How to Make Peanut Butter Pudding: Two Delicious Ways
Few desserts are as comforting as a bowl of creamy peanut butter pudding. Rich, smooth, and packed with the unmistakable flavor of peanut butter, this classic treat is easy to prepare whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dessert or a homemade recipe made from scratch.
The best part? You can have peanut butter pudding ready in just a few minutes using instant pudding mix, or take a little extra time to create a richer, custard-style version on the stovetop. Both methods deliver delicious results and can be customized into pies, parfaits, and other irresistible desserts.
NOTE: Make sure if you're going to build them like in the photo that you also make the chocolate pudding. You'll need both kinds.
The Quick 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Pudding
If you're short on time, this version couldn't be easier. Using instant vanilla pudding mix as the base creates a smooth, creamy dessert in just minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups Cold milk (amount called for on the pudding package)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
Directions
- Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk according to the package directions.
- Add the creamy peanut butter.
- Stir or whisk until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the pudding is silky smooth.
- Refrigerate for a few minutes if desired before serving.
The result is a rich peanut butter pudding that's perfect for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.
The peanut butter thickens the pudding slightly, so if it seems a bit too thick after mixing, you can whisk in an extra tablespoon or two of milk until it reaches your preferred consistency.
If you were using a family-size box (about 5.1 oz), you'd want to increase the peanut butter to around ¾ to 1 cup to keep the peanut butter flavor balanced. Using only ½ cup with a family-size box would result in a much milder peanut butter taste.
Homemade Stovetop Peanut Butter Pudding
For those who enjoy old-fashioned homemade desserts, this stovetop version produces an extra creamy pudding with a deeper, richer flavor.
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 4½ teaspoons cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- 1½ cups milk
- ½ cup half-and-half
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and half-and-half until completely smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from the heat.
- Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer to serving dishes and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled.
This version has the texture of a classic homemade custard and is well worth the extra few minutes of preparation.
Fun Ways to Serve Peanut Butter Pudding
Peanut butter pudding is delicious on its own, but it's also incredibly versatile.
Top It Off
Serve with:
- Fresh whipped cream
- Chopped peanuts
- Chocolate shavings
- Mini chocolate chips
- Crushed peanut butter cups
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pudding
For a flavor combination reminiscent of your favorite peanut butter cups, stir in a handful of chocolate chips while the pudding is still warm, or whisk cocoa powder into the mixture before cooking.
Peanut Butter Pie
Pour the finished pudding into a graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust. Chill until set, then finish with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle for an easy no-bake dessert.
Banana Parfaits
Layer peanut butter pudding with sliced bananas and vanilla wafers in clear glasses. Repeat the layers and top with whipped cream for a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious.
Frozen Treat
Freeze the pudding in popsicle molds for a creamy frozen snack that's perfect during warmer months.
Which Version Should You Choose?
The instant recipe is ideal when you need dessert in a hurry. With only three ingredients, it's nearly foolproof and comes together in just a few minutes.
The homemade stovetop version takes a little more effort but rewards you with a richer flavor and velvety texture that many people associate with traditional homemade puddings.
Whichever method you choose, peanut butter pudding is a simple dessert that's sure to satisfy peanut butter lovers of all ages. Whether enjoyed by the spoonful, transformed into a pie, or layered into parfaits, it's a timeless comfort food that's easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Supplies
These are great for parties of all kinds and game nights. Perfect for "build your own" with the kids as well. You're just going to need some cups to build/serve them in.
