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When the craving for something rich and creamy strikes, there’s nothing quite like the indulgence of Homemade Cheesecake Pudding. I first made this delightful dessert on a quiet Sunday afternoon, seeking a sweet escape from the mundane routine of daily life. The moment that silky mixture started to bubble on the stove, the air was filled with a dreamy blend of vanilla and cream cheese, making my kitchen feel like a cozy bakery.

This cheesecake pudding not only delivers on flavor but is also a breeze to whip up. Trust me, you’ll find this recipe perfect for those evenings when you want to impress without the fuss. Plus, it’s wonderfully adaptable—serve it warm or chilled, elevate it with fresh fruits, or revel in its simple glory. Each spoonful is a promise of comfort that reminds us homemade is always better than fast food. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into making a dish that will have everyone asking for more!

Why is Cheesecake Pudding a Must-Try?

Irresistible Creaminess: This cheesecake pudding boasts a luxuriously smooth texture that melts in your mouth, delivering pure indulgence with every bite.

Easy to Make: With just a few straightforward steps, you’re on your way to dessert bliss—perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs!

Versatile Serving Options: Whether you’re enjoying it solo, or topped with fresh fruit, each serving is customizable, making it delightful for any occasion.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This recipe is sure to impress your guests, transforming any gathering into a memorable feast.

Elevate your dessert game with this delectable treat—trust me, this homemade version will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Cheesecake Pudding Ingredients

• Get ready to create a dreamy dessert with these simple ingredients!

For the Pudding

Whole milk – 1 3/4 cup, provides a creamy base for the pudding.
Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup, sweetens the mixture beautifully.
Kosher salt – pinch, enhances the overall flavor.
Egg yolks – 2, adds richness and helps thicken the pudding.
Cornstarch – 2 tbsp, acts as a thickening agent for that perfect texture.
Cream cheese – 6 oz, ensures a rich and decadent cheesecake flavor.
Vanilla extract – 1 tsp, adds a warm and inviting aroma.
Sour cream – 3 tbsp, gives extra creaminess and tanginess.

For the Crust Topping

Graham crackers – 5, crushed, offers a delightful crunch that complements the pudding.
Unsalted butter – 3 tbsp, binds the crumbs together for a buttery crust.
Granulated sugar – 2 tbsp, sweetens the graham cracker mixture.
Kosher salt – pinch, balances the sweetness of the topping.

This easy-to-assemble collection of cheesecake pudding ingredients will transform your kitchen into a dessert haven!

How to Make Cheesecake Pudding

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the 1 3/4 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of kosher salt. Heat over medium until the mixture simmers and the sugar dissolves, about 5-7 minutes.
Prepare Egg Mixture: While the milk mixture simmers, whisk together the 2 egg yolks and 1/4 cup whole milk in a separate bowl. Add the 2 tbsp cornstarch and whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Tempering the Eggs: Remove the saucepan from heat. Gradually ladle about 1/3 of the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. This step ensures the eggs don’t scramble!
Thicken Pudding: Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan while whisking. Return the saucepan to medium heat and stir frequently until the pudding thickens and bubbles appear, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Creamy Goodness: Once thickened, take the saucepan off the heat. Stir in the 6 oz room temperature cream cheese and 1 tsp vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Finally, mix in the 3 tbsp sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Chill the Pudding: Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to avoid a skin. Chill for at least 4 hours, or an hour if using individual serving dishes.
Prepare the Topping: Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a bowl, mix together the 5 crushed graham crackers, 3 tbsp melted butter, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, and a pinch of kosher salt. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes, stir, then bake for another 3-4 minutes until lightly golden.
Serve Delightfully: Once your cheesecake pudding is chilled and the topping is cooled, serve the pudding garnished with the buttery graham cracker crumbs, and consider fresh fruit or fruit sauce for an extra touch.

Optional: Add a dollop of whipped cream for an even more indulgent treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cheesecake Pudding

Fridge: Keep the cheesecake pudding covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this preserves its creamy texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pudding in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Make sure to label with the date to track usage.

Thawing: To enjoy your frozen cheesecake pudding, transfer it to the fridge the night before serving to thaw gradually; avoid microwaving as it may change the consistency.

Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously until just warmed through; do not boil.

Make Ahead Options

making this Cheesecake Pudding ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments in your busy week! You can prepare the entire pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance and simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap pressed against its surface to avoid any skin forming. For the graham cracker topping, you can also mix the ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, just bake the crumbs as instructed and top your pudding before enjoying. This way, you can create a delightful and impressive dessert with minimal fuss on the day of your gathering—just as delicious and perfectly creamy!

What to Serve with Cheesecake Pudding?

Creating the perfect meal is all about harmony, and this luscious dessert is no exception. Let your cheesecake pudding shine alongside these delightful pairings!

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle a warm chocolate sauce over the pudding for a decadent touch that enchants every chocolate lover.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream provides a silky contrast to the creamy pudding, elevating every bite.
Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves not only looks gorgeous but adds a refreshing herbal note that brightens the dessert.
Espresso or Coffee: A robust cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the pudding, making for a perfect end to your meal.
Crushed Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add an unexpected crunch that harmonizes with the creamy texture, introducing delightful contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For those extra indulgent moments, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pudding, creating pure bliss.
Sparkling Water: Serve with a refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon for a light, palate-cleansing finish to your meal.

Cheesecake Pudding Variations

Get ready to put your own spin on this delicious dessert!

Chocolate Delight: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the pudding mixture for a rich chocolate version that pairs perfectly with the graham cracker topping.
Fruit Infusion: Blend in 1 cup of fresh berries or pureed fruit into the pudding for a burst of fruity flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy texture.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for a crunchy texture that adds an unexpected twist to every spoonful.
Lemon Zest: Stir in the zest of 1 lemon to the pudding mixture for a refreshing citrusy brightness that lightens up the dessert as you savor it.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the whole milk and cream cheese with coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese for a deliciously creamy, non-dairy alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg while cooking to infuse warm spices into the pudding, giving it a cozy flavor that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Vanilla Bean: Replace the vanilla extract with the seeds of 1 vanilla bean for a deeper, richer vanilla flavor that truly elevates your cheesecake pudding experience.
Caramel Drizzle: Top the finished pudding with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat that makes every bite feel like a celebration.

Each of these variations invites creativity, ensuring your cheesecake pudding is always exciting and tailored to your taste!

Tips for the Best Cheesecake Pudding

Perfect Temperature: Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your cheesecake pudding.

Careful Whisking: Always whisk the egg mixture slowly into the hot milk to prevent scrambling. This technique is key for a silky pudding.

Chill Time: Don’t rush the cooling process. For the best texture, allow at least 4 hours in the fridge to let the pudding set and flavors meld.

Toasty Topping: Bake the graham cracker crust until golden but watch closely to prevent burning. A little crispness contrasts beautifully with the creamy pudding.

Custom Garnishes: Top with fresh fruits, fruit sauces, or even chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance and flavor when serving your cheesecake pudding.

Cheesecake Pudding Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cream cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use full-fat cream cheese that’s at room temperature when you start. This helps it blend smoothly into the pudding. Avoid low-fat or whipped cream cheese, as they don’t provide that rich and creamy texture.

How should I store leftover cheesecake pudding?
Very simple! Keep your cheesecake pudding covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay delicious for about 3 days. Just remember to let it chill completely before covering; this keeps it smooth and fresh!

Can I freeze cheesecake pudding? How do I do that?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cheesecake pudding, pour it into an airtight container and press a layer of plastic wrap tightly against the surface before sealing. This prevents ice crystals from forming. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw gradually. Avoid the microwave, as it can affect the texture.

What should I do if my pudding doesn’t thicken properly?
If you find your pudding isn’t thickening as desired, ensure you cooked it long enough after adding the egg mixture. It should be on the heat for about 2-3 minutes after re-integrating the eggs, until you see large bubbles. If it still seems too runny, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a splash of milk, then whisk it in while heating gently to thicken it up. Don’t rush the process; patience is key!

Are there any dietary considerations for this cheesecake pudding?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance, consider using lactose-free cream cheese and milk. For a healthier version, you could try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a different flavor. However, that will alter the texture slightly. Always check for allergies concerning egg-based recipes, and feel free to substitute the eggs with a suitable egg replacer if necessary.

Can I make this pudding ahead of time for a gathering?
Very much so! This cheesecake pudding is perfect for making ahead. In fact, allowing it to chill for at least 4 hours (or even overnight) allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Just prepare it, let it cool, and then refrigerate it until it’s time to serve. It’s a fantastic way to have dessert ready when your guests arrive!