Peanut Butter Pudding

1/3 cup granulated sugar
4 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup half-and-half or cream
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream (optional)

In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch and salt. Gradually stir in milk and half-and-half; bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook and stir for 2 minutes.

Remove from the heat; stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour into serving dishes; refrigerate. Garnish with whipped cream if desired.

Yields 4 servings.