Ingredients:

• Strawberries: 200 g (fresh or frozen)
• Sugar: 80 g
• Milk: 400 ml
• Cornstarch: 50 g (or any starch of your choice, such as arrowroot powder or potato starch)
• Coconut Flakes: For garnish (optional, but recommended for added texture and flavor)

These simple ingredients are all you need to create a decadent strawberry pudding that will transport you to a world of pure indulgence. The strawberries provide a fresh, fruity flavor, while the milk and cornstarch come together to create a silky-smooth texture. The sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness, and the optional coconut flakes bring a tropical flair that perfectly complements the flavor of the strawberries.

Steps to Make Strawberry Pudding:

1. Prepare the Strawberries:
   If you are using fresh strawberries, wash them thoroughly and remove the stems. Cut them into small pieces and set them aside. If using frozen strawberries, simply thaw them and drain any excess water.
2. Blend the Strawberries:
   Place the strawberries into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier pudding, pulse a few times to leave some texture. For a smoother consistency, you can blend the mixture completely. Set aside.
3. Make the Pudding Base:
   In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and sugar. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the milk from burning.
4. Thicken the Pudding:
   While the milk mixture is heating, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of cold milk (about 50 ml) to create a smooth slurry. Once the milk and sugar mixture is simmering, gradually add the cornstarch mixture while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the pudding to a custard-like consistency. Continue stirring until the pudding reaches your desired thickness (about 5-8 minutes).
5. Combine the Strawberry Puree:
   Once the pudding has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the blended strawberries to the pudding and stir until well incorporated. The heat of the pudding will allow the strawberry flavor to meld beautifully with the creamy base.
6. Chill the Pudding:
   Pour the pudding into individual serving bowls or a large dish. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to set and cool. The pudding will thicken further as it chills.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Once the pudding is chilled and set, garnish with a sprinkle of coconut flakes and serve. You can also add additional toppings such as whipped cream, fresh mint, or extra sliced strawberries for a decorative touch.

Prep Time:

15 minutes (excluding chilling time)

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)

Servings:

4-6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Sugars: 28 g
• Fat: 3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg
• Sodium: 50 mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This Strawberry Pudding recipe is timeless for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it brings together the rich, natural sweetness of strawberries and the creamy texture of the pudding, creating a dessert that’s universally loved. It’s easy to make with minimal ingredients, and it can be enjoyed year-round, whether strawberries are in season or you’re using frozen berries. Additionally, this pudding is highly adaptable—feel free to experiment with different flavors, toppings, and mix-ins to suit your taste.

Moreover, this recipe is an excellent example of how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Unlike many modern, overly-complicated desserts, this strawberry pudding lets the freshness of the fruit shine, without relying on artificial flavorings or overly sugary syrups. It’s a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or enjoy a quiet treat after a long day.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen strawberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before blending.

2. Can I make this pudding without cornstarch?
Yes, you can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or potato starch. You can also use agar-agar as a vegetarian option.

3. How can I make this pudding dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk, and use a plant-based butter instead of regular butter.

Tips on Making Strawberry Pudding:

• For a smoother pudding, make sure to strain the strawberry puree through a fine mesh sieve before adding it to the milk mixture.
• If you want to intensify the strawberry flavor, you can simmer the strawberry puree with a bit of sugar before adding it to the milk mixture.
• For added texture, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or granola on top of the pudding before serving.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: While this pudding is best served fresh, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. When freezing, allow the pudding to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Pudding is a perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages and occasions, offering a sweet, creamy, and fruity treat that never goes out of style. Whether enjoyed as a dessert after dinner or a sweet snack during the day, this pudding is guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of everyone who tries it. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent, and its timeless appeal will keep it a favorite for years to come. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this simple yet delicious strawberry treat with your loved ones!