Butterscotch Pudding with Toffee Bits

Butterscotch Pudding with Toffee Bits is a smooth, velvety, and deeply flavorful dessert that combines the rich, caramelized sweetness of brown sugar and butter with creamy milk and vanilla. It’s an old-fashioned favorite that brings back memories of homemade desserts — indulgent yet comforting, elegant yet simple.

Topped with crunchy toffee bits or crushed toffee candy, it offers a delightful contrast of textures: silky pudding meets sweet crunch. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or whenever you crave something sweet and nostalgic.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it delivers that warm, buttery richness that only homemade butterscotch can offer. Unlike store-bought pudding, this version has depth — a combination of brown sugar, butter, and a hint of salt that gives it a luxurious, caramel-like taste.

It’s also easy to make from scratch with pantry staples, and the addition of toffee bits makes it extra special. Each spoonful is pure bliss — creamy, sweet, and slightly nutty from the caramelized sugar.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You must try this dessert because:

• It’s easy and impressive, perfect for dinner parties or family treats.
• It uses simple, everyday ingredients yet tastes gourmet.
• It’s make-ahead friendly, ideal for entertaining.
• The combination of creamy pudding and crunchy toffee is pure magic.
• It’s a nostalgic dessert that feels both classic and timeless.

Once you make homemade butterscotch pudding, you’ll never go back to boxed mixes again!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• ½ cup whipped cream (optional, for serving)
• 2–3 tablespoons toffee bits or crushed toffee candy
• A light sprinkle of sea salt (optional, enhances flavor)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Melt butter and brown sugar together until bubbly.
2. Add milk and whisk until smooth.
3. Temper egg yolks and add them to the mixture.
4. Thicken with cornstarch until creamy.
5. Chill, top with whipped cream and toffee bits, and enjoy!

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Caramelize the Sugar

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, for 2–3 minutes until it becomes bubbly and smells caramelized.
3. Be careful not to burn — you want it golden and fragrant, not dark or bitter.

Step 2: Mix the Base

1. Whisk in 1½ cups of milk gradually until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the remaining ½ cup milk with cornstarch and egg yolks until smooth.
3. Slowly pour this egg mixture into the saucepan, whisking constantly.

Step 3: Thicken the Pudding

1. Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking, until the pudding thickens — about 5–7 minutes.
2. Once thick and creamy, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.

Step 4: Strain and Chill

1. For extra-smooth pudding, strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl.
2. Cover the surface with plastic wrap (to prevent a skin from forming).
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Spoon chilled pudding into serving cups or bowls.
2. Top with whipped cream and toffee bits.
3. Optionally, sprinkle with a little sea salt for a gourmet touch.

How to Serve

Serve Butterscotch Pudding chilled in small glass cups, ramekins, or dessert bowls.

Serving suggestions:

• Top with toffee bits, crushed caramel candies, or butterscotch chips.
• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Garnish with chopped nuts, banana slices, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.

Perfect for after-dinner desserts or afternoon treats!

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use dark brown sugar for deeper flavor and richer color.
• Whisk constantly — it prevents lumps and burning.
• Chill properly — this helps the pudding set and intensify in flavor.
• Avoid overheating the eggs — temper slowly to prevent curdling.
• Add a pinch of salt — it enhances the butterscotch flavor beautifully.

Variations

1. Salted Butterscotch Pudding: Add a pinch of flaky sea salt before serving.
2. Bourbon Butterscotch: Stir in a tablespoon of bourbon after removing from heat.
3. Chocolate Twist: Mix in 2 tablespoons of melted chocolate for a mocha-butterscotch flavor.
4. Nutty Delight: Add toasted pecans or almonds for crunch.
5. Vegan Option: Use coconut milk and vegan butter, and replace egg yolks with cornstarch or arrowroot.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
• Freezing: Not ideal, as the texture may separate — but you can freeze for up to 1 month if necessary. Thaw overnight and whisk before serving.
• Make-Ahead: You can make the pudding 1–2 days in advance and garnish just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Fine-mesh sieve (for extra-smooth pudding)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowls or ramekins
• Plastic wrap

FAQ

Q1: Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
Not recommended — brown sugar gives the pudding its signature butterscotch flavor.

Q2: Can I skip the eggs?
Yes — increase cornstarch to 3 tablespoons for a custard-free version.

Q3: How can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut milk or almond milk, and substitute butter with vegan margarine.

Q4: My pudding turned lumpy — what happened?
It may have overheated or not been whisked enough. Strain it while warm to smooth it out.

Q5: Can I serve it warm?
Absolutely! It’s lovely warm with a drizzle of cream or caramel sauce.

Conclusion

Butterscotch Pudding with Toffee Bits is the perfect blend of creamy, buttery, and sweet — a dessert that’s nostalgic yet timeless. Its rich, caramelized flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it irresistible, while the crunchy toffee bits add that perfect finishing touch.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something indulgent, this pudding is a must-try. Once you experience its deep butterscotch flavor and silky smoothness, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.