Description
Indulgent, rich, and impossibly smooth, this homemade Chocolate Pudding is the comforting dessert you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re craving a quick dessert, looking for easy food ideas, or needing a make-ahead treat for guests, this pudding ticks all the boxes. With pantry staples and a few simple tools, you’ll have a decadent and silky pudding that’s far superior to store-bought. This easy recipe is ideal for anyone looking for breakfast ideas, dinner ideas, or a healthy-ish snack to treat themselves — gluten-free and adaptable to fit your lifestyle.
Ingredients
2 ¾ cups whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
3 large egg yolks
½ cup semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Whipped cream and chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan (off heat), whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until combined.
2. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth, then add egg yolks and whisk again.
3. Place over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble (about 5–8 minutes).
4. Cook for 1 additional minute while whisking to fully activate the cornstarch.
5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped chocolate and butter until completely melted and smooth.
6. Add vanilla extract and stir until incorporated.
7. For an ultra-smooth texture, strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl.
8. Divide into bowls or ramekins. Cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface.
9. Chill at least 2 hours or serve warm with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Notes
Constant whisking during heating prevents clumping and creates a silky texture.
Always use high-quality chocolate for the deepest flavor.
Straining the pudding makes it ultra-smooth, especially if any egg has scrambled.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg