Pudding Mix

8 cups nonfat dry milk powder
4 cups granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean
3 cups cornstarch (1 pound)
1 teaspoon salt

Cut vanilla bean into several large pieces, retaining seeds. Mix all ingredients (including vanilla bean seeds) together. Make sure cornstarch is blended in well. Store in 12 separate covered containers or individual 1-cup packages.

Makes 12 batches.

To use, place 1 cup of Pudding Mix in medium saucepan. Add 3 cups boiling water. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened. (For richer pudding, add 1 beaten egg.)

Chocolate Pudding:
Add 1 square chocolate or 2 to 4 tablespoons cocoa before removing from heat.

Coconut Pudding:
Add 1/2 cup coconut to vanilla pudding.

Lemon Pudding:
Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon butter. Grated lemon rind is optional.