Homemade Chocolate Pudding

Homemade Chocolate Pudding is a delightful and indulgent dessert that captivates chocolate lovers with its rich and creamy texture. This classic dessert stands out for its simplicity and homemade touch, offering a comforting and nostalgic experience.

What makes this pudding special is the use of high-quality dark chocolate, which brings a deep and intense flavor to the dessert. The combination of cocoa powder, sugar, and cornstarch creates a smooth and velvety consistency that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.
2. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to ensure there are no lumps.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the finely chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan. Stir until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and thick.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the butter has melted and the ingredients are fully incorporated.
6. Transfer the pudding mixture to individual serving dishes or a large serving bowl. Cover the surface of the pudding with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Ensure the plastic wrap touches the surface of the pudding.
7. Allow the pudding to cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until it is chilled and set.
8. Once the pudding is fully chilled, remove the plastic wrap and serve it as is or with desired toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.

Note: You can adjust the sweetness of the pudding by adding more or less sugar according to your taste preference. Also, feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk or semi-sweet, to vary the flavor.

Chocolate Pudding Tips:

• Whisk all the dry ingredients together to prevent lumps in the pudding.
• Gradually add milk, whisking well after each addition until the mixture is smooth.
• Stir constantly while bringing the mixture to a boil to avoid lumps.
• Whole milk is recommended for a thick and creamy texture.
• Using lighter milks or alternative milk options may result in a thin pudding.
• Consider serving the pudding as a pie by filling a baked pastry shell with hot pudding and refrigerating it overnight. Top with whipped cream before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Pudding!