Silky and smooth, this Dark Chocolate Pudding is a rich and indulgent dessert you can make from scratch. With deep chocolate flavor and a creamy texture, itโs the perfect treat for any chocolate lover.
Dark Chocolate Pudding is a dessert that combines simplicity with decadence. Made with rich cocoa and a smooth, creamy texture, itโs the perfect treat for chocolate lovers who want something both satisfying and elegant.
This homemade version is easy to prepare with just a few basic ingredients, yet it delivers a luxurious flavor that feels gourmet. Whether served warm or chilled, itโs a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or topped with whipped cream, fresh berries, or chocolate shavings. It is just as easy to make as Orange Pudding and Oreo Pudding.
Table of contents
Why We Love This
- Rich and Velvety โ The texture is smooth and creamy with a deep chocolate taste.
- Simple Ingredients โ Made with pantry staples, no complicated steps required.
- Versatile Treat โ Delicious served warm, chilled, or dressed up with toppings.
- Better than Store-Bought โ Homemade pudding has a fresher, more intense flavor.
- Family Favorite โ A comforting dessert everyone will enjoy including the kids and guests.
Ingredients
- Egg yolks โ help thicken the pudding and give it a silky texture.
- Whole milk โ adds richness and creaminess.
- Granulated sugar โ sweetens and balances the dark chocolate flavor.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder โ deepens the chocolate taste.
- Cornstarch โ thickens the pudding to the perfect consistency.
- Salt โ enhances the overall flavor.
- Pure vanilla extract โ adds warmth and depth.
- Dark or bittersweet chocolate chips โ create a bold, intense chocolate flavor.
- Butter โ makes the pudding smooth and velvety.
Find the complete ingredient list and recipe in the printable recipe card at the bottom.
Variations
- Mint Chocolate Pudding โ Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
- Espresso Chocolate Pudding โ Stir in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Spicy Chocolate Pudding โ Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle, warming kick.
- Salted Chocolate Pudding โ Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before serving for a sweet-and-salty contrast.
- Layered Pudding Parfait โ Layer with whipped cream, crushed cookies, or fruit for a visually appealing dessert.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Pudding โ Swirl in creamy peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1. Use a medium saucepan or pot and whisk together the egg yolks, milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, salt and vanilla extract together.
Step 2. Once combined, heat the saucepan over medium-high heat. Continuously whisk until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Then stir in ยฝ cup chocolate chips and butter. Reduce heat to medium.
Step 3. Allow the mixture to cook until thickened. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the pan to prevent sticking or burning. Cook for about 8โ10 minutes, or until the pudding is thick and smooth. It should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape.
Step 4. Finally, divide the pudding into 6 small cups or ramekin dishes. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of each pudding to prevent a skin from forming on the surface of the pudding. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and the perfect texture.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4โ5 days. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing to prevent a skin from forming.
Freezer: Not recommended, as freezing can change the texture and make the pudding watery once thawed.
Serving Tip: Stir well before serving if it has been chilled, and top with whipped cream or chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.
Pro Tips
- Smooth Texture: Whisk constantly while cooking to prevent lumps and ensure a silky consistency.
- Strain if Needed: For extra-smooth pudding, strain the hot mixture through a fine-mesh strainer before chilling.
- Rich Flavor: Use high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate for the deepest chocolate taste.
- Serving Idea: Instead of individual ramekins, pour the pudding into a graham cracker crust and let it set overnight for an easy, decadent chocolate pie.
- Perfect Topping: Add freshly whipped cream, chocolate curls, or a dusting of cocoa powder just before serving. We love Homemade Whipped Cream.
More Homemade Pudding Recipes
I can’t wait for you to try this luscious homemade Dark Chocolate Pudding Recipe. Make it today and come back and leave a comment. It helps a lot hearing your feedback.
Dark Chocolate Pudding
Ingredients
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 cups whole milk
- ยฝ cup granulated sugar
- ยผ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- ยผ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ยฝ cup dark chocolate chips or bittersweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, salt and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
- Heat the saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook while whisking constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in ยฝ cup chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons butter. Reduce heat to medium.
- Continue to cook, stirring constantly with a whisk or silicone spatula until thickened. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the pan to prevent sticking or burning. The pudding will begin to thicken after a few minutes.
- Cook for about 8โ10 minutes, or until the pudding is thick and smooth. It should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape.
- Evenly divide the pudding into 6 small cups or ramekins. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of each pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Then the pudding is ready to serve and enjoy!
Dark Chocolate Pudding!
Levella – Can’t wait for you to try it!