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The Best Creamy Homemade Chocolate Pudding from Scratch

Close-up of thick, glossy homemade chocolate pudding swirled in a white ceramic ramekin.
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Make rich, silky smooth homemade chocolate pudding on the stovetop using simple pantry staples. This easy recipe beats any boxed mix and delivers decadent comfort food in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and cornstarch until fully combined.
  2. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth and no lumps remain.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the mixture thickens and just begins to bubble. This takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Do not stop stirring.
  4. In a small bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks. Temper the yolks by slowly pouring about 1/2 cup of the hot pudding mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly.
  5. Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining pudding. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until the pudding is very thick. Do not let it boil rapidly after adding the yolks.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter melts and is fully incorporated.
  7. Pour the pudding into individual serving bowls or a single large bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
  8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely cold and set.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use bittersweet chocolate instead of just cocoa powder, melting 2 ounces in with the butter at the end.
  • If you find small lumps after chilling, whisk the pudding vigorously before serving to restore a smooth texture.
  • This recipe is naturally vegetarian.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/homemade-chocolate-pudding/