1-First Step: Mise en Place Gather all ingredients and tools: medium saucepan, whisk, measuring cups, and bowls. Chop 2 ounces bittersweet chocolate. Measure 2 cups whole milk, ½ cup sugar, ¼ cup cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and 1 tablespoon butter. Prep ice bath if rushing chill time. This setup keeps your easy chocolate pudding stress-free, especially for beginners or kids helping in the kitchen.

2-Second Step: Whisk Dry Ingredients In the saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to break lumps, about 1 minute. This dry mix prevents clumping when milk hits, key for chocolate pudding from scratch. For vegan adaptations, use plant milk here too.

3-Third Step: Add Milk Gradually Pour in milk slowly while whisking over medium heat. Stir constantly as it warms, 3-4 minutes, until steaming. Aim for medium-low to avoid scorching. This builds the base for stovetop chocolate pudding. Low-calorie tip: skim milk works fine but stir more.

4-Fourth Step: Bring to Boil Increase heat slightly; boil gently 5-7 minutes, whisking nonstop. Mixture thickens dramatically. Test by coating spoon back, wipe finger: clean line means ready. Patience here ensures no lumps in your no bake chocolate pudding.

5-Fifth Step: Melt Chocolate Reduce heat to low. Add chopped chocolate; stir 1-2 minutes until fully melted and smooth. Glossy now! For richer flavor, use 70% dark. Gluten-free? Double-check chocolate.

6-Sixth Step: Off-Heat Additions Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and butter until butter melts completely. Taste; adjust sugar if needed. Butter adds silkiness vital for creamy chocolate pudding recipe.

7-Seventh Step: Strain and Pour Optional: strain through fine sieve for ultra-smooth. Divide into 4 bowls or ramekins. Press plastic wrap directly on surface to block skin. Chill 2-4 hours. Vegan note: same process with substitutes.

8-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Top with whipped cream, berries, or nuts. Pairs great in parfaits with [chocolate chip pudding cookies](https://cookingfee.com/chocolate-chip-pudding-cookies/). Warm gently if preferred. Serves 4; scale up for parties.