Easy Lemon Pudding Recipe
Introduction
This Easy Lemon Pudding is a bright, creamy dessert that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Its tangy lemon flavor and smooth texture make it a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Cornstarch
- 1/8 teaspoon Salt
- 2 cups Whole Milk
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1/3 cup Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
- 1/4 teaspoon Lemon Extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan.
- Step 2: Whisk in milk and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Let it cook for 2 minutes.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Gradually stir in 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the eggs to temper them, then slowly whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
- Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil again, then reduce heat to low. Cook and stir for another 2 minutes until thickened.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon extract until smooth.
- Step 6: Pour the pudding into serving dishes and chill until set.
- Step 7: Serve chilled and enjoy your refreshing lemon pudding!
Tips & Variations
- For a zestier flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the juice and extract.
- Use low-fat milk if you prefer a lighter pudding, but whole milk gives the best creamy texture.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for an elegant touch.
Storage
Store the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, stirring until smooth. It may thicken further as it cools again.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding a day or two in advance. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container until ready to serve.
What if my pudding is too runny?
If the pudding is too thin, cook it a little longer on low heat while stirring until it thickens. Make sure to temper the eggs carefully to avoid scrambling.
PrintEasy Lemon Pudding Recipe
This Easy Lemon Pudding is a smooth and tangy dessert made from simple ingredients like fresh lemon juice, whole milk, and eggs. It’s a creamy, refreshing treat perfect for a quick homemade dessert that requires minimal effort and delivers bright citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling time (about 2 hours)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Cornstarch
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 2 cups Whole Milk
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1/3 cup Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
- 1/4 teaspoon Lemon Extract
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan until evenly mixed.
- Add Milk and Heat: Slowly whisk in the whole milk, then place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent lumps and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it cook for 2 minutes to thicken.
- Temper Eggs: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Gradually stir in 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the eggs to temper them and prevent curdling. Slowly whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
- Cook Further: Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Stir continuously and cook for an additional 2 minutes to fully thicken and cook the eggs.
- Finish Pudding: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Chill: Pour the pudding into serving dishes and refrigerate until chilled and set, about 2 hours.
- Serve: Once chilled, the pudding is ready to enjoy as a refreshing lemon dessert.
Notes
- Make sure to stir constantly while cooking to avoid lumps and burning at the bottom of the pan.
- Tempering the eggs with warm milk is key to avoid scrambling them.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright, natural flavor.
- This pudding can be garnished with whipped cream or lemon zest for extra flair.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: lemon pudding, easy dessert, lemon dessert, stovetop pudding, creamy lemon treat

