1/3 c. sugar
1/4 c. cornstarch
1/8 tsp. salt
2 1/2 c. milk
2 tbsp. butter
1 tsp. vanilla

Mix sugar, cornstarch, salt. Mix with milk. Cook over medium heat stirring until thickened. Remove from heat. Add butter and vanilla. Use in pies or as pudding.

For chocolate - increase sugar to 2/3 cup. Add 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa to sugar and cornstarch. Cook as above.