If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances rich, buttery sweetness with just the right hint of sea salt, you absolutely cannot miss this Salted Caramel Puddings Recipe. It’s a luscious, creamy treat that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make. The silky texture combined with the deep caramel flavor creates a dessert experience that’s both comforting and elegant—ideal for impressing guests or simply treating yourself on a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is your first step to pudding perfection. Each item in this Salted Caramel Puddings Recipe plays a crucial role, from the granulated sugar that caramelizes into that gorgeous amber color, to the rich heavy cream adding a velvety texture, and of course, the sea salt bringing the perfect contrast of flavors.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: The base for creating that delicious caramel, it’s important to watch it carefully as it melts.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps the sugar dissolve evenly and prevents premature crystallization.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the pudding’s texture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Balances the cream to keep the pudding smooth but not too heavy.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch: The thickening agent that guarantees the pudding holds its shape perfectly.
- 4 large egg yolks: Contribute to the luxurious texture and add a subtle depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Enriches the pudding and helps smooth out the caramel’s intensity.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for topping): Essential for that classic salted caramel twist.
- Whipped cream and crushed nuts (optional): Perfect garnishes for added texture and flair.
How to Make Salted Caramel Puddings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Start by whisking together the cornstarch, egg yolks, and half a cup of milk in a small bowl until perfectly smooth. This mixture is your thickening powerhouse and will be gently cooked later to transform into pudding consistency. Setting it aside now lets you move confidently through the caramel steps.
Step 2: Caramelize the Sugar
This step is where the magic begins. Combine the granulated sugar and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan and cook over medium heat without stirring. Watching it turn a deep amber color means your caramel is developing that wonderfully complex flavor that defines this dessert. Patience is key here—keep an eye to avoid burning but resist the urge to stir.
Step 3: Add the Cream and Milk
Once your caramel reaches that perfect amber, carefully pour in the cream and remaining milk while whisking briskly. The mixture will bubble up, so move slowly and keep whisking to blend everything smoothly without scorching. This step integrates the caramel with the dairy base for a rich, luscious pudding.
Step 4: Incorporate the Egg Mixture
Next, slowly whisk in the egg yolk and cornstarch mixture prepared earlier. Keep cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. You’ll begin to see the pudding thicken as the starch gelatinizes and the eggs cook gently—this is the sweet spot for silky texture.
Step 5: Finish with Butter, Vanilla, and Salt
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt. These final additions create layers of flavor, enriching the caramel with creamy notes and that perfect kiss of saltiness. Strain the pudding through a fine mesh sieve to catch any lumps and ensure smoothness.
Step 6: Chill the Puddings
Pour the pudding mixture into glass cups or ramekins for individual servings. Allow them to cool slightly at room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator. Chilling for at least four hours helps the puddings set beautifully and develop their full flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, top each pudding with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed nuts, and an additional pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors and add texture. These final touches make your Salted Caramel Puddings Recipe feel truly special and inviting.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Puddings Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes such as freshly whipped cream and a few crushed nuts add delightful contrasts in texture to your puddings. A light sprinkle of sea salt on top brightens every bite, sharpening the caramel’s sweetness and making each spoonful irresistible.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing these puddings with fresh berries or a tart fruit compote to balance richness with freshness. A warm cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine complements the flavors perfectly, rounding out an impressive dessert course.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Salted Caramel Puddings Recipe in small, clear glass jars or vintage teacups to show off the pudding’s creamy texture and golden hue. You could also layer the pudding with crushed cookies or caramel sauce for a parfait-style presentation that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Salted caramel puddings keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to airtight containers to prevent a skin from forming and to keep flavors fresh. They’re perfect for making ahead when you want a no-fuss dessert ready to go.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to avoid it if you want to maintain that perfect silky texture, as puddings can sometimes separate after thawing. If you do freeze, use airtight containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, stirring gently to re-incorporate any separated liquid.
Reheating
This pudding is meant to be enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. However, if you prefer a warmer texture, gently warm small portions in a microwave-safe dish at low power for a few seconds, stirring frequently to avoid curdling.
FAQs
Can I use regular salt instead of sea salt in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular table salt but sea salt provides a more nuanced flavor and a subtle crunch when sprinkled on top, which enhances the overall experience.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or another dairy-free alternative, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ from the classic version.
Can I prepare this dessert without eggs?
Egg yolks are key to achieving the pudding’s creamy, rich texture and help with thickening, so leaving them out would require a different thickening method and result in a different consistency.
How long does the caramel need to cook to avoid bitterness?
Cook the sugar and water until it reaches a deep amber color but not too dark, which usually takes a few minutes. This careful timing ensures the caramel is flavorful without turning bitter.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use a larger saucepan for the caramel and watch the cooking times closely as they might vary slightly with volume.
Final Thoughts
Making this Salted Caramel Puddings Recipe is a joy from start to finish, and the results are truly rewarding. It’s a dessert that feels both cozy and elegant, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress or simply indulge yourself. Once you’ve tasted that perfect blend of creamy caramel and just the right saltiness, this recipe will become a treasured favorite to keep coming back to.
Print
Salted Caramel Puddings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these luxurious Salted Caramel Puddings, featuring a silky smooth texture enriched with a perfect balance of sweet and salty caramel flavors. This creamy dessert is made by caramelizing sugar, then combining it with a rich custard base thickened with cornstarch and egg yolks. Served chilled and topped with whipped cream and crushed nuts, it’s an elegant treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Caramel and Custard Base
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for topping)
Garnish (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Crushed nuts
Instructions
- Prepare the yolk mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, egg yolks, and 1/2 cup of whole milk until smooth. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Make the caramel: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Cook over medium heat without stirring, allowing the sugar to melt and caramelize until it reaches a deep amber color.
- Add cream and milk: Carefully pour in the heavy cream and remaining whole milk into the caramel while continuously whisking. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously upon addition.
- Incorporate the yolk mixture: Slowly whisk the reserved egg yolk and cornstarch mixture into the saucepan. Continue cooking over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the pudding thickens to a custard-like consistency.
- Finish the pudding base: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt. To ensure a smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl or jug.
- Chill the pudding: Pour the pudding into glass cups or ramekins. Allow it to cool slightly at room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours to set fully.
- Serve and garnish: Before serving, top each pudding with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed nuts, and a pinch of sea salt for an added burst of flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning the caramel.
- Whisk constantly after adding the yolk mixture to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth pudding.
- Straining the pudding helps remove any cooked egg bits and creates a silky texture.
- For a nut-free version, omit the crushed nuts garnish.
- Make sure to cool the puddings in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
