Chocolate Pudding with Cream (Print Version)
A rich and creamy chocolate dessert featuring smooth pudding and fluffy whipped cream topping.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pudding
01 - 2 cups whole milk
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 3 tablespoons cornstarch
05 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - 3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
→ Whipped Cream
08 - 1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled
09 - 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
10 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add milk while whisking to dissolve all dry ingredients.
02 - Place saucepan over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5 to 7 minutes.
03 - Remove from heat. Stir in chopped chocolate and vanilla extract until chocolate melts and pudding is smooth.
04 - Pour pudding into 4 serving dishes. Cool slightly, then cover surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until fully chilled.
05 - In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
06 - Top each chilled pudding with a generous dollop of whipped cream before serving.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- It comes together in under 20 minutes of actual work, making it the easiest way to feel like you've done something impressive.
- The whipped cream topping transforms something nursery-like into something grown-up and luxurious without any fuss.
02 -
- Constant whisking while heating is not optional—it's what keeps the texture smooth instead of grainy, and it's the whole point of using cornstarch.
- Pressing plastic wrap directly onto the pudding surface is the secret to avoiding that rubbery skin; it's a small gesture that completely changes the eating experience.
03 -
- Keep your whipping bowl and beaters in the freezer for 15 minutes before starting—cold equipment makes whipped cream form faster and hold shape longer.
- If you're making this for a crowd, prepare the pudding cups the morning of, then whip cream just before dessert time for maximum impact.