Chocolate Pudding Recipe

Dreamy Homemade Chocolate Pudding Recipe for Sweet Comfort

Creamy chocolate pudding whispers comfort on chilly afternoons, promising pure indulgence with every silky spoonful.

Memories of grandmother’s kitchen dance through this luxurious dessert, rich with nostalgic flavors.

Deep cocoa notes weave magic into each velvety bite, melting smoothly across your palate.

Simple ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a dessert that feels both sophisticated and warmly familiar.

The secret lies in selecting quality chocolate that transforms an ordinary treat into something extraordinary.

Smooth, decadent, and impossibly easy, this pudding will become your go-to recipe for instant happiness.

You’ll fall in love with how effortlessly deliciousness comes together in mere minutes.

Why Chocolate Pudding Recipe Is A Rich Treat

  • Silky Smooth Chocolate Indulgence: This pudding delivers an incredibly velvety texture that melts perfectly on your tongue, creating a rich and luxurious dessert experience.
  • Quick and Easy Comfort Treat: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking steps, you can whip up this delectable chocolate pudding in under 15 minutes, making it an ideal last-minute dessert for sudden sweet cravings.
  • Versatile Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore this classic chocolate pudding, which can be enjoyed warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream, or paired with fresh berries for added excitement.
  • No-Fuss Homemade Goodness: Forget store-bought puddings – this recipe lets you control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh, preservative-free dessert that tastes infinitely better than packaged alternatives.

What You’ll Need For Chocolate Pudding Recipe

Dry Ingredients:
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, rich pudding texture.
  • Cocoa Powder: Provides deep chocolate flavor and dark color to the pudding.
  • Cornstarch: Essential thickening agent that helps pudding set properly.
  • Salt: Enhances overall chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
Liquid Ingredients:
  • Whole Milk: Creates creamy base with rich, smooth consistency.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds extra richness and luxurious mouthfeel to pudding.
  • Egg Yolks: Contribute to silky texture and help stabilize pudding.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Vanilla Extract: Rounds out chocolate flavor with warm, sweet notes.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds glossy shine and extra richness at the end of cooking.
  • Dark Chocolate: Boosts intense chocolate flavor and creates deeper color.

How To Whip Up Chocolate Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Blend Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, whisk together:
  • Sugar
  • Cocoa powder
  • Cornstarch
  • Salt

Make sure all the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a smooth mixture that promises a rich and creamy chocolate experience.

Step 2: Add Liquid Magic

Gradually pour in:
  • Whole milk
  • Heavy cream

Whisk continuously to prevent any lumps from forming, creating a silky-smooth base for your pudding.

Step 3: Heat and Stir

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. Keep a close eye on the mixture as it begins to thicken and bubble gently.

Step 4: Activate Pudding Transformation

Continue cooking and stirring for about 2-3 minutes after the first bubble appears. The pudding will start to look glossy and become significantly thicker.

Step 5: Enrich with Egg Yolks

Remove the saucepan from heat. Carefully temper egg yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the hot mixture to them, then pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan. This prevents the eggs from scrambling.

Step 6: Final Flavor Boost

Return the saucepan to medium heat. Stir in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Butter

Continue cooking until the pudding reaches a thick, luxurious consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

Step 7: Strain and Smooth

Pour the pudding through a fine-mesh strainer to ensure an ultra-smooth texture. This step removes any potential lumps or egg bits.

Step 8: Chill and Set

Transfer the pudding to individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with:
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Fresh berries (optional)

Dive into your homemade chocolate pudding and savor every creamy, decadent spoonful!

Pro Tips For Chocolate Pudding Recipe

  • Prevent Lumpy Texture: Sift cocoa powder and cornstarch together before whisking to ensure smooth, lump-free pudding with silky consistency.
  • Customize Dairy Options: Swap whole milk with almond, soy, or coconut milk for dairy-free alternative that maintains rich chocolate flavor.
  • Control Heat Carefully: Stir constantly over medium-low heat to prevent scorching and achieve perfect pudding thickness without burning.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Add pinch of espresso powder or vanilla extract to intensify chocolate's richness and complexity.
  • Storage Strategy: Cover pudding surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation when chilling in refrigerator.

Keep Chocolate Pudding Recipe Smooth And Fresh

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover chocolate pudding in an airtight container with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent skin formation. Keep chilled for up to 4 days.
  • Prevent Skin: Press plastic wrap gently against the pudding's surface before sealing the container, blocking air exposure that causes unwanted skin development.
  • Maintain Texture: Stir the pudding gently before serving to restore its smooth, creamy consistency after refrigeration.
  • Avoid Freezing: Do not freeze chocolate pudding, as it can separate and lose its silky texture when thawed, compromising the dessert's delightful quality.

Sweet Pairings For Chocolate Pudding Recipe

  • Brew Rich Coffee Companion: Dark roast coffee cuts through the pudding's sweetness, creating a bold flavor contrast that enhances the chocolate's depth.
  • Select Creamy Dairy Sidekick: Fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream adds a cool, smooth texture that complements the pudding's rich chocolate intensity.
  • Pair with Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or crushed hazelnuts on top to introduce a delightful crunch and earthy undertone that elevates the dessert's complexity.
  • Match with Sweet Wine Accent: A glass of port wine or late harvest Riesling provides a sweet, velvety counterpoint that harmonizes beautifully with the chocolate's robust character.

New Takes On Chocolate Pudding Recipe

  • Velvety Dark Chocolate: Swap milk chocolate cocoa powder for intense dark cocoa, creating a richer, deeper chocolate experience with bittersweet undertones.
  • Espresso Enhanced: Add 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients, boosting the chocolate's complexity and providing a subtle coffee kick.
  • Salted Caramel Infusion: Drizzle homemade salted caramel sauce over the finished pudding, introducing a luxurious sweet-salty contrast that elevates the dessert's flavor profile.
  • Nutty Crunch Topping: Sprinkle toasted chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans on top for a delightful textural element and nutty complementary taste.

FAQs About Chocolate Pudding Recipe

  • What makes this chocolate pudding different from store-bought versions?

This homemade pudding uses fresh ingredients and allows you to control the sweetness and chocolate intensity, giving you a richer, more authentic chocolate flavor compared to packaged alternatives.

  • Can I use different types of milk in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with 2% or even non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind that the fat content might slightly affect the pudding’s final texture and creaminess.

  • Is cornstarch necessary for making chocolate pudding?

Absolutely! Cornstarch is crucial for creating the pudding’s smooth, thick consistency. It acts as a thickening agent that helps the pudding set properly and gives it that classic silky texture that everyone loves.

  • How can I prevent lumps when making this pudding?

Whisking the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding milk and continuously stirring while cooking will help prevent lumps. Use a steady, consistent motion and make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan while stirring.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Chocolate Pudding Recipe

Chocolate Pudding Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Rich chocolate pudding sweeps you into a world of silky indulgence, promising pure dessert bliss. Smooth chocolate layers melt effortlessly, inviting comfort with each spoonful you savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup (85 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Thickening Agents:

  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancers and Toppings:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Fresh berries

Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients in a medium saucepan, thoroughly whisking sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until perfectly blended and free of lumps.
  2. Gradually pour milk into the dry mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth, uniform base that prevents any potential clumping.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching and ensure even heat distribution across the bottom of the pan.
  4. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, which signals the cornstarch is activating and creating the pudding’s signature creamy texture.
  5. Remove from heat and swiftly incorporate beaten egg yolks, quickly stirring to prevent the eggs from scrambling and maintaining a silky consistency.
  6. Return the pan to medium heat, stirring vigilantly for an additional minute to fully cook the egg yolks and develop a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
  7. Take the pan off the heat and fold in butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the butter melts completely and blends seamlessly into the pudding.
  8. Transfer the hot pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl, pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
  9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the pudding to chill and set into a decadent, spoonable dessert with intense chocolate notes.
  10. Before serving, optionally garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a light dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant presentation.

Notes

  • Ensure precise measurement of dry ingredients to prevent lumpy texture in your pudding.
  • Opt for high-quality cocoa powder to enhance the rich chocolate flavor and create a more decadent dessert.
  • Consider using dark cocoa powder for an intense, deeper chocolate experience that elevates the classic pudding.
  • Experiment with alternative milk options like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version that maintains creamy consistency.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star