Best Chocolate Pudding Recipe

Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights

Create a rich and creamy chocolate pudding that's sure to delight chocolate lovers of all ages. This easy-to-follow recipe combines simple ingredients to deliver an incredibly smooth texture and deep, indulgent flavor. Perfect for a quick dessert or special occasions, this chocolate pudding can be served on its own or as a topping for your favorite peanut butter pie.

Noah

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-11-24T05:21:31.826Z

This chocolate pudding recipe has been a family favorite for generations. Its rich, velvety texture and intense chocolate flavor make it an irresistible dessert.

The Joy of Homemade Pudding

There's something uniquely satisfying about making your own chocolate pudding from scratch. Unlike store-bought varieties, homemade pudding allows you to control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a healthier and tastier treat. This rich dessert is an excellent way to indulge in comfort food that evokes childhood memories while delighting your own family and friends.

Preparing homemade chocolate pudding is also surprisingly easy! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a velvety dessert that impresses anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. Plus, the process of cooking the pudding can be a fun activity to share with kids, helping them learn about cooking while enjoying a delicious reward at the end.

Serving Suggestions

This chocolate pudding is incredibly versatile, making it a perfect addition to a variety of desserts. Serve it on its own in charming bowls, or layer it in parfait glasses with whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant presentation. You can also drizzle it over slices of chocolate cake for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.

For a unique twist, consider pairing your pudding with a peanut butter pie. The combination of creamy chocolate and nutty peanut butter creates an unforgettable dessert experience. You can use the pudding as a topping, or even incorporate it into the pie filling for an added chocolatey depth.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious chocolate pudding.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your homemade chocolate pudding.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, mix together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.

Add Milk

Slowly whisk in the milk to prevent lumps. Stir continuously over medium heat.

Cook the Mixture

Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.

Add Butter and Vanilla

Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.

Cool and Serve

Pour the pudding into serving bowls and allow to cool before serving.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate pudding as is, or use it as a delightful topping!

Storage and Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover chocolate pudding, you'll be happy to know that it stores wonderfully! Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy a delightful treat anytime without the need to whip up a new batch.

When ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply give the pudding a gentle stir, as it may develop a slight skin on the surface when chilled. If desired, you can boost its creaminess by adding a dollop of whipped cream or mixing in a splash of milk before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question about chocolate pudding is whether it can be made dairy-free. Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk or coconut milk. Be sure to choose unsweetened versions to keep the flavor balanced. The texture may vary slightly, but the delicious chocolate taste will still shine through.

Another frequent inquiry pertains to thickening agents. While cornstarch is a staple in this recipe, some people prefer using alternative thickeners like arrowroot powder or tapioca starch. Feel free to experiment with these options—just keep in mind that different thickeners may yield slightly different textures in your pudding.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can use melted dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

→ How long can I store the chocolate pudding?

The pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Best Chocolate Pudding Recipe

Create a rich and creamy chocolate pudding that's sure to delight chocolate lovers of all ages. This easy-to-follow recipe combines simple ingredients to deliver an incredibly smooth texture and deep, indulgent flavor. Perfect for a quick dessert or special occasions, this chocolate pudding can be served on its own or as a topping for your favorite peanut butter pie.

Prep Time15.0
Cooking Duration10.0
Overall Time25.0

Created by: Noah

Recipe Type: Oven-Baked Delights

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 cups milk
  2. 1/2 cup sugar
  3. 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  4. 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  6. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  7. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a medium saucepan, mix together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.

Step 02

Slowly whisk in the milk to prevent lumps. Stir continuously over medium heat.

Step 03

Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.

Step 04

Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 05

Pour the pudding into serving bowls and allow to cool before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 4g