If you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert that never fails to satisfy, this homemade lemon and vanilla pudding is just the treat you need! Ready in just 5 minutes of active prep time, these puddings are delicate, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for both adults and children, this dessert will bring joy to you and your loved ones with every bite. Let’s dive into these simple and delicious recipes!
Ingredients
- 400 ml (13.5 fl oz) milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 40 g (1.4 oz) sugar
- 15 g (0.5 oz) cornstarch
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 100 g (3.5 oz) condensed milk
- Cinnamon, cocoa, or chocolate (for decoration)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon and Vanilla Milk Base
- Heat the milk:
- In a medium saucepan, pour 400 ml of milk and add the zest of 1 lemon and 1 teaspoon of vanilla sugar.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the milk mixture until it begins to boil, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Infuse the flavors:
- Once the milk reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the lemon zest and vanilla to infuse into the milk.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Base
- Whisk the egg yolks and sugar:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks and 40 g of sugar until the mixture becomes pale and creamy.
- Add the cornstarch:
- Gradually whisk in 15 g of cornstarch to the egg yolk mixture until smooth and lump-free.
- Combine with the milk:
- Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to combine. This will temper the eggs and prevent them from curdling.
- Cook the pudding:
- Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Cool the pudding:
- Once thickened, remove the pudding from the heat and let it cool down to room temperature.
Step 3: Make the Lemon-Condensed Milk Layer
- Mix lemon juice and condensed milk:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the juice of 1 lemon with 100 g of condensed milk.
- Beat the mixture until it thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill the Pudding
- Layer the pudding:
- In individual serving glasses or bowls, spoon a layer of the cooled lemon and vanilla pudding into the bottom.
- Add a layer of the lemon-condensed milk mixture on top of the pudding layer.
- Repeat if desired to create multiple layers.
- Decorate:
- Sprinkle the top of each pudding with a dusting of cinnamon, cocoa, or grated chocolate for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.
- Chill the dessert:
- Place the assembled puddings in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow them to set and chill.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve chilled:
- After chilling, serve the puddings directly from the refrigerator. The layers will have set beautifully, creating a creamy and refreshing dessert.
- Enjoy the delightful flavors:
- Enjoy this delicate and delicious no-bake pudding with your loved ones, and watch as it becomes a new family favorite!
Cook’s Notes
- Lemon Zest: Be sure to zest the lemon before juicing it. The zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the vanilla perfectly.
- Cornstarch: For a thicker pudding, you can increase the cornstarch to 20 g. If you prefer a lighter texture, reduce it slightly.
- Decoration: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! Crushed cookies, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of honey can add a unique twist to the dessert.
Variations
Berry Delight
Add a layer of fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries between the pudding and lemon-condensed milk layers for a fruity twist.
Coconut-Lemon Pudding
Replace the milk with coconut milk for a tropical flavor, and garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
Chocolate-Lemon Pudding
Mix 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder into the lemon-condensed milk mixture for a chocolatey layer that pairs wonderfully with the lemon and vanilla.
Nutty Crunch
Top the pudding with chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these puddings up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover puddings in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.
3. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute, adjusting the amount to taste.
4. What if I don’t have lemon?
You can substitute the lemon with orange or lime for a different citrus flavor, or omit it entirely and stick with a vanilla base.
5. Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk substitute for a dairy-free version.
These homemade lemon and vanilla puddings are a quick and easy no-bake dessert that will bring joy to you and your loved ones. With their delicate texture and refreshing flavors, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them to guests or enjoying a sweet treat at home. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dessert, and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more delicious recipes!
