This homemade Butterscotch Pudding is smooth, creamy, and packed with rich caramel-like flavor from brown sugar and butter. The pudding comes together on the stovetop with simple ingredients and has a soft, silky texture that makes it perfect for an easy homemade dessert.

Serve it chilled with a little whipped cream, chopped pecans, or a light drizzle of butterscotch sauce. It's a comforting dessert for family dinners, holidays, or whenever you want something sweet without complicated baking.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Rest Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Servings: 6 people

Difficulty: Easy

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Smooth and creamy texture.
• Rich brown sugar and butter flavor.
• Easy stovetop dessert.
• Made with simple ingredients.
• No complicated baking required.
• Perfect for make-ahead desserts.
• Delicious served cold.
• Great for family dinners and holidays.

How to Make Butterscotch Pudding

1. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt.

This helps distribute the cornstarch evenly before adding the liquid.

2. Add the Milk and Cream

Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.

3. Cook the Pudding

Place the saucepan over medium heat.

Cook while whisking constantly until the mixture becomes thick and begins to gently bubble.

Continue cooking for about 1–2 minutes after it thickens.

4. Add the Egg Yolks

Whisk the egg yolks in a separate bowl.

Slowly add some of the hot pudding mixture to the yolks while whisking continuously.

Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan and cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.

5. Add Butter and Vanilla

Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until completely melted and smooth.

6. Chill the Pudding

Pour the warm pudding into six small serving dishes.

Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of each pudding to prevent a skin from forming.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

7. Serve

Serve chilled with whipped cream, chopped pecans, or a small drizzle of butterscotch sauce if desired.

Tips for Perfect Butterscotch Pudding

• Whisk constantly while cooking to prevent lumps.
• Use dark brown sugar for a deeper butterscotch flavor.
• Temper the egg yolks slowly to prevent them from scrambling.
• Do not let the pudding boil aggressively.
• Strain the pudding before chilling if you want an extra-smooth texture.
• Press plastic wrap directly against the surface to prevent a skin.
• Chill the pudding completely before serving.

Delicious Recipe Variations

Butterscotch Pecan Pudding

Add finely chopped toasted pecans to the pudding before chilling.

Chocolate Butterscotch Pudding

Add 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate version.

Salted Butterscotch Pudding

Add a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top before serving.

Banana Butterscotch Pudding

Layer sliced bananas with the chilled pudding and whipped cream.

Coconut Butterscotch Pudding

Replace part of the whole milk with canned coconut milk for a subtle coconut flavor.

What to Serve with Butterscotch Pudding

• Whipped cream
• Chopped pecans
• Toasted walnuts
• Fresh banana slices
• Shortbread cookies
• Vanilla wafers
• Vanilla ice cream
• Fresh berries
• Butterscotch sauce

How to Store Butterscotch Pudding

Cover the pudding tightly and store it in the refrigerator.

It will keep well for up to 4 days.

Keep the pudding chilled until ready to serve.

Can Butterscotch Pudding Be Frozen?

Freezing is not recommended for the best texture.

The dairy and egg-based pudding can become watery or grainy after thawing.

For the best results, prepare it ahead and refrigerate instead.