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–+ servings
Ice Cream Pudding
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 208 kcal

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
Keyword easy dessert, family favorite, frozen dessert, ice cream, no churn, pudding, retro recipes, summer dessert, vintage recipe, whipped cream