Decadent Chocolate Pudding
Making chocolate pudding from scratch is surprisingly simple, and the results are far superior to store-bought mixes.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof spatula
- Mixing Bowls
- Serving dishes or ramekins
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Pudding:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 3/4 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chopped
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until fully combined.
- Pro tip: Sift the cocoa powder if it’s clumpy—this helps your chocolate pudding stay silky smooth.
Step 2: Add the Milk
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to make a smooth mixture.
- Make sure to whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Pro tip: Start with a small amount of milk to make a paste with the dry ingredients, then slowly whisk in the rest. This ensures a lump-free pudding.
Step 3: Cook the Pudding
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, whisking constantly.
- Keep stirring until the pudding thickens and begins to bubble—this usually takes 5–7 minutes.
- Pro tip: Don’t walk away! Stirring constantly prevents the pudding from sticking to the bottom and burning.
Step 4: Add Chocolate and Butter
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate and butter until fully melted and smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Pro tip: Make sure the pan is off the heat before adding chocolate—this prevents it from seizing.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl.
- Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Pro tip: If you want a softer, just-set pudding, serve slightly warm—it’s perfect for cozy nights in.
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Sugar: 28 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 100 mg