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Silky Chocolate Pudding with Fresh Whipped Cream inspired by Dini's Sea Grill
Inspired by Dini's Sea Grill

Silky Chocolate Pudding with Fresh Whipped Cream

Dessert Vegetarian
This dessert features a rich chocolate pudding with a silky-smooth texture. The chocolate custard base is cooked slowly to develop depth of flavor, then chilled until set. Topped with a cloud of freshly whipped cream, this classic dessert balances sweet and bitter notes with a luxurious mouthfeel.
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Inactive Time 180 mins
Total Time 215 mins
Servings 6

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Whole milk
  • 1 cup Heavy cream (Divided (1/2 cup for pudding, 1/2 cup for whipping))
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder (Sifted)
  • 4 oz Semisweet chocolate (Finely chopped)
  • 4 large Egg yolks
  • 3 tbsp Cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 2 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter (Cut into small pieces)
  • 2 tbsp Powdered sugar (For whipped cream)
  • 2 tbsp Chocolate shavings (For garnish)

Tools You'll Need

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Fine-mesh sieve
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula
  • Stand mixer or hand mixer with whisk attachment
  • Individual serving dishes

Chef's Tip

For the smoothest pudding texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve after cooking. This removes any small lumps that might have formed during the thickening process.

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.
  2. Gradually whisk in milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream until smooth, making sure no lumps remain.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth.
  4. Place saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until mixture begins to thicken and bubble, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Remove 1/2 cup of the hot mixture and slowly whisk it into the egg yolks to temper them.
  6. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Return to heat.
  7. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until pudding thickens and begins to boil, about 2-3 minutes more.
  8. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla. Whisk until chocolate and butter are completely melted and incorporated.
  9. Strain pudding through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any lumps.
  10. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
  11. Refrigerate until completely chilled and set, at least 3 hours or overnight.
  12. When ready to serve, whip the remaining 1/2 cup heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

Plating

Spoon the chilled chocolate pudding into individual serving dishes. Top with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings. For an elegant presentation, serve in glass cups or coupes to showcase the layers.

Storage & Reheating

Store chocolate pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wait to add the whipped cream until just before serving. The texture is best within the first 24 hours.

About This Recipe

A timeless chocolate dessert featuring rich, silky pudding topped with fresh whipped cream, inspired by Dini's Sea Grill. The careful cooking process creates a depth of chocolate flavor and perfect texture. This homemade version elevates the classic American comfort dessert with premium ingredients while maintaining its nostalgic appeal.

How did it turn out?

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