Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Homemade Dark Chocolate Pudding Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 3 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Homemade Dark Chocolate Pudding is a rich and luscious dessert made with high-quality dark chocolate and cocoa powder. The pudding is smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced in sweetness, offering a decadent treat that’s simple to prepare on the stovetop. Chilled to perfection and garnished with whipped cream and shaved chocolate, this pudding is an elegant and satisfying dessert for any occasion.


Ingredients

For the Pudding

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup 100% cacao unsweetened cocoa powder (such as Scharffen Berger)
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup half & half
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 oz dark chocolate (chopped, at least 85% cacao, such as Scharffen Berger)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean paste)

For Garnish (Optional)

  • Whipped cream
  • Dark chocolate, shaved


Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: Add granulated sugar and salt to a cold small saucepan. Sift in the cornstarch and cocoa powder, then whisk together to evenly combine all dry ingredients.
  2. Add Liquids: Slowly stream in the half & half and whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming and to create a smooth mixture.
  3. Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk continuously as the mixture heats, ensuring it does not stick or clump. Continue until the mixture starts to steam.
  4. Incorporate Chocolate: Before the mixture reaches a full boil, add the chopped dark chocolate. Stir using a rubber spatula until the chocolate melts completely and the pudding thickens to a bubbling consistency.
  5. Finalize Pudding Base: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste) until fully incorporated and smooth.
  6. Portion the Pudding: Divide the pudding evenly among 4 serving dishes. To prevent skin from forming on the pudding surface, place plastic wrap directly on top of each pudding portion.
  7. Chill: Refrigerate the pudding for approximately 2 hours or until it is fully chilled and set.
  8. Serve: Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap. Garnish each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.

Notes

  • Using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 85% cacao ensures a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
  • Placing plastic wrap directly on the pudding surface prevents an unappealing skin from forming during refrigeration.
  • The pudding thickens as it cools; do not overcook or it may become too dense.
  • This recipe can be easily doubled or halved depending on serving needs.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute half & half and milk with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk, but texture may vary.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American