Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, gently heat the whole milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth.
  4. Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot milk into the egg yolks while whisking constantly.
  5. Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk, stirring well.
  6. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and gently bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract, stirring until melted and smooth.
  8. Pour the pudding through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl for extra smoothness.
  9. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  10. Spoon into serving dishes and enjoy!