Cafe Au Lait Pudding

Coffee just might be my favorite beverage.  I have a deep-seated affection for the magical little coffee bean.  When flipping through that final Gourmet magazine and my eyes landed on a recipe for Cafe Au Lait Pudding I quite literally let a little "oooh!" What a perfect idea for a dessert.

This recipe calls for instant coffee.  We don't use instant but that coffee giant on the corner carries conveniently sized options.  As this recipe is a relatively quick one I planned to make it on a work night so opted for the only decaf option they had, which was a bold roast.  As much as I loved this dessert and most certainly will be making it again, I would recommend a mild roast as the bold was a bit over-powering.  Next time I won't worry about the little bit of caffeine.

Did I mention that I loved this dessert?  It is an easy recipe that is still a great option for sharing with company.  Served in pretty little cups it will be quite a nice treat for your guests.  And it is equally a nice little treat for any night as it is relatively quick to make, even after a full work day.  The magazine suggested sprinkling the top with cinnamon but I decided to go with freshly grated nutmeg... yum!

Cafe Au Lait Pudding

Source: Gourmet
Serves: 4

2 cups whole milk
3 tablespoons instant coffee granules
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoon sugar, divided
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling

Equipment: 4 (4-to 5-ounces) cups or ramekins

Whisk together milk, coffee granules, cornstarch, 1/4 cup sugar, and a small pinch of salt in a heavy medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, then boil 1 minute, stirring constantly. Transfer to a metal bowl set in an ice bath and cool, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Pour into cups or ramekins and chill, uncovered, 20 minutes.

Beat cream with vanilla and remaining 2 tablespoon sugar using an electric mixer just until soft peaks form. Spoon whipped cream onto puddings and dust cream lightly with cinnamon.

Enjoy!

~ Tara