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Best Creamy & Easy Homemade Chocolate Pudding from Scratch

A spoonful of rich, creamy chocolate pudding being lifted from a white bowl, showing its thick texture.

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Make rich, velvety smooth chocolate pudding on the stovetop. This easy recipe skips the box mix and delivers a classic comfort dessert that is ready in minutes.

Ingredients

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  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons 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 combined.
  2. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. This takes about 5 to 8 minutes.
  4. Once boiling, continue to cook and whisk for 1 minute to cook out the cornstarch taste. Remove the pan from the heat.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks lightly. Temper the yolks by slowly whisking about 1/2 cup of the hot pudding mixture into the yolks.
  6. Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
  7. Return the saucepan to medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until the pudding thickens again. Do not allow it to boil after adding the yolks.
  8. Remove from heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
  9. Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a single bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
  10. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely cold and set.

Notes

  • For an extra indulgent treat, top the chilled pudding with homemade whipped cream or fresh berries before serving.
  • This recipe makes a perfect portion for two people if you use larger serving bowls, or four standard servings.
  • If you want a deeper chocolate flavor, substitute 1/4 cup of the milk with 1/4 cup of strong brewed coffee.

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