This homemade chocolate pudding is a delicious, creamy dessert that’s both simple to make and irresistibly rich. Made from scratch with real cocoa, this pudding is a perfect balance of deep chocolate flavor and smooth texture. The cornstarch helps to thicken it, while egg yolks add richness. This recipe is a comforting, classic treat that can be served warm or cold, enjoyed on its own, or as a filling for pies. Follow along to create this classic chocolate pudding that’s bound to become a favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, cornstarch, sugar, and salt. Make sure to break up any clumps of cocoa to ensure a smooth pudding.
Step 2: Add the Milk
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. As the milk mixture heats up, add a few spoonfuls of the warm mixture to the egg yolks, whisking continuously to slowly warm them without cooking.
- Once the yolks are warmed, pour them into the saucepan with the rest of the milk mixture, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Cook Until Thickened
- Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly with a whisk or a wooden spoon to prevent sticking, for about 8-10 minutes or until the pudding thickens and begins to bubble. The pudding should coat the back of the spoon when ready.
Step 5: Add the Vanilla
- Remove the pudding from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This will enhance the flavor and add a touch of sweetness.
Step 6: Chill or Serve Warm
- For a warm pudding, let it cool slightly and serve immediately. For chilled pudding, pour it into individual serving bowls, cover each with plastic wrap (pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 7: Enjoy!
- Serve the pudding as is, or top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Note: Based on approximately 1/2 cup serving
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Sugar: 32g
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: Yes! Whole milk is recommended for the creamiest texture, but you can also use 2% milk. Dairy-free alternatives like almond or coconut milk work, though the texture may be slightly different.
Q: How can I make this recipe richer?
A: For an extra rich pudding, substitute 1/4 cup of the milk with heavy cream, or add an extra egg yolk.
Q: What should I do if my pudding has lumps?
A: To remove any lumps, strain the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling or serving. Whisking continuously during cooking can also help prevent lumps from forming.
Q: Can I use this as a pie filling?
A: Absolutely! This chocolate pudding is perfect for pie. Pour it into a baked pie crust, chill until set, and enjoy a homemade chocolate cream pie.
Tips for Making Perfect Chocolate Pudding:
- Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: A good-quality cocoa powder will provide a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
- Whisk Continuously: To avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture, whisk the pudding constantly as it cooks.
- Use Fresh Egg Yolks: Egg yolks add creaminess and thickness, so use fresh eggs for the best results.
- Cover to Prevent a Skin: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming as it chills.
- Customize the Flavor: For a twist, add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor or a splash of peppermint extract for a holiday treat.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerator: Store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent a skin from forming, press plastic wrap onto the surface.
Freezer: Although pudding can separate when frozen, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and whisk to restore consistency.
Reheating Tip: If you want to enjoy it warm, gently heat the pudding on the stovetop or microwave before serving, stirring occasionally to avoid separation.
Conclusion:
This Classic Chocolate Pudding is a timeless dessert that delivers smooth, rich chocolate flavor with a creamy texture. Perfect for dessert lovers of all ages, it’s quick to make and satisfies any chocolate craving. Whether you enjoy it warm, chilled, or in a pie, this homemade chocolate pudding is sure to become a family favorite. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a comforting and indulgent treat right from your own kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and indulge in the delightful taste of homemade chocolate pudding!