This dessert is a fusion of classic custard and caramel pudding, baked in a tray for easy slicing and serving. It features a velvety custard base—rich with eggs, milk, and vanilla—topped with a glossy layer of caramel sauce that adds depth and sweetness. The diagonal caramel lines in your image suggest a decorative drizzle, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Perfect for dinner parties, Eid gatherings, or Sunday lunches, this pudding is served chilled and sliced into squares. It’s light yet indulgent, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a flavor profile that balances creamy richness with caramel warmth. In your Sahiwal kitchen, Hassan, this could easily become a signature dessert—especially for guests who love a refined sweet treat.
🧂 INGREDIENTS:
Serves 8–10
For the Custard Base:
- 4 cups full-fat milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: pinch of salt
For the Caramel Sauce:
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- Optional: 1 tbsp butter (for richness)
For Garnish:
- Additional caramel for drizzling
- Optional: crushed nuts, whipped cream, or edible gold dust
🔥 INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Make the Caramel:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water.
- Cook over medium heat without stirring until the mixture turns amber.
- Swirl gently to ensure even coloring.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter if using.
- Pour into the bottom of a rectangular glass baking dish and tilt to coat evenly. Let cool and set.
2. Prepare the Custard:
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla until smooth.
- Heat milk in a saucepan until warm but not boiling.
- Slowly pour warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper.
- Strain the mixture through a sieve for extra smoothness.
3. Bake the Pudding:
- Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Pour custard mixture over the set caramel in the baking dish.
- Place the dish in a larger tray filled halfway with hot water (water bath).
- Bake for 45–55 minutes until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
4. Chill & Decorate:
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, drizzle caramel in diagonal lines across the surface.
- Slice into squares and garnish as desired.
🧡 NARRATIVE & VARIATIONS:
Your image shows a dessert that’s smooth, glossy, and beautifully presented. In your recipe archive, Hassan, this belongs in the “Elegant Tray Bakes” collection. It’s ideal for serving at large gatherings, and the tray format makes it easy to portion and transport.
Variations:
- Add coconut milk for a tropical twist
- Infuse milk with cardamom or saffron for a desi flair
- Use condensed milk for a richer custard