Description
Rich, creamy homemade chocolate pudding that’s silky-smooth and utterly irresistible. This classic dessert takes just 15 minutes to prepare and tastes infinitely better than store-bought versions. Perfect for weeknight treats or elegant dinner parties!
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups whole milk (divided)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, fresh berries
Instructions
1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until no lumps remain.
2. Gradually add 2 cups of cold milk while whisking constantly to create a smooth mixture.
3. Place saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly with a whisk, cooking for 8-10 minutes until mixture thickens.
4. Once mixture reaches a gentle boil, continue cooking for 2 more minutes while stirring continuously.
5. Remove from heat and immediately add chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until completely smooth and glossy.
6. Pour pudding through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl to ensure perfect smoothness.
7. Divide among 4-6 serving dishes or keep in one large bowl.
8. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent skin formation.
9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely chilled and set.
10. Serve cold with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Notes
For extra-rich pudding, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.
The pudding will thicken more as it cools, so aim for a slightly thinner consistency than desired.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface.
For mocha flavor, dissolve 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder in the milk.
You can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Dutch-processed cocoa creates a smoother, less acidic flavor than natural cocoa powder.
If pudding is too thick after chilling, whisk in cold milk one tablespoon at a time.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 145mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: chocolate pudding, homemade pudding, easy dessert, chocolate dessert, creamy pudding