Description
Creamy Chocolate Pudding
Ingredients:
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate chips or shavings for garnish (optional)
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Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add Milk:
Gradually whisk in the milk to combine, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Cook the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture starts to thicken and comes to a gentle boil.
4. Add Chocolate Chips:
Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth.
5. Add Vanilla:
Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
6. Chill:
Pour the pudding into individual serving bowls and cover with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Top with additional chocolate chips or shavings before serving. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect pudding every time. After whisking the dry ingredients, slowly add a small amount of the cold milk to create a smooth paste before incorporating the rest; this prevents stubborn lumps. When cooking over medium heat, use a flat-bottomed wooden spoon or silicone spatula to stir constantly, scraping the bottom and corners of the pan. The pudding is ready when large bubbles break the surface and it coats the back of your spoon thickly. Immediately transfer it to a clean bowl after adding the vanilla to stop the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile pudding is delicious beyond the bowl. Serve it layered in a glass with whipped cream and crushed cookies for a quick parfait. Use it as a luxurious filling for cakes, pies, or eclairs. For a dinner party, serve in elegant glasses topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a few raspberries. It also makes a fantastic dip for fresh fruit like strawberries or banana slices.
How-to Summary
In summary, combine dry ingredients, whisk in milk to form a lump-free base, and cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until thickened. Off the heat, melt in chocolate chips, stir in vanilla, then chill thoroughly before serving with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a milk alternative?
Yes, full-fat coconut milk or oat milk work well, but the pudding may be slightly less creamy. Avoid skim milk.
Why did my pudding turn out grainy?
Graininess usually means the mixture was overheated or stirred too vigorously after thickening, causing the starch to break down.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Stored airtight with plastic wrap touching the surface, it keeps for 3-4 days.
Can I make this without cornstarch?
Cornstarch is essential for thickening. As a substitute, you can use an equal amount of arrowroot powder.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Use full-fat coconut milk and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. The flavor will be richer and more coconut-forward.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding all the milk at once: This almost guarantees lumps. Always create a paste first.
- Insufficient stirring while cooking: This leads to scorching on the pan bottom and an uneven texture.
- Not bringing it to a full boil: The cornstarch must reach a boil to activate its full thickening power.
- Skipping the plastic wrap touch: Without it, a thick, rubbery skin will form on the pudding’s surface.
- Chilling for too short a time: The pudding needs a full 2+ hours to set properly and develop its flavor.
Conclusion
This creamy chocolate pudding proves that the most satisfying desserts are often the simplest. With a handful of pantry staples and a little patience, you can create a rich, silky, and deeply chocolatey treat that far surpasses anything from a box. Mastering the technique of tempering the ingredients and patient stirring is the key to its flawless texture. Once you’ve tried this homemade version, you’ll have a timeless, crowd-pleasing recipe in your repertoire for years to come.