Maple Pudding with Bourbon Whipped Cream

1. In a medium pot set over medium-low heat combine the milk, maple syrup, cream, salt, vanilla bean and seeds. Give it a good stir and heat until it just starts to bubble.
2. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cornstarch, and mix together with a fork. Slowly sprinkle the cornstarch mixture into the heated cream while constantly whisking.
3. Whisk the egg yolks in a medium bowl. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the eggs to temper them. Whisk the egg mixture into the hot milk. While continuously stirring, cook on low heat until the mixture thickens to the consistency of thick pancake batter, 6 to 7 minutes. Turn the heat off, and slowly whisk in the butter. Remove the vanilla pod.
4. Transfer the pudding to a clean bowl and place a piece of plastic wrap directly on top of the pudding (this eliminates a film forming on the pudding). Cool to room temperature then chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Spoon the pudding into serving cups and top with some Bourbon Whipped Cream, then serve.

Bourbon Whipped Cream:

1. In a large, chilled metal bowl combine the cream and sugar. Using a hand mixer fitted with a whisk, whip until soft peaks form. Pour in the bourbon and continue to whip until the cream is stiff, but not over-whipped.