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The Best Silky, Creamy, Homemade Chocolate Pudding From Scratch

Close-up of rich, dark chocolate pudding swirled in a small ceramic bowl.

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Make rich, velvety chocolate pudding on the stovetop using simple pantry ingredients. This foolproof recipe delivers a classic comfort dessert that is far better than any boxed mix.

Ingredients

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  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 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 sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until combined.
  2. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the mixture thickens significantly and begins to bubble. This usually takes 8 to 10 minutes.
  4. Once boiling, continue to cook and whisk for 1 minute to cook out the cornstarch flavor. Remove the pan from the heat.
  5. In a small bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks. 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 with the remaining pudding. Return the pan to low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until the pudding is thick. Do not let it boil after adding the yolks.
  7. Remove from heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
  8. 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.
  9. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely cold and set. Serve cold for a truly silky smooth texture.

Notes

  • For an extra rich flavor, substitute 1/2 cup of the milk with 1/2 cup of heavy cream.
  • If you want a deeper chocolate taste, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
  • This pudding is excellent served in small jars for easy make-ahead dessert portions.

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