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If you’re looking for a delicious vegan dessert option that is rich and creamy, you must try this decadent Vegan Chocolate Pudding recipe. Whether it’s a family get-together, an everyday dessert, or a special occasion, this dessert will surely impress.
As I remember about my childhood in Argentina, this Vegan Chocolate Pudding recipe holds a special place in my heart, alongside the beloved Vanilla Pudding. These recipes are more than just desserts; they are cherished memories from my past that I love to share with you. So, I adapted that first recipe to make it more chocolaty and with the flavor I recall.
The recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you already have in your pantry. With its smooth and velvety texture, this pudding is a delightful treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
This recipe is free of dairy, eggs, gluten, and refined sugar; skip the optional ingredient and use nut-free plant-based milk to adapt it to be nut-free easily.
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS
- Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze to whip up with just a few ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Healthier Choice: This pudding is a healthier alternative to traditional desserts using plant-based milk and natural sweeteners like maple syrup.
- Flexibility: Whether you’re a vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this pudding fits beautifully into various dietary preferences.
HOW TO PREPARE THIS VEGAN CHOCOLATE PUDDING
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
This recipe is super easy to prepare! The ingredients are easily available at every grocery store, or maybe you already have them in your pantry.
To make this recipe, whisk together plant-based milk, cocoa powder, cornstarch, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt.
Then, simmer until thickened, and stir in vanilla extract and optional peanut butter to create a lusciously creamy vegan chocolate pudding that is delightfully simple yet irresistibly decadent!
The basic recipe is my kids’ favorite, but I prefer it with peanut butter.
Now, let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, possible substitutions, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.
USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
Here’s a list of essential kitchen tools needed to prepare the recipe:
- Whisk or wooden spoons (to avoid lumps and achieve that silky smooth texture).
- Individual serving dishes or ramekins.
Super simple. Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this delicious Vegan Chocolate Pudding:
- Unsweetened Plant-Based Milk: The base of our pudding, providing creaminess without dairy. Any plant-based milk will work fine; however, canned coconut, cashew, or almond milk always adds more creaminess and thickness to the preparation.
- Unsweetened Cacao Powder: For that rich, deep chocolate flavor.
- Cornstarch: This is our thickening agent, making the pudding lusciously thick. You can also use Arrowroot. I’m using Organic Cornstarch.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that adds a subtle, earthy sweetness.
- Sea Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a layer of warm, aromatic flavor.
- Peanut Butter (Optional): For added richness and nutty depth. I’m using organic creamy, no-salt-added peanut butter.
DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES
To prepare this delicious and easy Vegan Chocolate Pudding, follow these steps:
Preparation: Combine all ingredients (except vanilla extract and almond butter) in a saucepan. Whisk until smooth to avoid lumps.
Cooking: Heat the mixture, bringing it to a boil while stirring continuously.
Thickening: Reduce heat and simmer, whisking for a minute until it thickens.
Final Touches: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and almond butter, and pour into dishes.
Chill & Set: Let cool, cover to avoid skin formation, and refrigerate to set.
Serve: Enjoy your vegan chocolate pudding with your favorite toppings.
What you’ll love about this recipe? Well, you will find that it is:
- Simple and easy!
- Rich and Creamy.
- Chocolaty and decadent.
- Customizable and allergy-friendly.
- Delicious!
Let’s prepare this Vegan Chocolate Pudding!
WATCH THE STEP-BY-STEP VIDEO!
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PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD
VEGAN CHOCOLATE PUDDING (Easy Recipe and Gluten-Free)
Ingredients
Basic Recipe
- 2 cups organic plant-based milk* (500 ml)
- 3 ½ Tbsp unsweetened cacao powder
- 3 ½ Tbsp cornstarch (I’m using organic non-GMO, GF cornstarch. You can use arrowroot instead)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (78 ml)
- 1 pinch Sea Salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Richer texture
- 2 ½ tbsp organic creamy no salt added peanut butter (optional)**
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients but vanilla extract and peanut butter (if using) in a medium-sized saucepan. Whisk until the cocoa powder and the cornstarch dissolve entirely. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the preparation.
- Then, turn on the heat and bring the preparation to a boil over medium heat while continuously stirring.
- When the mixture in the saucepan is boiling, lower the heat to a minimum. Continue to cook over low heat, constantly whisking for 1 minute until thickening.
- Remove from the heat, add the vanilla extract and the peanut butter if using, and combine. Pour into individual serving dishes/ramekins, let them cool, and cover with plastic wrap to avoid skin from forming, and refrigerate a couple of hours until set.
- Serve topped with shaved chocolate, shredded coconut, fresh fruits, or cashew cream! Enjoy!
Notes
- *Any plant-based milk will work fine; however, canned coconut, cashew, or almond milk always adds more creaminess and thickness to the preparation.
- ** I tried almond butter, and it also works. I didn’t try it with other butter, but I think you can replace it by getting the same texture with a slight flavor change.
- You can store this Vegan Chocolate Pudding in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it is adequately covered, either in an airtight container or with a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding to prevent skin from forming.
- Add more maple syrup to your desired level of sweetness. Begin by increasing it in small increments, such as a tablespoon at a time, to avoid overly sweetening.
- Time doesn’t include chill time.
- The amount of servings depends on the size of the serving bowls of ramekins.
WAYS TO ENJOY THIS VEGAN CHOCOLATE PUDDING
Now that you have your Vegan Chocolate Pudding ready, look for some of these serving suggestions:
- For Chocolate Lovers: Add shaved chocolate on top.
- Tropical Twist: Sprinkle with shredded coconut.
- Fruit Fanatics: Top with fresh fruits like berries.
- Creamy Dream: A dollop of cashew cream for extra luxury.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped roasted almonds or hazelnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with vegan caramel sauce and add coarse sea salt for a sweet and salty delight.
And if you want to try more sweet treats, check out these recipes:
DID YOU MAKE THIS VEGAN CHOCOLATE PUDDING?
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