Are you craving a rich, decadent chocolate pudding but want to avoid cornstarch? This recipe delivers a luxuriously smooth and creamy chocolate pudding without relying on any cornstarch whatsoever! It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and simple steps, perfect for a quick dessert or a satisfying healthy treat. Get ready to indulge in this homemade, delicious dish – the best chocolate pudding you'll ever taste!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups whole milk (for extra creaminess!)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Whisk together the dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined. This ensures no lumps in your final pudding!
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Temper the egg yolks: Gradually whisk in about ½ cup of the cold milk into the egg yolks. This gentle tempering prevents the yolks from scrambling when added to the hot mixture.
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Combine the milk and dry ingredients: Gradually whisk the remaining milk into the cocoa mixture until smooth.
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Cook the pudding: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer and thickens slightly. This takes about 5-7 minutes – be patient and keep whisking!
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Stir in the butter and egg yolks: Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully whisk in the tempered egg yolks. Then, stir in the butter pieces until melted and fully incorporated. The butter adds richness and shine.
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Add vanilla and chill: Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pudding to fully set and the flavors to meld.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Pudding:
- Use high-quality cocoa powder: The flavor of your pudding heavily depends on the cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa will give a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.
- Don't rush the cooking process: Low and slow cooking is key to achieving the perfect texture. Constant whisking prevents scorching and lumps.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the pudding to chill completely is essential for achieving the desired creamy consistency.
Variations:
- Espresso Chocolate Pudding: Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha flavor twist.
- Chocolate Mint Pudding: Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla extract.
- Salted Caramel Chocolate Pudding: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the chilled pudding before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 5g
These values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious alternative to store-bought pudding, perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings anytime. Enjoy this quick dinner dessert or healthy meal addition! It's a delicious, homemade dish everyone will love!