This old-fashioned slow cooker dessert is the kind of sweet, nostalgic treat that feels right at home at potlucks, holiday tables, and family suppers. Vintage orange slice candies melt down into a bright citrusy pudding with hardly any fuss, and with just five ingredients, it is a fun way to turn a simple pantry shortcut into something that tastes charmingly retro and extra special.
Serve this warm pudding in small bowls on its own, or dress it up with a spoonful of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a little extra orange zest if you want a fresher citrus note. It also pairs nicely with shortbread cookies, pound cake, or a hot cup of coffee for an easy dessert spread when company stops by.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Vintage Orange Slice Pudding
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) package chewy orange slice candies
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
2 cups whole milk
1 box (3.4-ounce) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions
1. Lightly butter the inside of the slow cooker, then add the orange slice candies, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, vanilla pudding mix, and butter.
2. Stir well to combine as much as possible, cover, and cook on low for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes, until the candies are mostly melted and the pudding is smooth and thick.
3. Once smooth, turn off the heat and let the pudding rest uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes so it can set a bit more before serving.
4. Spoon the warm pudding into dessert bowls and serve plain, or top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you like.
Variations & Tips
For a smoother pudding: If you want an extra silky texture, cut the orange slice candies into smaller pieces before adding them to the slow cooker. They will melt more quickly and evenly.
For picky eaters: Serve the pudding with whipped cream instead of extra candy garnish so the citrus flavor feels softer and more familiar, especially for little ones who may be unsure about old-fashioned candy desserts.
To keep it from scorching: Slow cookers can vary quite a bit, so give the pudding a stir every 30 minutes and start checking early. If your slow cooker runs hot, switch to the warm setting as soon as the mixture is thick and smooth.
Make it a little fancier: Spoon the pudding over cubes of pound cake or serve it parfait-style with whipped topping for an easy dessert that looks lovely on a buffet table.
Leftover tip: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding will firm up as it chills, so reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold like a creamy candy custard.