There’s nothing quite like a bowl of silky, creamy vanilla pudding to make you feel like a kid again. But this version? It’s got an irresistible twist. Topped with smooth milk chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts, it’s a dreamy combination of flavors and textures that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. Every spoonful is a little taste of heaven—sweet, velvety pudding paired with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts and the rich sweetness of chocolate. Trust me, this dessert is about to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Vanilla Pudding with Milk Chocolate & Hazelnut Topping

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for weeknight desserts or fancy dinner parties.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and a handful of extra toppings.
Quick and Easy: Comes together in no time with minimal effort.
Customizable: Change up the toppings with different nuts or even fruit.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s creamy, chocolatey, and crunchy all in one—everyone will love it!

Ingredients in Creamy Vanilla Pudding with Milk Chocolate & Hazelnut Topping

Here’s what makes this dessert so special:
Milk: The base of the pudding, giving it richness and creaminess.
Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Cornstarch: Thickens the pudding to the perfect consistency.
Egg Yolks: Add depth and a velvety texture.
Vanilla Extract: Brings that warm, classic vanilla flavor.
Butter: Adds a touch of richness and shine to the pudding.
Milk Chocolate: For the decadent topping.
Hazelnuts: Toasted and chopped for the perfect crunchy contrast.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Make the Pudding Base: In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and milk. Heat over medium until it begins to thicken.
Temper the Eggs: Slowly whisk some of the hot mixture into the egg yolks, then return everything to the saucepan.
Add Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth and creamy.
Chill: Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface and chill until set.
Prepare the Topping: Melt the milk chocolate and stir in the toasted hazelnuts.
Assemble: Spoon the chocolate-hazelnut topping over the chilled pudding.
Serve and Enjoy: Grab a spoon and dive in—the contrast of creamy pudding and crunchy topping is pure bliss!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 280

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Vanilla Pudding with Milk Chocolate & Hazelnut Topping

This dessert can be served in so many ways:
Serve in elegant glass cups for a fancy dinner presentation.
Top with extra toasted hazelnuts for more crunch.
Add a dollop of whipped cream for even more indulgence.
Pair with espresso or coffee for a delightful after-dinner treat.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Don’t overcook the pudding or it may turn grainy.
Use high-quality milk chocolate for the best flavor.
Toast the hazelnuts beforehand to bring out their nutty aroma.
Cover the pudding with plastic wrap directly on the surface to avoid a skin forming.
You can make the pudding a day ahead—it actually tastes even better chilled overnight.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate works beautifully if you prefer a richer flavor.
2. Can I make this pudding dairy-free?
Absolutely, use almond or coconut milk and dairy-free butter and chocolate.
3. Do I have to use hazelnuts?
No, you can swap in almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
4. Can I skip the egg yolks?
They add richness, but you can make an eggless version using a little more cornstarch.
5. How long does the pudding need to chill?
At least 2 hours, but overnight is best for the flavors to develop.
6. Can I add other toppings?
Yes! Try caramel drizzle, fresh berries, or even shredded coconut.
7. How long does it keep?
Up to 3 days in the refrigerator when covered well.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger saucepan and keep an eye on the cooking time.
9. Can I use store-bought pudding mix?
You can, but homemade pudding tastes so much better!
10. How do I keep the topping crunchy?
Add the chocolate-hazelnut topping right before serving for maximum crunch.

CONCLUSION

Creamy vanilla pudding with milk chocolate and hazelnut topping is the ultimate comfort dessert. It’s simple yet elegant, rich yet light, and guaranteed to satisfy any sweet craving. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe will always hit the sweet spot. Get ready to scoop up every last bit—you won’t want to waste a drop!

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