Chocolate Pudding

Save this recipe on:

Rich, velvety, and indulgent—this Chocolate Pudding is everything you want in a homemade dessert. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, with silky texture and deep cocoa flavor that instantly satisfies your chocolate cravings. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in, need a make-ahead dessert for guests, or just want to treat yourself, this pudding delivers comfort and decadence in every spoonful.

What sets this pudding apart is its real-chocolate flavor and effortless preparation. Unlike boxed mixes, this version lets the cocoa shine with just the right amount of sweetness and a luxurious finish. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings (or enjoyed plain), it’s a dessert that’s both nostalgic and elevated. Get ready to make this a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

---

What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?

For a pudding that’s bold and flavorful, use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate (around 60-70% cacao). The cocoa powder brings depth and richness, while a bit of chopped dark chocolate melted into the mix adds an extra smooth, fudgy finish. Milk chocolate tends to be too sweet and mellow for this recipe, so stick to the darker side for the best results.

---

Ingredients for the Chocolate Pudding

Whole Milk – The creamy base of the pudding. Whole milk creates that silky consistency without being too heavy.

Heavy Cream – For an extra luscious texture and rich mouthfeel.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Delivers that deep, bittersweet chocolate flavor.

Dark Chocolate (chopped) – Melts into the pudding, giving it that fudgy, smooth body.

Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cocoa without overpowering it.

Cornstarch – Thickens the pudding to that perfect spoonable consistency.

Salt – Enhances all the chocolate flavors and balances the sweetness.

Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the cocoa notes.

Butter – Just a small amount stirred in at the end gives the pudding a glossy finish and added richness.

---

How To Make the Chocolate Pudding

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan (off heat), whisk together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. This ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly combined with no clumps before adding liquids.

Step 2: Add the Dairy Slowly

Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously. This helps the mixture stay smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Heat Until Thickened

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, whisking constantly. In about 5 to 8 minutes, it should begin to thicken and start to bubble. Once it thickens to a custard-like consistency, remove from heat.

Step 4: Melt in the Chocolate

Add the chopped dark chocolate and butter to the hot mixture. Stir until both are fully melted and incorporated. The pudding should now look glossy and extra rich.

Step 5: Add Vanilla

Stir in the vanilla extract to finish. This rounds out the chocolate flavor and adds depth.

Step 6: Strain for Smoothness (Optional but Recommended)

For the smoothest texture, pour the pudding through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl. This removes any bits of cooked egg or unmelted chocolate.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Cover the pudding with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface (to prevent a skin from forming). Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. Serve chilled with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.

---

Serving and Storing Chocolate Pudding

Chocolate pudding is best served chilled, topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or curls. For a more indulgent experience, you can also layer it with crushed cookies or serve it parfait-style in glass cups. It’s elegant enough for dinner parties but cozy enough for weekday desserts.

To store, keep the pudding in an airtight container or individual serving cups covered tightly with plastic wrap (pressed against the surface to prevent skin formation). It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture can become grainy after thawing.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between this and instant pudding?

Homemade chocolate pudding uses real ingredients like cocoa, dark chocolate, and heavy cream. It has a richer texture and more intense flavor compared to boxed mixes, which often rely on artificial flavors and thickeners.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use full-fat coconut milk instead of dairy milk and cream, and choose a dairy-free butter substitute and dark chocolate that’s vegan. The result will still be deliciously creamy.

Why is my pudding lumpy?

Lumps usually form if the mixture is not whisked thoroughly while heating or if the cornstarch isn’t fully dissolved before cooking. Straining the pudding before chilling helps ensure a silky texture.

How do I prevent a skin from forming on top?

Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding while it chills. This barrier prevents the air from creating a thick skin.

Can I serve it warm instead of cold?

Absolutely. While traditionally served chilled, warm pudding right off the stove is incredibly comforting. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before digging in.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this pudding is naturally gluten-free as it uses cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour. Just double-check your chocolate and other ingredients to be sure.

---

Want More Pudding & Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If you love this silky Chocolate Pudding, you’ll definitely want to check out these other dreamy desserts from Life with Jam:

• Chocolate Instant Pudding – Creamy, Smooth, and Irresistible if you’re short on time but still crave chocolate comfort.
• Bonnie’s Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake for a decadent layered treat.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups when you’re in the mood for a fruity and creamy combo.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies with a gooey center and chewy bite.
• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for something simple, soft, and sweet.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam on Pinterest

And I’d love to hear how your pudding turned out! Did you go with dark chocolate or tweak it with a splash of espresso? Maybe topped it with berries or crushed toffee bits?

Let’s swap ideas in the comments—every twist makes it better. Questions welcome too!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: