time to Treat Yourself

Don’t forget to share your butterscotch pudding creations with me on Instagram using #GoodThymeGal—I can’t wait to see your delicious versions!

Until next time, happy cooking!