10/21/2026
Creamy No-Bake Milk Pudding with Cocoa Powder
This creamy no-bake milk pudding is a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth dessert made with simple pantry ingredients. With its silky vanilla custard base and delicate dusting of cocoa powder, it's an easy, budget-friendly treat that's perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or whenever you're craving something sweet.
Servings: 6
Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 15 mins
Chill: 3 hours
Ingredients
For the creamy milk pudding:
- 4 cups whole milk (960 ml)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100 g)
- ½ cup cornstarch (60 g)
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream (120 ml)
- 2 egg yolks (optional, for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the cocoa topping:
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the milk mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the cold milk until the cornstarch dissolves completely and no lumps remain.
2. Add the egg yolks
If using egg yolks, whisk them in a separate bowl with a few tablespoons of the milk mixture. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and whisk until smooth.
3. Cook until thickened
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir continuously for 8–12 minutes until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy custard. Once it begins bubbling, cook for another 1–2 minutes while stirring.
4. Add cream and vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated and the pudding looks glossy and silky.
5. Transfer to serving dishes
Pour the warm pudding into a glass baking dish or individual dessert bowls. Smooth the surface using a spatula.
6. Chill until set
Allow the pudding to cool slightly at room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until completely chilled and firm enough to scoop.
7. Dust with cocoa powder
Just before serving, sift a generous, even layer of unsweetened cocoa powder over the pudding. Add a little powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter topping.
8. Serve and enjoy
Scoop into individual bowls or serve directly from the dessert cups. Enjoy chilled for the best creamy texture.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Milk Pudding
- Use whole milk for a richer, creamier texture.
- Stir constantly while cooking to prevent lumps and scorching.
- For an extra-smooth finish, strain the cooked pudding before pouring it into dishes.
- Dust cocoa powder just before serving to keep the topping dry and attractive.
- Add a little instant coffee to the custard for a delicious coffee-flavored variation.
Storage Instructions
Keep the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, serve chilled and avoid freezing, as thawing can make the custard watery.
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
Nutrient Amount
Calories 340 kcal
Protein 7 g
Carbohydrates 43 g
Fat 16 g
Fiber 1 g
Approximate nutrition per serving, based on six portions with egg yolks. Values depend on the ingredients used.Final Thoughts
This creamy no-bake milk pudding proves that a beautiful homemade dessert doesn't have to be complicated. With its velvety texture, delicate vanilla flavor, and rich cocoa topping, every spoonful is wonderfully smooth and satisfying. It's an easy make-ahead dessert that everyone at the table can enjoy.
