Decadent Vanilla Pudding with Crunchy Cracker Crumble
This luxurious vanilla pudding is silky, creamy, and perfectly balanced with a sweet-salty crunchy cracker crumble for an irresistible contrast in textures. It’s an elevated twist on classic comfort dessert!
Ingredients
Vanilla Pudding
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2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
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½ cup granulated sugar
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3 tbsp cornstarch
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¼ tsp salt
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2 large egg yolks
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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1½ tsp pure vanilla extract (or ½ vanilla bean, scraped)
Crunchy Cracker Crumble
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1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz or Club) – crushed
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3 tbsp melted butter
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)
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Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings
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Whipped cream
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Fresh berries
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Caramel drizzle
Instructions
1. Make the Vanilla Pudding
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In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
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Gradually whisk in milk and egg yolks until smooth.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
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Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla.
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Pour into serving dishes and chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
2. Prepare the Cracker Crumble
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Mix crushed crackers, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
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Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
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Let cool completely before sprinkling over pudding.
3. Assemble & Serve
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Top chilled pudding with crunchy crumble.
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Add whipped cream or berries if desired.
Why This Recipe Works
✅ Ultra-creamy texture from egg yolks and cornstarch.
✅ Sweet & salty contrast from the buttery cracker crumble.
✅ Easy to customize – try adding chocolate shavings or toasted nuts!
Serving Suggestions
🍽 Elegant Dessert: Serve in fancy glasses for a dinner party.
🍨 Comfort Treat: Enjoy warm pudding with cold crumble for contrast.
Would you like a chocolate or butterscotch variation? Let me know! 😊
