Strawberry Pudding Recipe

Strawberry pudding is a delightful dessert that is both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With its rich flavor and smooth texture, it makes for a perfect treat during the strawberry season or at any time of the year. Let’s explore how to make this delicious recipe step by step.

Ingredients Needed

• Fresh strawberries – 2 cups
• Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup
• Whole milk – 2 cups
• Heavy cream – 1/2 cup
• Cornstarch – 3 tablespoons
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – a pinch
• Butter (unsalted) – 2 tablespoons

Preparing the Strawberries

Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Hull and slice the strawberries into small pieces. This helps in releasing more juice and speeds up the cooking process.

In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries and sugar. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries are soft and the mixture is syrupy. This process usually takes about 10 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Making the Pudding Base

In another saucepan, pour in the milk and heavy cream. Slowly bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Be sure to stir gently to avoid any scorching on the bottom of the pan. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water to form a smooth paste. This keeps the starch from becoming lumpy when added to the hot liquid.

Once the milk mixture is hot, stir in the cornstarch paste slowly. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. When thickened, remove from the heat.

Combining Pudding and Strawberry Mixture

Stir the strawberry mixture into the thickened pudding. The sugar from the strawberries will further sweeten the pudding. Use a hand blender or food processor to make the consistency smoother. If you prefer some texture, you can lightly mash the strawberries instead.

Adding the Finishing Touches

Return the saucepan to the stove over low heat. Add the butter and stir until fully melted and incorporated. This adds a richness to the pudding. Taste the pudding and adjust the sweetness if necessary, adding a bit more sugar if desired. Continue stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.

Chilling and Serving

Transfer the pudding to a bowl or individual serving cups. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling stage helps to set the pudding properly and allows flavors to meld.

Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a dollop of whipped cream before serving. A sprinkle of mint leaves can also add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

Tips for Best Results

• Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
• If strawberries are not in season, frozen berries can be used.
• Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the strawberries.
• To avoid a skin forming on the pudding, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before chilling.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and cream with almond milk or coconut milk.

Strawberry pudding not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also impresses guests with its simple elegance. This recipe allows you to enjoy the natural sweetness of strawberries paired with the creamy texture of the pudding. It’s a perfect blend of taste and simplicity.