Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups

Name: Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can't get enough of these Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups! They’re rich, indulgent, and incredibly easy to whip up. Whenever I crave a chocolate treat, this recipe always saves the day. The combination of silky chocolate and a hint of vanilla creates a dessert that feels luxurious, yet comes together in just a few simple steps. Whether I’m entertaining guests or just treating myself, these pudding cups never fail to impress. Plus, they’re perfect for showcasing in beautiful glassware, making each serving feel even more special.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:58:12.727Z

One of my favorite indulgences has always been chocolate pudding, and making it from scratch elevates the experience to a whole new level. During my last baking adventure, I decided to explore a richer texture, and that’s when I discovered the trick of using both cocoa powder and dark chocolate. The result was a velvety pudding that’s both decadent and satisfying.

I also learned the importance of constantly whisking to prevent lumps. Using a mix of heavy cream and whole milk gives an incredibly creamy base that you just can’t achieve with regular milk. Trust me, making this dessert will become a beloved ritual in your kitchen!

        Why You'll Love These Pudding Cups
        Decadent chocolate flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth
Silky and creamy texture that feels luxurious
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Mastering the Chocolate Base

The key to achieving a rich and decadent chocolate pudding lies in the quality of the cocoa powder and dark chocolate used. For the best results, opt for a high-quality cocoa powder that’s unsweetened, as it packs a deep chocolate flavor without added sugar altering the taste. When selecting dark chocolate, aim for a cocoa content of at least 60-70%. This will ensure a robust flavor that balances beautifully with the creaminess of the pudding.

Don’t rush the cooking process. As you whisk continuously over medium heat, keep an eye on the texture of the pudding. It should begin to thicken and bubble within about 5 minutes. The mixture will go from a liquid state to a smooth, creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. This step is crucial to avoid undercooked pudding that can result in a grainy texture.

Chilling and Serving Tips

After pouring the pudding into your serving cups, it's important to let it chill for at least 2 hours. This not only helps the pudding set properly but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. If you're in a hurry, you can pop them in the freezer for about 30 minutes, but be sure to monitor them closely to avoid freezing the pudding completely.

For a sophisticated presentation, consider layering the pudding with whipped cream or fresh berries in clear glassware. This adds an attractive visual element as well as additional textures and flavors. I love garnishing with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or shaved dark chocolate on top just before serving for a final touch that impresses guests.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to bring your pudding cups to life:

Ingredients for Creamy Chocolate Pudding

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

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious pudding cups:

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Add Milk and Cream

Gradually stir in the whole milk and heavy cream, making sure to mix until there are no lumps.

Cook the Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and continuously whisk the mixture until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 5 minutes.

Incorporate Chocolate and Vanilla

Remove the saucepan from heat and add in the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla extract, stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

Chill and Serve

Pour the pudding into serving cups or bowls and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy!

Once your pudding is set, it’s time to enjoy this creamy indulgence!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, top your chocolate pudding with whipped cream and grated chocolate or serve with fresh berries.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make a dairy-free version of these pudding cups, try substituting the whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk and coconut cream. These alternatives will provide a similar creaminess while contributing unique flavors. Additionally, look for dairy-free dark chocolate to complete the recipe without any dairy ingredients.

For those who may want to reduce their sugar intake, you can substitute the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar. Keep in mind that these substitutes may slightly alter the final texture, so adjust the amount accordingly and taste test as you go to achieve your desired sweetness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Suggestions

These pudding cups are a fantastic make-ahead dessert, perfect for entertaining or satisfying a late-night sweet tooth. They can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. When storing, cover the cups with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on the surface of the pudding.

If you have leftovers (though unlikely!), they can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to give them a gentle stir before serving to smooth out any slight textural changes that might occur during storage. This pudding can also be frozen for longer storage; simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving again for best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the pudding a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes! You can substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a dairy-free chocolate.

→ How long will the pudding last in the fridge?

The pudding can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, but it's best enjoyed within the first 2-3 days for optimal texture.

→ Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can use powdered sugar instead; just use slightly less than the amount of granulated sugar to avoid an overly sweet taste.