No-Bake Biscuit Pudding is a rich, creamy dessert that’s incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require any baking. It’s a comforting, no-fuss treat that layers crunchy biscuits with a smooth, velvety custard-like filling, often flavored with chocolate or vanilla. It’s perfect for a quick dessert when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to heat up the oven.
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for No-Bake Biscuit Pudding:
Ingredients:
- 1 pack of digestive biscuits or Marie biscuits (about 200g-250g)
- 2 cups full-fat milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm flavor)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for richness)
- Chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Milk Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the milk is warm, but not boiling.
2. Make the Custard Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little cold milk (about 1/4 cup) to create a smooth slurry.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the warm milk and sugar mixture, stirring constantly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, continuing to stir until it thickens to a custard-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter (if using) until smooth. If you’re making a chocolate version, add the cocoa powder at this stage, mixing until well combined.
3. Assemble the Pudding:
- Break the biscuits into halves or quarters. You want pieces that will fit into your serving dish and soak up the custard but still maintain their structure.
- In a rectangular or square serving dish (or individual cups), place a layer of the broken biscuits on the bottom.
- Pour a portion of the custard mixture over the biscuits, spreading it evenly to cover.
- Repeat this layering process, alternating between layers of biscuits and custard, until the dish is full. Be sure to finish with a layer of custard on top.
4. Chill the Pudding:
- Once the pudding is assembled, cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for 4-6 hours or overnight. The biscuits will absorb the custard and soften, giving the pudding its signature creamy, cake-like texture.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Before serving, optionally top with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra flavor and texture.
- Slice into squares or serve in individual portions.
Tips and Variations:
- Flavor Variations: You can add a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a few tablespoons of chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a chocolatey twist. Alternatively, you can infuse the milk with cinnamon or cardamom for added warmth and flavor.
- Add Fruits: For a fresh contrast, add a layer of sliced bananas, berries, or other fruits between the biscuit layers.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk, and use a non-dairy butter substitute to make the pudding dairy-free. You can also use a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup instead of sugar.
- For a Richer Flavor: Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk for a creamier, more indulgent pudding.
- Toppings: If you want to elevate the dessert further, top it with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce just before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- This No-Bake Biscuit Pudding is best served chilled, making it a great dessert for warm weather or when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual dinner parties.
- If you make it in individual servings (like in glasses or jars), it’s a fun and easy-to-serve treat for guests.
This No-Bake Biscuit Pudding is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that combines the flavors of a classic biscuit pudding with a creamy, custard-like filling. It’s the perfect comfort food that can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even better experience. Enjoy!
