Creamy Vanilla Pudding with Milk Chocolate and Hazelnut Topping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vanilla Pudding:

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. It’s important to keep stirring to avoid any lumps and to ensure the mixture heats evenly.

Once the milk mixture is hot, take about 1/2 cup of the warm mixture and slowly pour it into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. This helps temper the eggs and prevents them from curdling.

Now, gradually pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk mixture. Continue whisking constantly for another 2-3 minutes until the pudding thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

2. Finish the Pudding:

Once the pudding has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth. The butter adds a lovely richness and silkiness to the pudding.

3. Chill the Pudding:

Pour the pudding into serving dishes, such as small bowls, cups, or ramekins. Cover each one with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the pudding is fully set.

4. Prepare the Milk Chocolate and Hazelnut Topping:

While the pudding is chilling, prepare the topping. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and completely melted.

Once the chocolate is melted, let it cool slightly before drizzling it over the set pudding. Sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts on top of the chocolate while it’s still slightly warm, so they stick to the chocolate. For a bit of extra flavor, add a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance the sweetness and add some contrast.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the pudding has set and the chocolate hazelnut topping is added, serve immediately or refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow everything to firm up.

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so it’s perfect for a hot day or when you’re craving something cool and indulgent.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pudding:

• Use Whole Milk for Richness: For the creamiest and most flavorful pudding, whole milk is your best option. However, you can substitute with almond milk or another dairy-free option if needed.
• Homemade or Store-Bought Hazelnuts: Roasting hazelnuts yourself gives them a fresh, nutty flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought roasted hazelnuts.
• Customize the Topping: Feel free to switch up the chocolate! Dark chocolate or even white chocolate would make great alternatives. You can also add different nuts like almonds or pistachios.
• Make Ahead: The pudding can be prepared a day in advance. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together even more.

Why This Pudding is a Must-Try:

This Creamy Vanilla Pudding with Milk Chocolate and Hazelnut Topping is a dessert that’s sure to impress. It offers a perfect balance of creamy, smooth vanilla pudding with the indulgent richness of milk chocolate and the crunch of hazelnuts. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dessert both satisfying and elegant. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or treating yourself to something sweet, this pudding is sure to be a hit.

Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also a breeze to make, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your creation. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to enjoy a comforting, decadent treat that will leave everyone coming back for more.