3 Easy Chocolate Pudding Recipes You'll Love

Chocolate pudding is a timeless dessert, cherished for its rich taste and comforting texture. Whether you're an aspiring chef or a home cook, mastering the art of making chocolate pudding can impress anyone with its simplicity and satisfaction. Here, we will explore three easy recipes for chocolate pudding that are sure to win over any heart and palate.

Classic Stovetop Chocolate Pudding

Let's start with a traditional favorite that embodies the nostalgia and the home-cooked essence of a delicious dessert.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 4 large egg yolks, beaten
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 7 oz semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• Steps:
  1. Whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a heavy saucepan.
  2. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
  4. Remove from heat. Gradually temper the egg yolks by adding about a quarter of the hot pudding mixture while continuously whisking, then return it to the saucepan.
  5. Stir over medium heat until it thickens again.
  6. Off the heat, add vanilla, chocolate, and butter, stirring until everything is melted and smooth.
  7. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving bowl to ensure a silky texture.
  8. Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and chill for at least 3 hours.

🍫 Note: If you prefer a denser pudding, reduce the milk by 1/2 cup and adjust the cornstarch accordingly.

Instant Pot Chocolate Pudding

For those who crave convenience without compromising taste, this Instant Pot recipe is a game-changer.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Steps:
  1. In your Instant Pot, whisk together milk, sugar, cocoa, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
  2. Lock the lid in place and set the pressure valve to sealing.
  3. Manually set to cook at high pressure for 8 minutes.
  4. After cooking, perform a quick release of the pressure.
  5. Whisk the pudding vigorously until smooth. Add vanilla, stir, then cover with plastic wrap directly on the pudding to prevent skin formation. Let cool before serving.

Vegan Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Last but not least, a vegan-friendly and incredibly healthy version of chocolate pudding using avocados.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup almond milk or any plant-based milk
• Steps:
  1. In a food processor, combine all ingredients except almond milk.
  2. Pulse until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Gradually add almond milk while blending until you achieve the desired consistency.
  4. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.

In conclusion, crafting a chocolate pudding can be as simple or as decadent as you wish it to be. From the classic stovetop version that reminds us of home to the swift preparation with an Instant Pot, and even a health-conscious avocado-based pudding, these recipes are versatile enough to suit any occasion, taste, or dietary restriction. Whether you're seeking comfort, convenience, or nutritional benefits, you have the options to impress with homemade chocolate pudding.

What can I do if my chocolate pudding is too runny?

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If your pudding is too runny, continue to cook it over low heat while stirring constantly until it thickens to your desired consistency. If using the Instant Pot or stovetop method, you can also add a bit more cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of chocolate bars?

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Yes, chocolate chips can work, though they might not melt as smoothly as bars or baking chocolate, so you may need to stir longer or even heat the mixture over low heat briefly to help them melt completely.

How can I store leftover pudding?

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Place any leftover pudding in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It should keep for 3-5 days. Make sure to cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.