Caramel Vanilla Pudding Cups

Name: Caramel Vanilla Pudding Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Dreamy Dessert Lab

I love making these Caramel Vanilla Pudding Cups for an easy dessert that never fails to impress. The creamy vanilla pudding paired with luscious caramel creates a delightful balance that satisfies any sweet tooth. Each time I whip up this recipe, I marvel at how simple ingredients can transform into a restaurant-quality treat. Whether it's for a special occasion or just because, these pudding cups bring joy to every serving, making them a favorite in my household.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:13:04.657Z

When I first decided to make these Caramel Vanilla Pudding Cups, I had a craving for something sweet yet simple. I mixed the silky vanilla pudding base with homemade caramel, which elevated the dessert to new heights. It’s incredible how this easy recipe comes together in just a few minutes, giving me more time to enjoy with friends and family.

To create the perfect layered effect, I learned that chilling the pudding for a bit helps in achieving the right consistency. Now, I love presenting these cups at gatherings, and they always disappear quickly!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Silky vanilla flavor complemented by rich caramel
Quick and easy to prepare with everyday ingredients
Ideal for dinner parties or cozy family nights

The Art of Layering

When crafting these Caramel Vanilla Pudding Cups, the key to achieving that beautiful layer of caramel atop the pudding lies in proper cooling. Allow the vanilla pudding to cool to room temperature before refrigerating, as this prevents condensation from forming, which can dilute the texture. Once it has set and is chilled, the warm caramel sauce will create a delightful contrast in temperature that enhances the experience with every spoonful.

Consider using clear glass cups for serving; not only do they showcase the lovely layers, but they also create an elegant presentation. This recipe is easily adjustable; if you prefer more caramel flavor, feel free to increase the amount of caramel sauce per serving or drizzle generously atop whipped cream.

Experiment with textures by adding layers of crushed cookies or nuts between the pudding and the caramel. This provides a delightful crunch that complements the smoothness of the pudding and the drizzle of caramel. Just be cautious not to overwhelm the pudding with too many ingredients; the main flavors should shine through.

Ingredient Insights

The quality of your ingredients greatly influences the flavor of the Caramel Vanilla Pudding Cups. For the vanilla pudding, I recommend using pure vanilla extract rather than imitation vanilla, as it provides a richer and more authentic flavor profile. Whole milk is preferred for its creaminess, but you can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option – just ensure they are unsweetened to keep the balance of sweetness consistent.

In the caramel sauce, using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the sauce better, which is essential for a well-balanced dessert. If you're short on time, ready-made caramel sauce can be used, but make sure to warm it slightly to achieve that perfect drizzling consistency. If using something thicker, you might need to thin it with a splash of cream or water to get it to the right pourable texture.

While granulated sugar is standard for caramel, you can also try using brown sugar for a deeper flavor. The molasses in brown sugar will lend a subtle richness to the caramel sauce. However, keep in mind that it alters the color of the sauce to a darker hue, so the visual effect will differ slightly from the golden caramel you achieve with white sugar.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Pudding

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce

1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Make the Vanilla Pudding

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour the pudding into individual cups and let it cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Caramel Sauce

In another saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden brown. Add the butter and stir until melted. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, then add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow to cool slightly before drizzling it over the chilled vanilla pudding.

Serve

Once the pudding has set, pour the warm caramel sauce over each cup. You may also top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch. Enjoy your delicious Caramel Vanilla Pudding Cups!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar in the caramel sauce. This recipe can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining.

Make-Ahead Tips

The beauty of these Caramel Vanilla Pudding Cups is that they can be prepared a day in advance, making them an excellent choice for dinner parties or gatherings. After completing the pudding, simply cover each cup with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. They should remain fresh for 2-3 days without losing their creamy texture.

When preparing for an event, consider making the caramel sauce the same day as the pudding to ensure it stays fresh and flavorful. Warm caramel sauce can be refrigerated, but it’s best to serve it slightly warm. Just a quick reheat in the microwave or a small saucepan over low heat will bring it back to its perfect drizzling consistency.

If you're scaling the recipe, it holds up well. Doubling the ingredients is straightforward without any special adjustments. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as larger batches might take a little longer to heat through or thicken when making the pudding.

Serving Variations

These pudding cups can be personalized in many ways! For a chocolate twist, consider folding in some melted chocolate into the vanilla pudding before chilling. This creates a delicious chocolate vanilla pudding that pairs beautifully with caramel. Alternatively, you could add in shredded coconut or toasted almond slivers for added flavor and texture.

For a refreshing contrast, you might also include a layer of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or blueberries, underneath the vanilla pudding. Their natural acidity will help balance the sweetness of the pudding and caramel, making each bite a delightful combination of flavors.

Finally, don't shy away from garnishing with fresh mint or edible flowers for an elegant touch. Not only do they enhance the presentation, but they also add a fragrant note that elevates the entire dessert experience. Each serving can become a little unique with different garnishing techniques, making your dessert more visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat milk for the pudding?

Yes, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less creamy.

→ How can I store leftover pudding?

Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the caramel sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The caramel sauce can be made a week ahead and reheated gently before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in the caramel?

You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich. Adding a little butter can help improve the texture.