Go Back Email Link
Rich homemade chocolate pudding topped with whipped cream
Print Recipe

Chocolate Pudding

Rich, creamy homemade chocolate pudding from Joy of Cooking. Made with cocoa powder, sugar, semisweet chocolate, and half-and-half.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup warm water
  • 1 ounce semisweet chocolate finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
  • Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

  • Before starting, have a medium bowl or individual serving bowls ready.
  • In a heavy saucepan, mix together the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
  • Gradually stir in the warm water until it becomes a smooth paste.
  • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil while stirring constantly.
  • When it starts to boil, remove from heat and add in the chopped chocolate (optional).
  • Gently stir in 1 3/4 cups of the half-and-half.
  • Add the cornstarch to the remaining 1/4 cup of half-and-half and mix thoroughly to make a smooth paste.
  • Add the cornstarch mixture to the chocolate mixture and whisk to ensure even distribution.
  • Place the pan back over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture starts to thicken.
  • When the mixture just starts to thicken, lower the heat to low and cook for 1 minute while stirring briskly.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla.
  • Pour the pudding into the prepared bowl or serving cups.
  • Cover with plastic wrap to protect from forming a skin.
  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
  • Top with whipped cream and serve. Pudding will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Notes

Recipe from Joy of Cooking. The semisweet chocolate is optional but adds richness. Use smaller individual serving bowls rather than large containers for better portion control. Pudding is rich and decadent.