YaYa’s Chocolate Pudding
This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding is made from Shirley’s handwritten recipe and brings the simple comfort of homemade desserts back to life. With rich cocoa, creamy milk, and just a touch of vanilla, it’s smooth, velvety, and perfectly sweet. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a nostalgic treat that tastes like childhood memories shared around Mama’s kitchen table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups hot milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2½ tablespoons cornstarch
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
- 3 tablespoons cocoa
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cocoa.
- Gradually add the hot milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Cook the mixture over direct heat, stirring until it begins to thicken.
- Transfer to the bottom of a double boiler and cook for about 30 minutes, stirring often.
- Remove from heat, cool slightly, and stir in the vanilla.
- Pour into dessert dishes and chill before serving.
Yaya’s Tips for Success
This pudding is at its best when it’s silky smooth and rich in flavor.
- Stir constantly while cooking to prevent lumps.
- Use whole milk for a creamier texture.
- If you want extra shine and flavor, add a small pat of butter before chilling.
- Chill in glass dishes for a classic old-fashioned look like Mama Shirley used to do.
Yaya’s Customization Ideas
You can easily turn this pudding into something extra special.
- Try folding in a spoonful of whipped cream for a lighter mousse texture
- Or sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers or pecans on top for crunch.
For another classic chocolate treat, visit my Chocolate Pie recipe; it uses a similar homemade chocolate filling and will remind you of Grandma’s Sunday desserts.
Yaya’s Original Recipe Card
