### Chocolate Pudding Shots: A Sweet Delight in Miniature
Looking to impress your guests or add a unique twist to your dessert menu? Try making chocolate pudding shots! These delightful mini-desserts are perfect for sharing and can be easily customized with various toppings. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious and visually appealing version of this treat.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and crushed cookies (optional toppings)
#### Equipment Needed:
- Small mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ice cube trays or small shot glasses
### Step-by-Step Guide:
#### Preparation:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes if you plan to use ice cube trays.
2. **Chop Chocolate**: Finely chop 2 ounces of semisweet chocolate.
#### Making the Pudding:
3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch and salt until well combined.
4. **Combine Milk and Sugar**:
- In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of milk with sugar over medium heat until it starts to simmer gently but not boil.
#### Cooking the Pudding:
5. **Add Cornstarch Mixture**:
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the dry cornstarch mixture while whisking continuously.
6. **Cook and Stir**:
- Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens like pudding.
#### Adding Chocolate and Flavor:
7. **Fold in Chocolate**:
- Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate along with vanilla extract. Mix well until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated.
8. **Cool Mixture**:
- Allow the pudding to cool slightly before portioning it out into ice cube trays or small shot glasses.
#### Freezing (Optional):
9. **Freeze for Texture**:
- If using ice cube trays, pour the pudding into each compartment and freeze until firm, about 2 hours.
10. **Serve Immediately**:
- Once frozen solid, remove from tray and serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream and crushed cookies if desired.
### Tips and Variations:
- **Flavor Additions**: Experiment by adding a touch of espresso powder or flavored liqueurs like Kahlúa to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- **Presentation Ideas**: Garnish each pudding shot with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a mini cookie, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair.
By following these steps, you can create an impressive and delightful chocolate pudding shots that will surely be the talk of the party. Enjoy your delicious creations!