Decadent Chocolate Pudding Recipe

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

• 1 quart of milk (reserve 1 gill, approximately 1/2 cup)
• 3 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 2 ounces of high-quality chocolate (e.g., Walter Baker & Co.'s Premium No. 1 Chocolate)
• 4 tablespoons of granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons of boiling water
• Whipped cream (for serving)
• Vanilla extract (optional, for flavoring whipped cream)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Milk and Cornstarch Mixture:

   • Reserve 1 gill (approximately 1/2 cup) of milk from the quart.
   • Heat the remaining milk in a double boiler over medium heat.
   • Mix the reserved cold milk with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth.

2. Combine Eggs, Sugar, and Salt:

   • In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
   • Add the cornstarch mixture to the egg mixture, stirring well.

3. Incorporate into Boiling Milk:

   • Gradually add the egg and cornstarch mixture to the boiling milk, stirring continuously.
   • Continue to stir for about 1 minute until the mixture thickens.

4. Prepare the Chocolate:

   • Finely shave 2 ounces of high-quality chocolate.
   • In a small pan, combine the shaved chocolate with 4 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of boiling water.
   • Stir over high heat until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

5. Combine Chocolate with Pudding:

   • Add the chocolate mixture to the hot pudding, stirring well to combine.
   • Cook the pudding for an additional 10 minutes, starting from the time the eggs and cornstarch were added.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Pour the hot pudding into small cups rinsed with cold water.
   • Allow the pudding to cool completely.
   • At serving time, turn the pudding out onto a flat dish, forming a circle.
   • Fill the center with whipped cream flavored with sugar and vanilla extract, if desired.

Optional Variation

• If you prefer to omit the eggs, simply increase the cornstarch to 4 tablespoons.

Nutritional Information and Fun Facts

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Interesting Facts

• Chocolate Consumption: The average American consumes approximately 9.5 pounds of chocolate per year (source: Statista).
• Cornstarch Uses: Cornstarch is not only a thickening agent in cooking but also used in various industrial applications, including the production of bioplastics (source: Corn Refiners Association).
• Double Boiler Benefits: Using a double boiler helps prevent scorching and ensures even heating, making it ideal for delicate recipes like chocolate pudding (source: Serious Eats).

Conclusion

This decadent chocolate pudding recipe is a timeless classic that combines simplicity with rich flavors. Whether served in individual cups or as a centerpiece with whipped cream, it’s a dessert that promises to delight. Enjoy the process of making this treat and savor every spoonful of its creamy, chocolatey goodness.