If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as comforting as it is refreshing, Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit is about to become your new go-to recipe. Creamy, velvety pudding meets a medley of vibrant, juicy fruits—every spoonful is an invitation to slow down and savor the moment. Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner, a summer potluck, or just because, Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit brings a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of joy to any table.

Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dessert keeps things deliciously simple, relying on a handful of pantry staples and fresh, colorful fruit. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the richness of milk to the brightness of the fruit, ensuring your Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit turns out perfect every time.

Whole Milk: Delivers that classic creamy pudding texture that’s both luscious and satisfying.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pudding just right, letting the vanilla and fruit flavors shine through.
Cornstarch: The secret to silky smooth pudding—no lumps, just pure creaminess.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and deepen the flavors.
Egg Yolks: Adds richness and helps create a velvety, custard-like consistency.
Pure Vanilla Extract: The star flavor—use the best you can for that unmistakable vanilla aroma.
Unsalted Butter: Rounds out the pudding with a subtle, glossy finish.
Mixed Fresh Fruit: Strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, mango—pick your favorites for a burst of color and juicy freshness.
Mint Leaves (optional): A fresh, fragrant garnish that makes each serving feel extra special.

How to Make Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. This helps prevent any lumps from forming later and ensures your Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit has that signature smooth texture. Take a moment to admire how these simple ingredients will soon transform into something so decadent!

Step 2: Add the Milk

Slowly pour the whole milk into the saucepan while whisking continuously. The goal here is to fully dissolve the dry ingredients, creating a creamy base that will thicken beautifully over the stove. Don’t rush—this extra care pays off in the final pudding.

Step 3: Cook the Pudding Base

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. This will take about 6 to 8 minutes. Keep stirring so nothing sticks or scorches—the anticipation is part of the fun!

Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. To prevent scrambling, gradually add a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly. This “tempering” step gently brings the yolks up to temperature so they blend seamlessly into the pudding.

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Pudding

Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring all the while, until the pudding thickens a bit more and turns glossy. This is the moment when Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit really comes together—creamy, rich, and irresistibly smooth.

Step 6: Add Butter and Vanilla

Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. The butter adds a luxurious finish while the vanilla fills your kitchen with that incredible, cozy aroma. Mix until everything is perfectly blended.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Pour the pudding into individual cups or a large bowl. Let it cool for a few minutes, then cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours—patience is key for that perfect, chilled pudding!

Step 8: Top with Fresh Fruit and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, arrange a generous amount of fresh fruit on top of each pudding cup. Add a sprig of mint for a hint of green and a burst of fragrance. There you have it—Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit, ready to wow your taste buds and your guests!

How to Serve Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit

Garnishes

The right garnish takes your Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit from delightful to downright dazzling. A scatter of vibrant berries, a few slices of jewel-toned kiwi, or even a twist of lemon zest can add visual appeal and a pop of flavor. Don’t forget a sprig of fresh mint for that classic, refreshing touch!

Side Dishes

This pudding is wonderful on its own, but if you’re serving a crowd or want to round out a dessert spread, try pairing it with crisp butter cookies, delicate shortbread, or a platter of extra fresh fruit. The creamy pudding contrasts beautifully with crunchy or chewy sides, making every bite even more satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your imagination run wild when presenting Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit! Layer it in clear glasses for a parfait-style treat, spoon it into tart shells for a fancy twist, or serve it family-style in a large bowl for everyone to dig in. Individual mason jars also make for charming, portable desserts at picnics or parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though they tend to disappear quickly!), cover the pudding tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and creamy for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or special occasions.

Freezing

While Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the plain pudding for up to one month. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving. Add the fresh fruit topping just before eating for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you prefer your pudding a little warmer (especially on chilly days), gently heat individual portions in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Stir well and let it cool slightly before topping with fruit. Remember, the fruit is best added after reheating to keep it tasting fresh and vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or non-dairy milk for this recipe?

Absolutely! While whole milk makes the pudding extra creamy, you can substitute with low-fat, almond, oat, or soy milk. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less rich, but still delicious.

What fruits taste best with Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit?

Strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and mango are classic choices, but feel free to get creative! Sliced peaches, blackberries, or even a handful of pomegranate seeds work beautifully for both flavor and color.

Can I make Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit ahead of time?

Definitely! The pudding itself can be made a day in advance and chilled. Add the fresh fruit topping just before serving for the brightest flavors and prettiest presentation.

How do I prevent a skin from forming on the pudding?

To keep your Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit perfectly smooth, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding before chilling. This simple trick works every time!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit is naturally gluten-free since it uses cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour. Just double-check your cornstarch and toppings if you’re serving those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about making Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit from scratch—the creamy pudding, the burst of juicy fruit, the joy of sharing it with friends and family. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and let it bring a little extra sweetness to your day!

Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit Recipe

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4.5 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes plus at least 2 hours chilling time
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This creamy homemade Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Fruit is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with simple pantry staples like milk, sugar, and eggs, and topped with a medley of fresh fruits, it offers a refreshing balance of sweetness and natural fruit flavors. The pudding is smooth, rich, and velvety, making it a perfect treat to enjoy chilled, especially during warm weather.

Ingredients

Scale

Pudding

2 cups whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
2 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Fruit Topping

2 cups mixed fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, mango)
Optional mint leaves for garnish

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Instructions

Combine dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt to ensure even distribution and prevent lumps in the pudding.
Add milk: Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Cook base mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until it thickens and starts to bubble, about 6 to 8 minutes.
Temper egg yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks thoroughly. Gradually add a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to temper them and prevent scrambling.
Combine and cook further: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Continue cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until the pudding is thick and creamy.
Finalize pudding: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract until the pudding is smooth and glossy.
Chill pudding: Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent skin formation and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until fully set.
Serve: Before serving, top the pudding with the fresh mixed fruit and garnish with mint leaves if desired for a fresh, colorful presentation.

Notes

You can use any combination of fresh fruit such as berries, peaches, or bananas based on your preference and seasonality.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk with plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
The pudding can be prepared a day in advance, making it a convenient dessert option for gatherings or meal prep.
Pressing plastic wrap directly onto the pudding surface helps prevent a skin from forming as it cools.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American