Chocolate Pudding

Chocolate Pudding
(Original Recipe from Pioneer Woman)

Ingredients

2 egg yolks
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 cups whole milk, divided
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cocoa
1/4 tsp salt
2 tsp vanilla

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks for about 60 seconds until light yellow and increased in volume, then whisk in the cornstarch and about 1/4 cup of the milk. Once smooth and incorporated, set aside.

2. Place the sugar, cocoa, salt, and remaining milk in a saucepan, and bring to a scald over medium-high heat, which is when the liquid is about 180-190ºF before it boils. Remove the pan from the heat and, while whisking constantly, dribble the hot cocoa into the egg cornstarch mixture very gradually to temper.

3. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium high heat, whisking constantly, until the pudding comes to a full boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue whisking for a couple minutes until the pudding is thickened.

4. Remove the pudding from the heat and stir in the vanilla. Pour the pudding into a bowl and press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding so a skin doesn't form. Refrigerate for an hour or two until chilled.