Name: Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup cornstarch; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; Whipped cream; Fresh berries for topping (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re searching for that perfect nostalgic treat that’s both comforting and elegant, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: the Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert. Imagine a silky, delicate pudding with the lush aroma of pure vanilla, a creamy spoonful that transports you right back to simpler times — yet still feels fancy enough for your next dinner party. Whether enjoyed solo for a cozy night in or dressed up with fruit for guests, this dessert is proof that a handful of simple staples can create something truly magical.

Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert works double duty: providing both flavor and the dreamy, smooth texture that makes this dish so special. There’s no need for complicated elements when each component brings out the best in the others. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

2 cups whole milk: Delivers creaminess and a rich base that holds up to cooking and chilling.
½ cup heavy cream: Adds a luscious mouthfeel and takes the dessert from everyday to extraordinary.
½ cup granulated sugar: Provides just the right sweetness to highlight the pure vanilla flavor.
¼ cup cornstarch: The secret to that irresistibly velvety, thick texture without needing eggs.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances out the sweetness perfectly.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Gives a little extra gloss and a decadent finish to the pudding.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: The star ingredient that infuses every bite with deep, aromatic vanilla notes.
Whipped cream and fresh berries (optional): Perfect for adding color and a burst of freshness as a final flourish.

How to Make Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert

Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Whisking these together before adding liquid is a small but crucial step—it ensures you won’t end up with any pesky lumps later and helps the cornstarch distribute smoothly for that signature Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert creaminess.

Step 2: Whisk in Milk and Cream

Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. Take your time! This slow mixing ensures a uniform blend, setting the stage for a thick yet delicately smooth dessert base.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

Place the saucepan over medium heat and keep stirring as the mixture cooks. It will take about 7–10 minutes for the pudding to thicken up and start bubbling gently. The key here is patience and constant movement. Don’t rush—this is where that classic Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert texture is born.

Step 4: Add Butter and Vanilla

Once the pudding has thickened, pull the pan off the heat and immediately stir in the unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract. These last two make a world of difference: the butter gives it shine and silkiness, while the vanilla turns the whole thing wonderfully fragrant.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Pour the creamy mixture into individual ramekins or small serving dishes. Let them cool for a bit on the counter, then cover and pop them into the fridge for at least 2 hours. Don’t skip the chilling—this is where the Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert sets into its perfectly spoonable form.

How to Serve Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert

Garnishes

Top each serving with a delicate swoosh of whipped cream and a few fresh berries for color and a gentle tart contrast. A sprinkling of shaved chocolate or a drizzle of caramel sauce isn’t traditional, but it can be absolutely irresistible. The garnish is your chance to add a little wow factor to the Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert!

Side Dishes

Bringing out this vanilla treat at the end of a meal pairs beautifully with crisp butter cookies or shortbread fingers. A small bowl of mixed berries or even a poached fruit compote adds a lovely fresh note that complements the richness of the Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering this pudding in a glass with cubed pound cake or cookies to make a playful parfait, or spoon it into tiny tart shells for the cutest mini desserts. For gatherings, serve it in small mason jars or elegant tea cups – guests will love the extra touch. However you present it, the Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert is always the star.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert tasting its best, cover each dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a handy make-ahead option for dinner parties or family treats.

Freezing

While pudding is best enjoyed fresh and chilled, you can freeze individual ramekins for up to a month. Be sure to place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing to help prevent ice crystals from forming on this Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert.

Reheating

If you prefer your pudding a touch warmer (especially lovely in winter!), just microwave an individual serving in short bursts, stirring gently until just warmed through. Be mindful not to overheat—the Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert should never be boiling hot, just pleasantly tepid.

FAQs

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Absolutely! Substituting with almond, soy, or oat milk works well, though the pudding may be slightly less creamy. Be sure to choose unsweetened versions for best results.

Is it possible to double the recipe?

Yes, the Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert recipe easily doubles for a crowd. Simply use a larger saucepan and maintain constant stirring so the pudding thickens evenly.

What if my pudding is lumpy?

No worries—simply whisk vigorously while still warm or even strain the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve. This will restore that desired velvety consistency.

Can I add other flavors?

Definitely! Try infusing the milk with a cinnamon stick, splash of coffee, or citrus zest before making the pudding for a fun twist on Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert.

How do I know when it’s set?

After chilling for at least 2 hours, the pudding should jiggle slightly but hold its shape when scooped. If still loose, let it chill a bit longer for that perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making this Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert enough—there’s just something about that gentle sweetness and pure vanilla aroma that never fails to bring a smile. Whether you keep it classic or spin it your own way, you’ll see just how rewarding homemade pudding can be. Go ahead, treat yourself and those you love!

Soft and Sweet Vanilla Dessert Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this soft and sweet vanilla dessert that is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delectable treat. This homemade pudding is rich with the flavors of vanilla and topped with whipped cream and fresh berries for an extra touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Toppings:

Whipped cream
Fresh berries for topping (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until smooth.
Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat, cook while stirring constantly until thickened and bubbling, about 7–10 minutes.
Finish the Pudding: Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla extract. Pour into serving dishes, let cool slightly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Serve: Top with whipped cream and fresh berries before serving.