Dessert

Winter Spice Vanilla Pudding with Brandied Whipped Cream Recipe

Bymia larkspur December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

Introduction

Winter Spice Vanilla Pudding is a comforting dessert that combines warm aromatic spices with rich vanilla and a touch of brandy. This luscious pudding is perfect for cozy evenings and can be served warm or chilled, topped with a brandied whipped cream for an extra special touch.

The image shows a clear, delicate glass cup filled with two layers: a smooth, pale yellow pudding at the bottom with tiny vanilla specks, and a fluffy white dollop of cream on top. An orange zest spiral rests gently on the cream, adding a pop of color. The glass has an elegant floral pattern etched on its sides and a long stem. The glass cups are placed on a wooden surface with a blurred white marbled texture background. A dark spoon is seen in one glass, and a golden spoon rests nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup heavy whipping cream (for infusion)
Peel of 1 orange
6 whole cloves
1 whole cinnamon stick
2 anise pods
4 allspice berries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 Tbsp cornstarch
1/8 tsp salt
3 egg yolks
1 cup whole milk
2 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
2 tsp vanilla bean paste (or extract)
2 tsp brandy or bourbon
2/3 cup heavy whipping cream (for whipped cream)
2 tsp powdered sugar
Pinch of salt
1 tsp brandy (for whipped cream)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup heavy cream, orange peel, cloves, cinnamon stick, anise pods, and allspice berries. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature (about 20-30 minutes) to infuse the flavors.
Step 2: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add the egg yolks and whisk until smooth. Gradually add the milk, whisking to combine thoroughly.
Step 3: Strain the cooled infused cream into the milk mixture and whisk everything together.
Step 4: Place the mixture over medium-low heat and stir constantly. Alternate between whisk and silicone spatula to scrape the bottom and sides, cooking until the pudding just begins to boil.
Step 5: Once bubbling, remove from heat and strain the pudding through a fine sieve into a bowl to remove lumps. Whisk in butter, vanilla paste, and brandy. Pour into serving containers and serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.
Step 6: For the brandied whipped cream, whip the 2/3 cup heavy cream with salt and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently whisk in brandy to taste.
Step 7: Serve a dollop of the brandied whipped cream on top of the cooled pudding for a decadent finish.

Tips & Variations

Use vanilla bean paste for a richer vanilla flavor, or substitute with pure vanilla extract if unavailable.
Try different spirits like bourbon or dark rum instead of brandy for varied flavor profiles.
Infuse the cream overnight in the fridge for a stronger spice aroma.
For a creamier texture, replace half the milk with heavy cream in the pudding base.

Storage

Store any leftover pudding in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the whipped cream separate and whip fresh before serving. Reheat the pudding gently over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain smoothness.

How to Serve

Four glass dessert bowls filled with smooth pale yellow pudding, each topped with a dollop of white whipped cream and thin strips of bright orange citrus peel. The bowls have a floral pattern etched around the rim and are placed on a dark wooden board. Scattered near the board are star anise and cloves, adding a touch of warm brown. Nearby, a jar of whipped cream and a glass of amber liquid sit on a white marbled surface. Three silver spoons rest to the side on the wooden board. One dessert bowl has a woman's hand holding a spoon, slightly dipping into the pudding. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the pudding ahead of time?

Yes, the pudding can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Just add the whipped cream topping right before serving for the best texture and flavor.