Creamy Homemade Vanilla Pudding (Printer-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Pudding

01 - 2 ½ cups whole milk
02 - ½ cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 3 large egg yolks
05 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

# Let's Cook!:

01 - In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
02 - In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add hot milk to egg mixture, whisking continuously.
03 - Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
04 - Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
05 - Transfer pudding to individual bowls or one large dish. Cover with plastic wrap directly on surface to prevent skin. Chill for at least 2 hours.

# Cook's Notes:

01 - Can substitute part of milk with heavy cream for extra richness
02 - Use vanilla beans instead of extract for more intense flavor
03 - Stir constantly to prevent lumps and burning