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Creamy Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Pudding Cups

chocolate-covered strawberry pudding cups - featured image

These creamy chocolate-covered strawberry pudding cups feature layers of silky homemade chocolate pudding, juicy macerated strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream. They’re an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for parties, holidays, or a sweet treat any day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for strawberries)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
  • Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
  • Extra strawberries, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine diced strawberries, 1 tbsp sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and let sit for at least 15 minutes to macerate.
  2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1/3 cup sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream until smooth and no lumps remain.
  4. Place the pan over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and just begins to bubble, about 7-10 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat. Add chopped chocolate and vanilla extract. Whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the pudding is glossy.
  6. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
  7. Transfer the pudding to a bowl and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface. Let cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  8. Stir the macerated strawberries. Spoon a generous layer of berries (plus juices) into the bottom of each serving cup.
  9. Spoon or pipe the cooled chocolate pudding over the strawberries, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
  10. Top each pudding cup with whipped cream. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or mini chips, and garnish with extra sliced strawberries.
  11. Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve cold.

Notes

For dairy-free, use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate. For gluten-free, ensure your chocolate and cocoa powder are certified gluten-free. You can make the pudding and strawberries a day ahead and assemble before serving. If the pudding is lumpy, whisk vigorously or strain through a sieve. For a lighter texture, fold in a spoonful of whipped cream into the cooled pudding before layering.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate pudding, strawberry dessert, pudding cups, easy dessert, party dessert, chocolate strawberry, no bake, gluten free, make ahead, summer dessert