Introduction
Dark Chocolate Pudding is a rich, velvety dessert that combines the decadence of dark chocolate with a smooth, creamy texture. This indulgent treat is perfect for chocolate lovers who crave a dessert that’s both satisfying and luxurious. Unlike traditional chocolate pudding made with milk and eggs, dark chocolate pudding can be made dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet. This pudding is also incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients to create a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, enjoying it as a special treat for yourself, or offering it as a healthier alternative to other sugary desserts, dark chocolate pudding is versatile and delicious. With its deep, bittersweet flavor and smooth consistency, it offers a balance of indulgence and sophistication, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

The History of Dark Chocolate Pudding
The origins of chocolate pudding can be traced back to Europe in the 17th century when chocolate was first introduced to the continent. Early versions of chocolate pudding were often made with milk, sugar, and cocoa, creating a rich, velvety custard. Dark chocolate pudding, specifically, emerged in the 19th century when the use of dark chocolate became more popular in desserts due to its intense, bittersweet flavor. Over time, chocolate pudding recipes evolved, with variations appearing that substituted dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives for a healthier, more inclusive option. The popularity of dark chocolate pudding surged in the 20th century, especially as people began to appreciate the potential health benefits of dark chocolate, such as its antioxidants. Today, dark chocolate pudding is enjoyed worldwide and can be made in various forms, from traditional custard-style pudding to vegan and sugar-free versions. This dessert’s history reflects the evolution of chocolate as a luxurious ingredient that has become a staple in kitchens around the world.

Ingredients Breakdown
Dark chocolate pudding is made using a combination of simple ingredients, each playing a key role in creating a rich, creamy dessert:

Dark Chocolate: The star ingredient, providing the pudding with its deep, intense chocolate flavor. A good quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content is ideal for the best results.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the bitterness of the dark chocolate. Depending on your taste preference, you can use granulated sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup.
Cocoa Powder: Enhances the chocolate flavor, giving the pudding a richer taste and a more intense chocolate depth.
Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent, giving the pudding its creamy texture without the need for eggs or dairy.
Non-Dairy Milk: For a dairy-free pudding, you can use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. These milks create a smooth base for the pudding and add a subtle flavor that complements the chocolate.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a depth of flavor that enhances the chocolate and brings warmth to the pudding.
Salt: A pinch of salt helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the chocolate and balances the overall flavor.
Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil: Adds richness and smoothness to the pudding, making it velvety and indulgent without the need for dairy.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
Add the Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour in the non-dairy milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until everything is well combined.
Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking continuously. As it heats up, the pudding will begin to thicken. Once it reaches a pudding-like consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Add the Chocolate: Stir in the dark chocolate, vegan butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Continue to whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the pudding is smooth and glossy.
Chill the Pudding: Pour the pudding into serving cups or bowls and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature. Then, cover with plastic wrap (press it directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
Serve: Once chilled, the pudding will be thick and creamy. Top with whipped coconut cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of grated chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

Tips for the Perfect Dark Chocolate Pudding
To make the perfect dark chocolate pudding, here are some helpful tips:

Use High-Quality Dark Chocolate: For the best flavor, choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This will give the pudding a rich, intense flavor.
Constantly Whisk: As you heat the mixture, make sure to whisk constantly to avoid any lumps and ensure the pudding thickens evenly.
Adjust Sweetness: The sweetness of dark chocolate varies, so taste your pudding and adjust the sweetness as needed. You can add more sugar or sweetener if you prefer a sweeter pudding.
Allow the Pudding to Set: Be sure to let the pudding chill for a couple of hours for the best texture. This helps it firm up and develop a smooth, creamy consistency.
Flavor Variations: For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding a dash of espresso powder for a mocha flavor or a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spicy note.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the pudding with fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries, or top it with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for extra creaminess.

Variations and Customizations
Dark chocolate pudding can be easily customized to suit different dietary preferences or flavor profiles:

Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan when made with non-dairy milk and plant-based butter.
Sugar-Free: To make this pudding sugar-free, replace the sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
Gluten-Free: The recipe is already gluten-free, as it uses cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the pudding.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like peppermint extract, orange zest, or a pinch of chili powder for a spiced chocolate pudding.
Peanut Butter: For a creamy, nutty twist, add a spoonful of peanut butter to the pudding as it cooks for a peanut butter chocolate pudding.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Dark chocolate pudding can be a healthier dessert option when made with high-quality ingredients. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health and enhanced brain function. By using non-dairy milk and plant-based butter, this pudding is suitable for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet. Additionally, the pudding is naturally free of refined sugars (if you choose to use natural sweeteners like maple syrup) and can be made lower in sugar by adjusting the sweeteners used. The addition of cornstarch instead of eggs makes this dessert easier to digest for those who are vegan or allergic to eggs. While the pudding is a decadent treat, it can still be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. The rich, satisfying flavor of dark chocolate ensures that a small portion goes a long way in providing a fulfilling dessert experience.

FAQ

Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, this pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
Can I use regular milk instead of non-dairy milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk if you’re not following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
How can I make this pudding thicker?
If you want a thicker pudding, you can increase the amount of cornstarch slightly. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can make the texture too stiff.
Can I add toppings to the pudding?
Absolutely! You can top the pudding with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, berries, or even crushed nuts for added texture.
Can I freeze this pudding?
Yes, this pudding can be frozen, though the texture may change slightly once thawed. To freeze, place it in an airtight container and store for up to 1 month.

Dark Chocolate Pudding

Dark chocolate pudding is a rich and creamy dessert made with high-quality ingredients for a delicious, indulgent treat. It’s versatile, customizable, and can easily be made dairy-free or sugar-free for a healthier option.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings 6

Ingredients

For Dark Chocolate Pudding:

¾ cup 150 grams granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cocoa powder either Dutch-processed or natural cocoa powder works
1 teaspoon espresso powder optional
½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt see note
2 large egg yolks
3 ½ cups 790 grams whole milk
6 ounces 170 grams chopped bittersweet/dark chocolate
4 tablespoons 60 grams unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Tangy Whipped Cream:

1 cup 227 grams heavy cream
2 tablespoons 30 grams sour cream
2 tablespoons 25 grams granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Make the Pudding:

In a medium, heavy-bottomed pot, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, espresso powder (if using), and salt. Add the egg yolks and about ⅓ of the milk, whisking until smooth. Gradually whisk in the remaining milk, then stir in the chopped chocolate.
Set the pot over medium heat. Cook the mixture, whisking constantly and occasionally scraping the thickened pudding off the edges of the pan with a rubber spatula, until the pudding thickens fully and large bubbles start to form and pop, about 8 minutes.
Remove from the heat and immediately strain the pudding through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl, using the spatula to push all the pudding through the strainer. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Leave the pudding in the bowl, or divide it into individual serving dishes and smooth the top. Cover the surface of the pudding with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Make the Whipped Cream:
When ready to serve, place the cream, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Beat on medium speed until the cream forms soft stiff peaks, scraping the bowl halfway through, about 2 minutes.
Serve the chilled pudding with the whipped cream on top. Refer to the note for additional serving suggestions.

Notes

This recipe calls for dark or bittersweet chocolate, with a cacao percentage typically ranging from 60% to 80%. Choose a dark chocolate that you enjoy the taste of.

For the cocoa powder, I recommend using Dutch-processed cocoa for a more rounded flavor, but natural cocoa powder is also suitable if you prefer deep, slightly bitter notes.

This recipe was tested with Diamond Crystal coarse kosher salt. If you’re using Morton’s kosher salt or fine salt, reduce the amount by about half for volume, or use the same amount by weight.

The pudding can be served directly from the refrigerator after chilling. Alternatively, you can whisk it briefly before serving to achieve a creamier, airier texture.

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