Chocolate Pudding

Save this recipe on:

There’s something endlessly comforting about a silky-smooth chocolate pudding. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold night or craving a late-night treat, this homemade version delivers deep chocolate flavor with a luscious texture that rivals any store-bought cup. It’s rich, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make.

What sets this chocolate pudding apart is its balance. The richness of dark chocolate meets the creaminess of milk, with just enough sugar to sweeten without overpowering. And when topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings? Pure bliss.

What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?

Go for a high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate—at least 60% cacao. Bars melt more evenly than chips, giving you a smoother finish. But if chips are what you have on hand, they’ll still work beautifully. Avoid milk chocolate; it tends to make the pudding overly sweet and less chocolate-forward.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Pudding

• Whole Milk: Adds richness and helps dissolve the dry ingredients evenly.
• Heavy Cream: For extra creamy texture and a luxurious mouthfeel.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pudding just right.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor and enhances color.
• Cornstarch: The key thickening agent that gives pudding its classic consistency.
• Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances chocolatey notes.
• Egg Yolks: Enrich the pudding and contribute to that dreamy, custard-like texture.
• Butter: Adds silkiness and depth.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, aromatic finish.
• Dark Chocolate (chopped): Melts into the pudding for a rich and intense flavor.

---

How To Make the Chocolate Pudding

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. This helps prevent clumping later on.

Step 2: Add Dairy and Yolks

Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Then, whisk in the egg yolks.

Step 3: Cook Until Thickened

Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in Chocolate and Butter

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla until completely melted and smooth.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Pour into serving dishes, press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent skin from forming, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

---

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Dessert

Serve chocolate pudding chilled in small dessert cups, mason jars, or ramekins for a touch of charm. Top with whipped cream, berries, chocolate curls, or a dash of sea salt for added flair.

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, keep the plastic wrap touching the surface to avoid skin. This pudding does not freeze well, as the texture will change upon thawing.

What to Serve With Chocolate Pudding?

Fresh Berries

A handful of raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries adds a refreshing tartness.

Crushed Biscotti or Cookies

Crunchy toppings like biscotti, amaretti, or shortbread offer a lovely contrast.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Drizzle a little homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for a decadent twist.

Whipped Cream

Classic and always welcome. Try it with a touch of cinnamon or espresso powder.

Toasted Nuts

Pecans or hazelnuts bring a nutty crunch and flavor depth.

Espresso Shot

A small glass of espresso sharpens the chocolate notes and pairs beautifully.

Mint Leaves

Adds brightness and a clean finish to each bite.

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels

Sweet meets salty and crunchy—a playful, delightful pairing.

---

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If this creamy chocolate pudding hits the spot, you’ll love diving into these other dessert favorites from Chef Alchemy:

• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a tart-meets-sweet indulgence.
• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie if you love pudding in pie form.
• Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for a swirl of spice and creaminess.
• Classic Cherry Delight for a nostalgic layered treat.
• Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting if you’re up for more pudding magic.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add espresso? Or swirl in some peanut butter? I love hearing about your creative spins.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great! For more daily indulgent creations, follow me on Pinterest.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: