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Instructions for Making Simple Bakery Pudding with Golden Caramel
Step 1: Make the Pudding Base
- Combine the Milk and Egg Yolks: In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s warm (but not boiling). In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and salt until the mixture becomes smooth and pale yellow.
- Thicken the Pudding: Slowly pour a small amount of warm milk into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs (this prevents them from scrambling). Gradually add the rest of the warm milk, continuing to whisk until everything is fully combined.
- Cook the Mixture: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook it over medium heat, stirring constantly. You’ll need to keep stirring to prevent the custard from sticking to the bottom of the pan. As the mixture heats up, it will begin to thicken. Once it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes), remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor and mix until smooth.
- Cool the Pudding: Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Let it cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours (or until ready to serve). This will allow the pudding to set and develop its rich texture.
Step 2: Make the Golden Caramel
- Caramelize the Sugar: In a medium saucepan, melt the granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula. The sugar will begin to melt and turn into a golden-brown liquid. Be patient and keep stirring to prevent burning.
- Add Butter and Cream: Once the sugar has completely melted and achieved a golden color, remove the pan from the heat. Add the butter and stir until it’s completely melted. Then, carefully add the heavy cream (it will bubble up), and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Finish the Caramel: Stir in a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Let the caramel cool for a few minutes before drizzling it over the chilled pudding.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Serve the Pudding: Once the pudding has chilled and is set, spoon a generous amount of golden caramel over the top of each serving. You can let the caramel drip down the sides for an extra touch of elegance.
- Optional Garnishes: If desired, garnish the pudding with a sprinkle of crushed nuts, a dollop of whipped cream, or a few fresh berries to add extra texture and flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve the pudding immediately or store it in the fridge for later. The creamy pudding and sweet caramel will remain a delightful treat for several days.
Tips for the Perfect Bakery Pudding with Golden Caramel
- Be Patient with the Caramel: Caramelizing sugar requires attention and patience. If the sugar begins to crystallize before it turns golden, you can try adding a small amount of water to help it melt evenly.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter caramel sauce, feel free to add a little more sugar. Conversely, reduce the sugar in the pudding base if you like a more balanced sweetness.
- Make Ahead: This pudding can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The caramel sauce can be stored separately and reheated before serving.
Conclusion: A Simple Yet Elegant Dessert
This Simple Bakery Pudding with Golden Caramel is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly indulgent and comforting. With a creamy, velvety custard base and a rich caramel topping, it’s the kind of dessert that will impress anyone, whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed after a quiet meal at home.
Easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion, this dessert will quickly become a go-to recipe in your collection. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this decadent treat, and savor the sweet flavors of homemade indulgence.
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