Dad's Homemade Chocolate Pudding - Rich Stovetop Dessert

Prep: 5 minCook: 30 min4 servingsmediumAmerican
Dad's Homemade Chocolate Pudding - Rich Stovetop Dessert

A rich, creamy chocolate pudding made from scratch with simple pantry ingredients. This old-fashioned stovetop method creates a silky smooth texture with deep chocolate flavor from cocoa powder. Perfect for a comforting family dessert or special occasion treat. The pudding is delicious served warm or can be transformed into frozen popsicles for a fun summer variation. Small lumps that may form during cooking add to the homemade charm and rustic appeal.

VegetarianGluten-FreeNut-Free

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 2 ¾ cups milk
    plant milk1:1vegandairy-free

    Use unsweetened for best results

    Full guide →
  • ⅝ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa
    chocolate chips1/4 cup chips for 3 tbsp cocoaindulgent

    Melt with milk for richer flavor

  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter
    vegan butter1:1vegandairy-freedairy-free

    Maintains richness

    Full guide →
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place milk in medium saucepan and begin to heat

  2. 2

    Mix together dry ingredients and gradually whisk into milk

  3. 3

    Bring mixture to a gentle boil

  4. 4

    Stir in butter and vanilla

  5. 5

    Simmer and stir constantly for 20-30 minutes

  6. 6

    Pour immediately into individual serving bowls

Tips

Tip 1

Don't worry about small lumps that form during cooking - they add to the homemade texture and are actually quite tasty

Tip 2

Pour leftover pudding into ice cube trays or popsicle molds for a frozen treat later

Tip 3

Serve warm for the best creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate covered up to 3 days

Make Ahead

Can be made 1 day ahead and served chilled

Serve With

Serve warm or chilled in individual bowls

Common Mistakes

Watch

Whisk dry ingredients gradually to avoid lumps forming

Watch

Stir constantly during simmering to prevent scorching on bottom

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

milk→
plant milk1:1vegandairy-free

Use unsweetened for best results

Full guide →
butter→
vegan butter1:1vegandairy-freedairy-free

Maintains richness

Full guide →

General Alternatives

cocoa→
chocolate chips1/4 cup chips for 3 tbsp cocoaindulgent

Melt with milk for richer flavor

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use dark cocoa powder instead?

Yes, dark cocoa will give a more intense chocolate flavor. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste.

How long does this pudding keep?

Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may thicken slightly when cold.

Can I freeze the pudding?

Yes, pour into popsicle molds or ice cube trays for frozen treats. Thaw slightly before serving if using as pudding.