Step 1

Place a medium sized saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

In the saucepan, add milk, stirring occasionally, heat until it begins to bubble around the edge of the pan.

Step 3

In the meantime, in a mixing bowl, add sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir to mix well.

Step 4

When the milk is ready, add a small amount of the sugar mixture and stir in until dissolved, Continue add a small amount at a time until all of the sugar mixture is added and dissolved.

Step 5

Keep stirring and cooking until the pudding will cling to, and coat the back of a metal spoon. Do not allow the pudding to boil.

Step 6

Take the saucepan off of the heat.

Step 7

Immediately add in butter and vanilla. Stir to mix well.

Step 8

Transfer the pudding to pudding cups, cover, and place in the refrigerator a minimum of 40 minutes to chill and set.