The Best Chocolate Pudding

* Exported from MasterCook *

The Best Chocolate Pudding

Recipe By : Dessert Show
Serving Size : 1 Preparation Time :0:00
Categories : Desserts

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
2 1/4 cups milk or light cream
1/2 cup sugar
6 large mint sprigs
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate -- finely chopped
1 pinch salt
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa -- (Dutch process)
2 large eggs -- beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lightly whipped unsweetened cream
Shaved bittersweet chocolate

In a deep saucepan place 2 cups of milk, 1/4 up of sugar and the mint sprigs
and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and allow it to sit for 5-10
minutes. Remove mint and discard. Return pan to moderate heat and add the
bittersweet chocolate. Whisk frequently until chocolate melts into milk,
then remove from heat.

In a separate bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, salt, cornstarch,
cinnamon and cocoa together. Add the remaining 1/4 cup milk and whisk until
smooth. Slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture and return to the saucepan over
moderate heat. Stir sides and bottom constantly with a spatula until mixture
just begins to simmer. Slowly whisk into bowl with eggs, being careful not
to scramble them. Return to pan and cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes,
stirring constantly, to cook egg through and thicken mixture. Remove from
heat and stir in vanilla.

Pour pudding into dessert glasses or ramekins, cover with plastic or wax
paper directly on pudding to keep skin from forming and refrigerate for up
to 3 days. To serve, carefully remove plastic and garnish with lightly
whipped cream, chocolate shavings and mint sprigs if desired.



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NOTES : Yield: 4 to 6 serving