Grandma's Vanilla Pudding


2 1/2 c. milk, divided
pinch of salt
1/2 c. sugar
3 tbs. cornstarch
2 egg yolks
1 tsp. Vanilla
1 tbs. butter
Put 2 c. milk in a saucepan, add salt, turn on the heat
Pour in the sugar, but DO NOT STIR.
Quickly mix cornstarch with remaining 1/2 c. milk.
Add egg yolks to cornstarch liquid; stir well.

When milk in saucepan comes to a high rolling boil,
remove from heat and stir while pouring in cornstarch liquid.
The pudding thickens instantly and is very smooth.

Set back on heat about 1 min. while stirring.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter.
Chill before serving.

Note: for chocolate pudding, follow directions for
vanilla pudding, but combine 2 tbs. cocoa with
sugar before adding to milk.