Classic Chocolate Pudding

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

  1. 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

  1. 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

  1. 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.
  2. Once the yolks are warmed, pour them into the saucepan with the rest of the milk mixture, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Cook Until Thickened

  1. 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

  1. 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

  1. 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!

  1. 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:

  1. Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: A good-quality cocoa powder will provide a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
  2. Whisk Continuously: To avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture, whisk the pudding constantly as it cooks.
  3. Use Fresh Egg Yolks: Egg yolks add creaminess and thickness, so use fresh eggs for the best results.
  4. Cover to Prevent a Skin: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming as it chills.
  5. 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!