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Creamy caramel latte pudding in a glass dessert cup topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, chocolate shavings, and chocolate-covered espresso beans on a ceramic plate with coffee beans and a gold spoon.
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Caramel Latte Pudding

Rich caramel, smooth espresso, and creamy vanilla come together in this luxurious Caramel Latte Pudding. Inspired by a coffeehouse caramel latte, this silky homemade pudding delivers balanced coffee flavor, buttery caramel notes, and a velvety texture that makes every spoonful irresistible.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword caramel coffee custard, caramel coffee dessert, caramel custard, caramel latte dessert, caramel latte pudding, caramel pudding, chilled dessert, coffee lover dessert, coffee pudding, coffeehouse dessert, creamy pudding recipe, easy pudding recipe, espresso dessert, espresso pudding, homemade pudding, latte pudding, make ahead dessert, pudding cups, silky pudding recipe, vanilla espresso pudding
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chill time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 27 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 285kcal
Cost $7 for entire recipe

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Fine mesh sieve
  • measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • 6 ramekins or dessert glasses
  • plastic wrap

Ingredients

Pudding

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup strong brewed espresso cooled
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons caramel sauce
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving

  • Whipped cream
  • Additional caramel sauce
  • Chocolate-covered espresso beans optional

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup of the milk until completely smooth.
  • In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining milk, heavy cream, espresso, brown sugar, granulated sugar, caramel sauce, salt, and espresso powder.
  • Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the mixture is steaming and the sugars have dissolved. Do not boil.
  • Slowly whisk about 1 cup of the hot mixture into the egg mixture to temper the eggs.
  • Gradually whisk the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
  • Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the pudding thickens and begins to bubble.
  • Continue cooking for 1 minute after bubbling begins to fully activate the cornstarch.
  • Remove from the heat and whisk in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Strain the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl for the silkiest texture.
  • Divide evenly among six ramekins or dessert glasses.
  • Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of each pudding.
  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully chilled and set.
  • Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and chocolate-covered espresso beans before serving.

Notes

This caramel latte pudding is designed to deliver the perfect balance of rich caramel flavor and smooth coffeehouse-style espresso notes. These simple tips will help you achieve silky, creamy results every time.

Use Strong Espresso

For the best caramel latte pudding, use freshly brewed espresso or very strong coffee. A bold coffee base creates the signature latte flavor and ensures the coffee notes shine through the creamy pudding.

Whisk Constantly

Continuous whisking prevents lumps and creates a smooth, velvety texture. Once the pudding begins to bubble, continue cooking for one additional minute to fully activate the cornstarch and achieve the perfect consistency.

Strain for a Silky Texture

Pouring the finished pudding through a fine-mesh sieve removes any tiny bits of cooked egg and guarantees an ultra-smooth, bakery-quality caramel latte dessert.

Chill Thoroughly

This homemade caramel latte pudding needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to fully set. For the richest flavor and creamiest texture, chill overnight before serving.

Customize the Coffee Flavor

For a stronger coffeehouse-style dessert, increase the espresso powder to 1½ teaspoons. If you prefer a milder latte flavor, slightly reduce the espresso powder while keeping the brewed espresso the same.

Make It Salted Caramel

A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving transforms this dessert into a salted caramel latte pudding. The salt enhances both the caramel and espresso flavors.

Perfect for Making Ahead

Caramel latte pudding is an excellent make-ahead dessert for holidays, dinner parties, and family gatherings. It can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Top each serving with whipped cream, an extra drizzle of caramel sauce, and a few chocolate-covered espresso beans for a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of caramel latte flavor.