
This vintage no-churn frozen pudding dessert is an easy homemade treat that became especially popular in American kitchens during the mid-20th century, when instant pudding mixes made quick desserts more accessible. By combining freshly prepared pudding with whipped cream and freezing it, the result is a smooth, creamy dessert with an ice cream-like texture without requiring an ice cream maker. The handwritten note on the back of the recipe card suggests serving vanilla pudding with sweetened mixed fruit, making it a versatile recipe that can be adapted to different flavors and seasonal fruits. It's a simple, budget-friendly dessert that delivers rich flavor with only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, making it ideal for family meals, potlucks, and warm-weather gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3.4 oz chocolate pudding mix (1 package, or vanilla pudding mix)
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding
- Prepare the pudding according to the package directions.
- Add the sugar while preparing the pudding.
Step 2: Chill the Pudding
- Pour the pudding into a shallow tray or dish.
- Refrigerate until completely chilled.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
- Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Step 4: Fold Together
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding.
- Mix until evenly combined.
Step 5: Freeze
- Return the mixture to the tray.
- Freeze until firm, about 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve frozen.
Tips
- Use vanilla, chocolate, butterscotch, or pistachio pudding for different flavors.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips before freezing.
- Add chopped strawberries, peaches, or bananas for a fruity version.
- Sprinkle crushed cookies or graham crackers over each serving.
- Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream.
- Freeze in individual cups for easy portions.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for richer flavor.
- Swirl in caramel or chocolate syrup before freezing.
- Top with toasted nuts for added crunch.
Nutrition
Calories: 208kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 42mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 165mgSugar: 21gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 105mgIron: 0.3mg
