If you're looking for a tried and true vanilla pudding recipe, this is it! This homemade vanilla pudding is perfectly sweet, silky smooth, and really easy to make!
Mix the sugar, cornstarch, and salt together in a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan. Whisk in the milk and egg yolks.
Heat over medium, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles, which takes about 5-8 minutes. Once thickened, continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes all while still whisking constantly.
Remove from the heat and whisk in the butter and vanilla. Pour into a heat-proof container and press a layer of plastic wrap to the top of the pudding, making sure the plastic wrap makes contact with all of it in order to prevent a film forming as it cools.
Chill in the fridge for 4 hours, or overnight.
Before serving, stir the pudding well. Transfer to serving dishes, if desired. Top with toppings of your choice.