Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups

Name: Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Whipped cream; Chocolate shavings (optional); Fresh berries (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love indulging in a rich dessert that feels decadent yet is surprisingly simple to make. These Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups are my go-to treat when I'm craving something sweet and satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up this silky dessert in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for an after-dinner delight or a special occasion. Trust me, once you make this velvety pudding, you'll be reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:40:06.754Z

When I first tried making chocolate pudding from scratch, I was amazed at how easy it was to achieve such rich flavor and texture. My secret? A bit of cocoa powder paired with high-quality dark chocolate really elevates the taste. The combination creates a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. I also like to let it chill for a while; it thickens beautifully, which gives that perfect pudding experience.

This recipe is not just for special occasions. I find that having a few cups of this pudding ready in the fridge makes for a delightful treat any day of the week. Just serve it in small cups topped with a dollop of whipped cream, and you have a sophisticated dessert that impresses every time.

        Why You'll Love These Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups
        Decadent, rich chocolate flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth.
Silky smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion.

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Pudding

To achieve that luscious, creamy consistency in your chocolate pudding, the whisking process is essential. When combining the dry ingredients, ensure they are thoroughly blended before adding the milk. This step prevents clumping during cooking. Once you start heating the mixture, keep stirring to avoid any lumps from forming and to ensure even cooking. The mixture will gradually thicken; you’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.

Using high-quality dark chocolate is crucial in this recipe. I recommend selecting chocolate with at least 60-70% cocoa content for a rich flavor that balances the sweetness of the sugar. If you're in a pinch, semi-sweet chocolate can work, but it may alter the overall depth of flavor. As the chocolate melts into the warm pudding, it will provide a glossy finish that’s visually appealing and indulgently delicious.

Chilling and Serving Tips

Chilling the pudding is key to achieving the right texture. After pouring the pudding into cups, cover them with plastic wrap to prevent any skin from forming on the surface. Allow the pudding to chill for at least two hours, although leaving it overnight helps deepen the flavors. As the pudding sets, it will become thicker and smoother, enhancing that satisfying mouthfeel with each creamy spoonful.

When it comes to serving, consider layering the pudding with whipped cream and fresh berries for an eye-catching presentation. Not only does this add a lovely contrast to the rich chocolate, but it also brings freshness that cuts through the richness. If serving for a special occasion, chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder on top can elevate the dessert, making it look as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

For the Pudding

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For Serving

Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings (optional)
Fresh berries (optional)

Make sure to keep stirring continuously while cooking to avoid lumps!

Instructions

Combine dry ingredients

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.

Add milk

Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.

Cook the pudding

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continue to stir constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to boil, about 8-10 minutes.

Add chocolate and vanilla

Remove from heat, and stir in the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla extract until fully melted and smooth.

Cool and serve

Pour the pudding into serving cups and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Serve with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.

Enjoy your creamy dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using low-fat or almond milk instead of whole milk. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the creaminess, but it can still yield a delightful pudding. For a vegan variation, substitute the whole milk with a dairy-free alternative, and use dairy-free dark chocolate to maintain that rich chocolate essence while making it suitable for a plant-based diet.

For those with dietary restrictions, cornstarch is a common thickening agent, but it can be swapped with arrowroot or potato starch if needed. Both alternatives will provide a similar texture in the pudding. Just make sure to adjust the quantity slightly, as they may have different thickening power.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups are perfect for making in advance. You can prepare the pudding up to three days ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to cover the surface with plastic wrap to avoid skin formation or drying out. The flavors will intensify over time, making it an even more delightful treat when you’re ready to serve it.

If you have leftover pudding, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure to give it a good stir before serving, as it may separate slightly. Avoid freezing this pudding, as the texture can change upon thawing—keeping it chilled ensures you retain that silky-smooth consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pudding dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the whole milk with almond milk or any other non-dairy milk of your choice.

→ How long can I store the pudding?

The pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor or semi-sweet chocolate for a balanced taste.

→ What can I use as a topping?

Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries all make excellent toppings for this chocolate pudding.