Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 cup of brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Stir in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of brown sugar, heavy cream, and 1/4 cup of butter. Stir until blended.
- Carefully pour the boiling water evenly over the batter, then gently spoon the brown sugar mixture over the top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is set and a rich sauce forms underneath.
- Serve warm, drizzling the heavenly butterscotch sauce over each portion.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Self-Saucing Butterscotch Pudding can be treated as a standalone dessert, but you can elevate your experience by adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh fruits, like bananas or berries, can provide a delightful contrast to the richness, while toasted nuts can add a satisfying crunch.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh, let the pudding cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, microwave individual portions until warmed through. If you plan to freeze some, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before reheating. Always practice safe food handling to preserve the flavor and quality.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure that your butter and milk are at room temperature when you mix them in.
- Don’t Skip the Vanilla: The vanilla extract brings a deep flavor that beautifully complements the butterscotch. It’s a must-have!
- Careful Layering: When pouring the boiling water and brown sugar mixture, do so gently to prevent disturbing the batter.
Creative Twists
While traditional butterscotch pudding is delicious, you can certainly make it your own. Consider flavor variations such as adding a teaspoon of cinnamon for warmth or incorporating a splash of bourbon for a boozy twist. You can even experiment with different types of sugar, like dark brown sugar or coconut sugar, for distinctive flavors. For a chocolate version, fold in some cocoa powder into the batter—who could resist that?
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
Total preparation and cooking time is approximately 1 hour, including baking time.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How should I serve leftovers?
Gently reheat the pudding in the microwave. It tastes best warm, so consider enjoying it straight from the oven for the best experience!
Enjoy making this self-saucing butterscotch pudding—a dessert that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart!
