5 Ingredient Homemade Chocolate Pudding

Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutes

• Butter: Adds richness and provides a fat to bind with the thickening agent. Coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative can be used in the same amount for a vegan option.
• Cornstarch: Acts as a thickener, giving the pudding its classic, firm texture. Arrowroot powder or potato starch can be used in equal amounts for a corn-free alternative.
• Heavy Cream: Contributes to the creamy and smooth texture of the pudding. We much prefer the heavy whipping cream for both taste and texture, but it is possible to use whole milk, or a combination of coconut cream and almond milk can be used for a dairy-free version. This substitution may alter the texture slightly. If you choose to use milk, increase the cornstarch to two full tablespoons.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pudding and balances the bitterness of the chocolate. To reduce refined sugar, use an equal amount of coconut sugar, or slightly less (about 3 tablespoons) of honey or agave nectar.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The primary source of chocolate flavor in the pudding. Dark chocolate chips for a less sweet, more intense chocolate flavor, or dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.