How to Make the Perfect Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups
American · Easy · 15 min · 6 servings
These silky creamy chocolate pudding cups are an easy kid friendly dessert that can be made in minutes and stored in the fridge for a quick after school treat all week long. Kids love topping their own cups with whipped cream sprinkles and crushed graham crackers for a fun personalized dessert experience.
Why this recipe works
This Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 195 calories with 5g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 7 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 0.33 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream for topping
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium saucepan whisk together the sugar cocoa powder and cornstarch until fully combined with no lumps. Gradually pour in the cold milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth lump free mixture before turning on the heat.
Step 2: Cook the Pudding
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook while stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon for about 8 to 10 minutes until the pudding thickens and begins to bubble. Once it bubbles cook for exactly 1 more minute while stirring then remove from heat.
Step 3: Finish and Pour
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is completely melted and incorporated. Pour the warm pudding into 6 individual serving cups or ramekins distributing evenly.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of each pudding cup to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set and cold. Serve topped with whipped cream and any fun toppings kids want to add.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- whole milk → oat milk or almond milk for a dairy free version though texture may be slightly thinner
- granulated sugar → coconut sugar for a less refined sweetener with a slightly caramel flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not stirring constantly while cooking which causes the pudding to scorch on the bottom of the pan and develop lumps
- Skipping the plastic wrap on the surface which causes an unpleasant thick skin to form on top of the pudding
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 195 calories, 5g protein, 30g carbs, 7g fat, 1g fiber.
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