Creamy Vanilla Pudding - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1/3 cup sugar (for a sweet pudding add in a couple tablespoons more sugar)
2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups half-and-half cream (or use milk)
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1 -2 tablespoon butter

Preparation

In a heavy saucepan combine sugar, cornstarch, salt, half and half cream, cinnamon and nutmeg (if using) bring to a boil whisking vigorously over medium heat.
As soon as the mixture is very hot whisk in the egg yolk and cook whisking vigorously until thickened and bubbly (about 2 minutes).
Remove from heat and immediately stir in vanilla and butter until smooth and combined.
Transfer to a heat-proof bowl, then place a piece of plastic wrap directly over the pudding.
Cool for about 30 minutes on the counter then refrigerate until cold.