Classic Chocolate Pudding with Whipped Cream is the kind of dessert that feels nostalgic, comforting, and indulgent all at once. With its silky-smooth texture, rich chocolate flavor, and cool, cloud-like topping of freshly whipped cream, this pudding captures the essence of timeless homemade desserts. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and depth, offering a dessert experience that is satisfying without being overly heavy.

This recipe brings the true essence of old-fashioned chocolate pudding back to your kitchen. Made from real cocoa, milk, sugar, and a touch of butter, it has the pure chocolate flavor that store-bought mixes simply can’t match. Whether served warm and cozy or chilled and refreshing, this classic dessert appeals to all ages and always feels like a special treat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is simple yet incredibly rewarding. The process is soothing—slowly whisking the pudding as it thickens—and the result is pure comfort. Homemade pudding has a richness and creaminess that makes it far superior to boxed versions, and the whipped cream topping adds an elegant, airy contrast.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. It fits every occasion: a casual family dessert, a treat for kids, or a beautiful addition to a dinner party. Chocolate lovers always appreciate the deep cocoa flavor, and because the ingredients are straightforward pantry staples, you can whip it up anytime. It’s the kind of dessert you come back to again and again.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s incredibly easy yet tastes like an indulgent gourmet dessert. It doesn’t require any special equipment beyond a saucepan and whisk, making it very accessible. The texture is velvet-smooth, the flavor is deeply chocolatey, and it pairs perfectly with fresh whipped cream. For anyone who wants a dependable, crowd-pleasing dessert that can be prepared ahead of time, this recipe is perfect.

Whether you want something nostalgic or something sophisticated, this chocolate pudding delivers. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never want store-bought pudding again.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 1–2 hours (optional)
Total Time: 25 minutes active, up to 2 hours overall

Servings and Nutrition

Servings: 4–6
Approximate Calories: 250 calories per serving (including whipped cream)
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Pudding

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Directions

1. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Slowly whisk in the milk until fully combined and smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and bubbling.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla.
5. Pour into serving dishes and let cool (either warm or chilled).
6. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
7. Serve pudding topped with fresh whipped cream.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan until no lumps remain.

Step 2: Add Milk and Stir

Gradually whisk in the milk, starting with a small amount to create a smooth paste, then adding the rest.

Step 3: Thicken the Pudding

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly. As the mixture heats, it will begin to thicken. Continue stirring until it reaches a pudding-like consistency and starts to bubble.

Step 4: Add Chocolate and Finish

Remove from heat. Add chopped semisweet chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Portion the Pudding

Pour into bowls, glasses, or ramekins. For extra-smooth pudding, cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.

Step 6: Chill or Serve Warm

You may chill for 1–2 hours for cold pudding or serve warm for a cozy dessert.

Step 7: Make the Whipped Cream

Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla with a whisk or mixer until soft peaks form. Dollop onto pudding before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert or warm for extra comfort.
• Garnish with chocolate curls, cocoa powder dusting, or fresh berries.
• Layer pudding and whipped cream in parfait glasses for an elegant presentation.
• Add crushed cookies or biscuit crumbs for texture.

Recipe Tips

• Whisk constantly when cooking the pudding to avoid lumps.
• To intensify chocolate flavor, add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder.
• Whole milk works best, but you can use 2% milk if needed.
• Do not overheat after adding chocolate; it may seize.
• Chill with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent skin formation.

Variations

Dark Chocolate Pudding

Use dark chocolate instead of semisweet and increase sugar slightly to balance the bitterness.

Mocha Pudding

Add 1 teaspoon espresso powder to the milk for a coffee-chocolate twist.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Pudding

Stir in 2 tablespoons peanut butter after removing from heat.

Vegan Version

Use almond or oat milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free chocolate. Top with coconut whipped cream.

Mint Chocolate Pudding

Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract instead of vanilla.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

Store pudding in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Whipped cream is best stored separately and lasts 2 days.

Freezer

Freezing is not recommended as pudding can become grainy.
However, it can be frozen for up to 1 month if needed, noting texture may change.

Make-Ahead

Prepare pudding up to 2 days ahead and add whipped cream just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk for whipped cream
• Serving dishes or ramekins

FAQ

Why is my pudding lumpy?

It may not have been whisked enough at the beginning or during thickening. You can strain the pudding through a sieve before cooling.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?

Yes, chocolate chips work well, though chopped chocolate melts more smoothly.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, reduce sugar by 1–2 tablespoons, but it may slightly impact texture and sweetness.

Can I use cornstarch substitutes?

Arrowroot powder can replace cornstarch, but use slightly less (2 tablespoons instead of 3).

Why didn’t my pudding thicken?

The mixture may not have reached a full simmer, or the cornstarch amount was incorrect.

Conclusion

Classic Chocolate Pudding with Whipped Cream is a timeless dessert that brings warmth, nostalgia, and pure indulgence to any table. With its rich chocolate flavor and velvety smooth texture, it’s the perfect treat for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. Easy to make, endlessly versatile, and universally loved, this homemade chocolate pudding is a recipe worth keeping forever. Serve it warm or cold, dress it up or keep it simple—every spoonful is pure comfort. Enjoy this classic dessert made right in your own kitchen.