Peanut Butter Pudding

Peanut butter pudding is one of those desserts that hits differently. It is creamy, rich, and loaded with that unmistakable peanut butter flavor that makes everything better.

You would think something this good requires a ton of effort. But honestly? It comes together in about 15 minutes on the stove.

The best part is that you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry right now. Milk, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and a generous scoop of peanut butter are all you need.

The result is a silky-smooth pudding with an incredible depth of flavor. Think of it like a peanut butter cup in pudding form!

Why You Will Love This Peanut Butter Pudding

This is not your average boxed pudding mix. This is the real deal, made completely from scratch.

The texture is incredibly thick and creamy. Every single bite is packed with real peanut butter goodness.

It is also incredibly simple to make. No baking required, no fancy techniques, and no obscure ingredients.

Kids and adults alike go absolutely wild for this dessert. It is a true crowd-pleaser that disappears fast.

Ingredient Notes

Whole milk is the key to a rich and creamy base. You can use 2% in a pinch, but whole milk gives you that luxurious texture.

Cornstarch is the thickener that gives this pudding its signature silky consistency. Make sure to whisk it in well to avoid any lumps.

Egg yolks add richness and help the pudding set beautifully. Tempering them with the hot milk mixture is an important step, so do not rush it.

Creamy peanut butter is the star of the show. Use a regular creamy variety like Jif or Skippy for the best results. Natural peanut butter can work but may result in a slightly different texture.

Butter and vanilla round everything out with extra richness and warmth.

How to Make Peanut Butter Pudding

Start by whisking together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to combine.

Place the pan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. This takes about 5 minutes.

Temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a little of the hot mixture into them while whisking. Then pour everything back into the saucepan and cook for another minute or two.

Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla until silky smooth. Pour into individual cups and chill until set.

Tips for the Best Results

Stir constantly while cooking. Cornstarch pudding can go from smooth to lumpy in seconds if you walk away from the stove.

Temper your egg yolks slowly. This prevents them from scrambling when they hit the hot mixture.

Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding before chilling. This prevents that rubbery skin from forming on top.

Use room-temperature peanut butter for the smoothest results. Cold peanut butter can cause the mixture to seize up slightly.

Topping Ideas

A big dollop of whipped cream is the classic choice. It adds a light, airy contrast to the rich pudding.

Crushed peanuts give you a wonderful crunch in every bite. A drizzle of melted chocolate takes it completely over the top.

Fresh banana slices pair beautifully with the peanut butter flavor. And for a fun twist, crumble some Nutter Butter cookies on top for extra peanut butter goodness.

A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt would be incredible too.

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover pudding covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the plastic wrap is pressed directly onto the surface.

The pudding thickens a bit more as it chills, which is completely normal. Give it a gentle stir before serving if needed.

This pudding does not freeze well, so I recommend enjoying it fresh from the fridge.

Print Pin

5 from 5 votes

Peanut Butter Pudding

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg yolks lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
• Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil, about 5 minutes.
• Place the egg yolks in a small bowl. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper them.
• Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 1-2 more minutes until very thick.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and combined.
• Pour the pudding into 6 individual serving cups or a large bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled and set. Serve topped with whipped cream and crushed peanuts if desired.

Notes

For an extra-rich pudding, use whole milk instead of 2%. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. This pudding will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.

Final Thoughts

If you are a peanut butter lover, this pudding needs to be on your must-make list immediately. It is rich, creamy, and absolutely bursting with flavor.

The fact that it comes together in just 15 minutes makes it even better. It is the perfect easy dessert for a weeknight treat or a special occasion.

Trust me, once you try homemade peanut butter pudding, you will never go back to the boxed stuff again!