Dairy-Free Vanilla Pudding Recipe
Introduction
This dairy-free vanilla pudding is creamy, smooth, and easy to make with simple ingredients. Perfect for those avoiding dairy, it delivers classic vanilla flavor with a light almond milk base. Enjoy it chilled or warm for a comforting dessert anytime.
Ingredients
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 3/4 cups unsweetened almond milk (plain or vanilla)
- 1/16 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 tablespoons sugar (white or raw)*
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil (or butter if not dairy-free)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium pot with the heat off, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and a few tablespoons of almond milk until smooth. This helps prevent clumping. Then whisk in the salt, sugar, vanilla extract, and the remaining almond milk.
- Step 2: Place the pot on medium heat and stir the mixture continuously as it comes to a bubble. Cook until it thickens, then turn off the heat and whisk in the coconut oil until fully combined.
- Step 3: Divide the pudding evenly into 4 small bowls or ramekins, about 1/2 cup each. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and set. For a smooth top without skin, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before covering.
Tips & Variations
- Use vanilla almond milk for extra sweetness and flavor without adding sugar.
- Swap coconut oil for butter if not avoiding dairy for a richer taste.
- For a flavored twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or a few mashed berries before chilling.
Storage
Store leftover pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, stirring well to restore creaminess. Cover with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming while chilling.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different plant milk?
Yes, oat milk or cashew milk work well as dairy-free alternatives, though coconut milk may make it thicker and richer.
Is this pudding safe to eat warm?
Absolutely! You can enjoy this pudding warm right after cooking, or chill it for a cooler dessert option.
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Dairy-Free Vanilla Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Dairy-Free Vanilla Pudding is a creamy, smooth dessert made without any dairy products, perfect for those seeking a plant-based alternative. Using almond milk, egg yolks, and cornstarch, it delivers the classic comfort of vanilla pudding with a gentle sweetness and luscious texture, enhanced further with a touch of refined coconut oil. Ready in under 30 minutes, it can be enjoyed warm or chilled for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
For the Pudding
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 3/4 cups unsweetened almond milk (plain or vanilla)
- 1/16 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 tablespoons sugar (white or raw)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil (or butter if not dairy-free)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a medium-sized pot with the heat off, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and a small splash (a few tablespoons) of the almond milk from the measured 1 3/4 cups until smooth to prevent clumping. Then whisk in the salt, sugar, vanilla extract, and the remaining almond milk until fully combined.
- Cook the Pudding: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and whisk in the refined coconut oil to add creaminess and a silky texture.
- Chill and Serve: Immediately divide the pudding evenly, about 1/2 cup each, into 4 small bowls or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to chill and set. To prevent a skin from forming on the surface, press plastic wrap gently directly onto the pudding before covering. Alternatively, the pudding can be enjoyed warm.
Notes
- Using refined coconut oil ensures a neutral flavor; if using butter, the pudding will have a richer taste but will not be dairy-free.
- To avoid lumps, do not add all almond milk at once; start with a small amount to dissolve the cornstarch and yolks smoothly.
- For a smoother texture, whisk constantly during cooking to prevent clumps and burning.
- Cover pudding surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation when chilling.
- This pudding can be customized with different plant-based milks or sweeteners as preferred.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: dairy-free vanilla pudding, almond milk pudding, vegan vanilla dessert, gluten-free pudding, stovetop pudding
