Chocolate Pudding

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Rich, creamy, and absolutely indulgent, chocolate pudding is the kind of dessert that brings back warm childhood memories while still feeling just as satisfying today. Whether it was served chilled in a small cup after dinner or layered into a decadent trifle, this treat has long been a staple in American homes. What makes it extra special is how simple it is to whip up from scratch—no boxed mixes necessary.

This homemade version is velvety smooth and intensely chocolatey, with just the right balance of sweetness. It’s made on the stovetop with pantry staples and delivers the kind of luscious texture that melts slowly on your tongue. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, which means it’s a perfect make-ahead dessert for weeknights or holiday gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Pudding

This chocolate pudding checks all the boxes: comfort food, crowd-pleaser, and shockingly easy to make. It doesn’t rely on any fancy ingredients or equipment—just a saucepan, a whisk, and a little patience. The result is an ultra-silky pudding that rivals anything you’d find in a fancy bakery.

It also happens to be a wonderful gluten-free option that can easily be adapted for dairy-free diets. Serve it in individual cups topped with whipped cream or layer it into parfaits with crushed cookies and berries.

Can I Use Cocoa Powder or Chocolate Bars?

Great question! For this recipe, both unsweetened cocoa powder and a bit of chopped chocolate are used to deepen the flavor. Cocoa powder gives the pudding that rich base, while real chocolate adds an extra layer of decadence and smoothness.

If you only have one or the other, you can still make a delicious pudding. Just know that using both really enhances the overall experience and brings out the best chocolate flavor.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Pudding

Chocolate pudding uses basic pantry and fridge staples, and each one plays an essential role in getting that dreamy consistency just right.

Whole milk is the foundation of the pudding, making it creamy and smooth. Skim milk won’t give the same texture.

Granulated sugar adds the perfect sweetness to balance the cocoa’s bitterness.

Unsweetened cocoa powder provides that deep chocolate base that defines the entire dessert.

Cornstarch is the thickener that transforms this mixture into pudding. Without it, you’d just have chocolate milk!

Salt might seem odd, but a pinch enhances all the chocolatey flavors.

Chopped dark chocolate (or semi-sweet) enriches the flavor and gives the pudding its glossy finish.

Vanilla extract rounds everything out with a warm, sweet aroma.

Butter stirred in at the end gives a silky mouthfeel and elevates the richness.

How To Make the Chocolate Pudding

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan (off the heat), whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Add the Milk

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to keep the mixture lump-free. Place the saucepan over medium heat.

Step 3: Cook Until Thickened

Continue whisking constantly as the mixture heats up. Within 5 to 10 minutes, it should start to thicken into a pudding-like texture.

Step 4: Stir in the Chocolate

Once thick, remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate, vanilla extract, and butter. Keep stirring until everything is fully melted and smooth.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Pour the pudding into individual cups or a large bowl. Press plastic wrap directly on top of the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

How to Serve and Store Chocolate Pudding

This recipe yields about 4 to 6 servings, depending on portion size. Chocolate pudding is best served chilled and topped with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if you love that sweet-and-salty combo.

You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep it covered to prevent any fridge smells from affecting the flavor. If it thickens too much after refrigeration, a quick whisk before serving will bring it back to life.

What to Serve With Chocolate Pudding?

Whipped Cream

A swirl of whipped cream makes this dessert even more irresistible.

Crushed Biscotti or Graham Crackers

Add crunch by layering crushed cookies into the pudding for texture.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or cherries complement the richness of the chocolate perfectly.

Sea Salt

A tiny pinch on top enhances flavor and adds an unexpected gourmet touch.

Espresso or Coffee

Pair your pudding with a shot of espresso for a bold contrast.

Chocolate Shavings or Curls

Top it with extra chocolate for visual appeal and flavor.

Caramel Drizzle

Swirl a bit of caramel sauce over the top for a deeper sweetness.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you love this chocolate pudding, you’ll definitely enjoy these other decadent desserts:

• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
• Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler
• Ooey Gooey Bars
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars
• Strawberry Flaky Puff Dreams

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you top it with whipped cream or go wild with caramel and berries?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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