Vanilla beans can be expensive, but their superior flavor is worth the investment. Substitute vanilla paste or one teaspoon real vanilla extract if necessary. Stir extract in with the butter.
i made this for the first time last night. It is absolutely delicious. I agree with the other posters that the sugar should be reduced, it's very sweet at 3/4 cup. 1/2 cup seems like it would be about right. I didn't have half and half so I substituted some canned whipped cream and stirred it down with a little milk into a liquid - which worked fine. I also didn't have a vanilla bean so I substituted 3 tsp of organic vanilla extract...which made for a more 'French Vanilla' experience. When pouring the mixture into the bowl to cool, I strained it through a strainer to smooth it out. Also, after chilling overnight, I took a beater to it to smooth it out further into a more pudding like (and less custardy) texture. I will make this again, I have some ideas for other flavor options. Yummy!!!
So quick and easy! Very tasty. Followed other reviewers' recommendation to use only 1/2 cup sugar. Also, replaced the half-and-half with more milk. Used three egg yolks because that's what I needed to use up. Served it to guests and very happy with the results. Next time I'll jazz it up with cardamom, cinnamon or lemon rind.
I made this recipe last night and loved it. I did make some changes though. 1) I cut the sugar down to 1/2 cup. 2) I wanted a non-dairy version so used Almond Milk instead of the regular milk and Vanilla Soy Creamer instead of the half and half. 3) I couldn't resist...I had to add some cinnamon (about 2 teaspoons). The result? Wonderful! You would never know it didn't have dairy. Give it a try! It's awesome!
Fantastic taste and texture. I have made it twice. Thought it was a little sweet and will cut sugar by a quarter cup next time! Anyone who loves the true taste of vanilla will be crazy over this pudding.
Quite possibly my favorite CookingLight recipe ever! Sure, it takes more time than instant pudding, but boy is it worth it!! The vanilla bean flavor is AMAZING. My family asks for it every time they visit. I have never had any problems with the recipe. It takes several minutes of intense monitoring to not scold the mixture there at the end. Otherwise, it is a very doable recipe. Note: After about 2 days in the fridge, the recipe begins to separate, so eat it before then! LOVE IT!!
