Creamy Chocolate Pudding

Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this rich and creamy Chocolate Pudding. Perfectly sweet with a velvety texture, this pudding is made with dark chocolate, butter, and whole milk for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether it's for a cozy family night or a dinner party, this decadent treat is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, and the result is a luxurious pudding that tastes just like the ones you remember from childhood.

What Is Chocolate Pudding?

Chocolate Pudding is a classic dessert that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the smooth texture of a custard-like pudding. While its origins are debated, it’s clear that this treat has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. The key to a perfect chocolate pudding lies in the balance between sweetness and the deep, slightly bitter taste of dark chocolate. Traditionally made with eggs, sugar, milk, and flour, it’s often served chilled, making it a refreshing yet indulgent dessert for all ages.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

This homemade Chocolate Pudding is everything a chocolate lover could dream of—rich, velvety, and bursting with deep, satisfying chocolate flavor. The best part? It’s simple to prepare with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. From its creamy consistency to its sweet yet slightly bitter dark chocolate notes, this pudding is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s also a great make-ahead treat, so you can prepare it in advance and chill it for a hassle-free dessert!

Cooking Tips

1. Use good quality dark chocolate: The flavor of your pudding will heavily depend on the quality of the chocolate you use, so choose one that you really enjoy eating.
2. Avoid lumps: Be sure to whisk continuously when combining the milk with the chocolate mixture to ensure a smooth pudding texture.
3. Let it chill: For the best results, refrigerate the pudding for at least 3 hours to allow it to fully set and develop its rich flavor.
4. Serve with toppings: This pudding is delicious on its own, but you can add a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an extra touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Pudding Without Dark Chocolate?

Yes! You can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter, less intense chocolate flavor.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! In fact, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Simply refrigerate the pudding for at least 3 hours or overnight to let it set properly.

How Do I Prevent Lumps in The Pudding?

The key is to whisk the mixture continuously when adding the hot milk to the chocolate mixture. This will help prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, silky texture.

Can I Use a Different Type of Milk?

You can use any milk substitute, such as almond milk or oat milk, though the pudding may have a slightly different texture and flavor. Whole milk gives the pudding its rich and creamy consistency.

Can I Add a Pinch of Salt to Enhance The Flavor?

Yes! A small pinch of salt can help balance the sweetness and enhance the depth of the chocolate flavor.

How to Freeze

Although this pudding is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the pudding in an airtight container and allow it to cool completely before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. The texture may be slightly altered after freezing, but it will still be delicious!

How to Store

Store the chocolate pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you'd like to prevent a skin from forming on top, you can cover the surface of the pudding with plastic wrap or wax paper before refrigerating.

How To Make Chocolate Pudding

In a saucepan, combine the chocolate, sugar, and butter. Melt over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk with the vanilla seeds. Be sure to scrape out the seeds from the vanilla pod and add them to the milk for extra flavor. Add the flour to the chocolate mixture and whisk until smooth. This will help thicken the pudding.

Gradually pour the hot milk into the chocolate mixture while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.  Place the saucepan back on the heat and bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened.

Pour the pudding into a pudding mold or individual bowls. Let it cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow it to set.

Enjoy!