Heavenly Chocolate Strawberry Pudding

Name: Heavenly Chocolate Strawberry Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar

Highlighted under: Artisan Bakery Recipes

I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to this Heavenly Chocolate Strawberry Pudding! Combining rich chocolate with fresh strawberries creates an indulgent dessert that’s both decadent and refreshing. I love how the layers of smooth chocolate pudding intertwine with luscious strawberry pieces, making each bite a delightful experience. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or satisfying my own sweet tooth, and it requires minimal effort for such a luxurious treat—just the way I like it!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:14:34.513Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was surprised by how easy it was to create such a stunning dessert in just under two hours. The key is to prepare the chocolate pudding and let it chill until it thickens, which intensifies the flavor immensely. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate for that rich depth that pairs beautifully with strawberries.

One evening, I decided to serve this pudding for a dinner party without any expectations, but it turned out to be the star of the night. Guests were raving about the texture and taste, and I couldn’t help but feel proud. It really is a perfect balance of sweetness and cocoa goodness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent layers of chocolate and fresh strawberries
Silky smooth texture that captivates every palate
Quick to prepare and make ahead for any occasion

      

The Role of Ingredients

In this Heavenly Chocolate Strawberry Pudding, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating its signature flavor and texture. The combination of cocoa powder and dark chocolate delivers a rich, intense chocolate flavor that balances beautifully with the sweet, tart strawberries. Using unsweetened cocoa powder ensures that your pudding maintains a deep, rich chocolate essence without becoming overly sweet when paired with the natural sugars released by the strawberries.

Cornstarch is essential for achieving the thick, creamy consistency of the pudding. It acts as a thickening agent, and when cooked, it gelatinizes, giving the pudding its luxurious texture. Be sure to whisk the cornstarch well with the milk to avoid lumps; if lumps do occur, simply strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before cooking to achieve that silky smooth result.

Layering for Visual Appeal

Layering the pudding and strawberries not only enhances the presentation but also allows for a delightful mix of flavors in every bite. When layering, start with a generous spoonful of chocolate pudding and then carefully place the strawberries on top. This way, as you dig in, the berries blend into the chocolate, creating a lovely balance of flavors and textures. Consider using clear glass cups to showcase the beautiful layers of chocolate and strawberry.

If you want to impress your guests further, feel free to top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This simple addition not only adds an extra layer of creaminess but also enhances the dessert's visual appeal with contrasting colors, making the experience even more indulgent.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create this delightful pudding:

Pudding Ingredients

2 cups milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberry Layer

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar

Once you have your ingredients, you're ready to start crafting this dessert!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Heavenly Chocolate Strawberry Pudding:

Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk together until smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to boil. Remove from heat, then stir in the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla extract until fully melted and smooth.

Chill the Pudding

Pour the chocolate pudding into a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for the pudding to set.

Prepare Strawberries

While the pudding cools, toss the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar in a separate bowl. Let them sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the juices to release.

Assemble the Pudding

Once the chocolate pudding has set, layer it in serving dishes: start with a layer of chocolate pudding, followed by a layer of the sugared strawberries, and repeat until the dishes are filled.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with additional strawberries or whipped cream, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy your Heavenly Chocolate Strawberry Pudding!

Enjoy the heavenly experience of this chocolate treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, top your pudding with freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder before serving. Always use high-quality chocolate for the richest flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

One of the best aspects of this pudding is its ability to be made ahead of time. After preparing the chocolate pudding, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving. Just be sure to cover the surface with plastic wrap to avoid a skin forming. The strawberries can also be prepared in advance—simply toss them with sugar and let them macerate the day before, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your dessert.

If you have leftovers, enjoy them within 2 days for optimal freshness. Store the pudding in an airtight container, and keep the strawberries separate to preserve their texture. This will allow you to enjoy this delightful dessert throughout the week without compromising on quality.

Variations and Flavor Additions

Feel free to customize this Heavenly Chocolate Strawberry Pudding to suit your taste. For a tropical twist, consider adding sliced bananas between the layers or incorporating a layer of coconut whipped cream for a delightful contrast. You could also infuse the chocolate pudding with a dash of espresso powder to enhance the cocoa flavor if you're a coffee enthusiast.

For those who enjoy a little crunch, consider adding a layer of crushed cookies or graham crackers between the pudding and strawberries. This not only adds texture but also a new flavor layer that complements the creaminess of the chocolate and the sweetness of the strawberries. Experimenting with flavors can lead to exciting new versions of this dessert that can suit various palates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pudding keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so it’s perfect for prepping in advance.

→ What type of chocolate should I use?

For the best flavor, use a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content.

→ Can I substitute the milk?

Yes, feel free to use almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice for a dairy-free version.

→ How can I customize this pudding?

You can add different fruits, such as raspberries or bananas, or mix in some nuts for added crunch!