Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups

Name: Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 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; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating sweet treats that satisfy my chocolate cravings, and these Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups are a favorite. The rich, velvety texture combined with deep chocolate flavor is simply irresistible. I make these for both casual evenings and special occasions, and they always impress. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward preparation, I can whip these up in no time. Plus, they’re a delightful way to enjoy chocolate, and I often garnish them with fresh fruits or whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:49:13.298Z

When I first tried making chocolate pudding from scratch, I was amazed at how easy it was to create something so rich and indulgent. It only takes a few simple ingredients, and the result is a creamy delight that beats anything store-bought. One key detail I learned is to thoroughly whisk the mixture as it cooks to avoid lumps and achieve that smooth texture.

I also love experimenting with flavors, such as adding a hint of vanilla or coffee for a twist. Each time I make these cups, I’m reminded of how such simple ingredients can yield an impressive dessert that’s always a hit with family and friends.

        Why You'll Love These Pudding Cups
        Decadent chocolate flavor that satisfies cravings
Perfectly smooth and creamy texture
Quick and easy to prepare, suitable for any occasion

      

The Role of Each Ingredient

In this Creamy Chocolate Pudding Cups recipe, every ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the ultimate texture and flavor. Whole milk is pivotal for the pudding's creaminess, providing the rich mouthfeel that complements the cocoa powder. The unsweetened cocoa powder adds deep chocolate intensity, while the granulated sugar balances the bitterness perfectly. Cornstarch is essential here, acting as a thickening agent; it helps to create the pudding's smooth consistency and a delightful, indulgent experience.

Don't overlook vanilla extract and butter even though they are added at the end. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, rounding out the chocolate notes, while the butter adds an extra layer of richness and silkiness. It creates a luxurious pudding that feels decadent with every spoonful, ensuring that your dessert is not just satisfying but also sophisticated.

Chilling for the Perfect Set

Once you’ve cooked the pudding mixture to the right thickness, chilling it is paramount for achieving the perfect texture. Make sure to pour the pudding into individual serving cups immediately, as this helps it cool down evenly. Covering the cups with plastic wrap prevents a skin from forming on top and ensures a smooth finish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours; however, for the best results, letting it sit overnight deepens the flavor and allows it to set perfectly.

While chilling, consider how you’ll serve your pudding. Not only is it beautiful presented in clear cups, but you can also garnish it with whipped cream, shaved chocolate, or fresh berries. Each of these additions contributes not only to the visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profiles, making your pudding cups look as exquisite as they taste.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious pudding cups:

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Once you have these ingredients ready, you can easily proceed to make your pudding cups!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy chocolate pudding cups:

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix with Milk

Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking until there are no lumps.

Heat the Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to boil, about 5 minutes.

Add Flavorings

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until melted and smooth.

Chill the Pudding

Pour the pudding into individual serving cups and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

Once chilled, enjoy your chocolate pudding cups plain or topped with whipped cream and fresh berries!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top before serving. This enhances the chocolate experience beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your pudding has lumps after cooking, the most common cause is not whisking enough when adding the milk. To fix this, simply strain the mixture through a fine sieve into another saucepan before chilling it. This will ensure a smooth consistency. Additionally, if the pudding doesn't thicken, it may not have been cooked long enough. Return it to the stove and continue cooking on medium heat, stirring constantly, until you see it start to bubble.

Another issue could be if the pudding sets too firmly. This might happen if too much cornstarch was used. To remedy this in future batches, carefully measure the cornstarch. If you find yourself with overly thick pudding, you can gently fold in a little additional milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Pudding Cups can be made ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for entertaining. Once fully set, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just be gentle when removing the wrap to avoid disturbing any garnishes you may have added on top.

If you're considering freezing the pudding, I recommend doing so without any garnishes, as toppings can become soggy when thawed. Once frozen, the texture may change slightly, so use this as a last resort. To thaw, place the pudding in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and give it a gentle stir to bring back some of its creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat milk?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat milk, but the pudding may not be as creamy.

→ How long will the pudding last in the fridge?

The pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this pudding dairy-free?

Yes, you can use almond milk or coconut milk in place of whole milk.

→ What can I add as toppings?

Fresh berries, whipped cream, or shaved chocolate are great options to enhance the pudding.