Chocolate Pudding

I'm not a big ice cream person -- too much dental work in contact with cold is my theory -- but I LOVE pudding, mousse, anything sweet and creamy. And S. will eat anything on the planet if it's got a custard component. So, some of our best go-to desserts are variations on that theme: brownie pudding, eclairs, homemade pudding pops; we've made all of those within the past month or so. Tapioca is another favorite that whips up pretty quickly and is easy enough for the kids to make on their own.

So, here's our favorite extra-rich chocolate pudding recipe, so much better than something out of a box.

½ c. sugar

½ c. cocoa powder

¼ c. cornstarch

¼ tsp. salt

4 c. milk

2 eggs

1 c. chocolate chips

Whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch and salt in heavy saucepan.  Gradually whisk in the milk.  Bring to a boil, whisking constantly, and boil till plenty thick, 5 minutes or so.  Remove from heat.  Immediately beat the egg lightly in another bowl, then very gradually add the hot chocolate mixture to the egg, whisking constantly.  Stir in chocolate chips and whisk till smooth.  Refrigerate, covered, at least 2 hours.