There’s something truly magical about combining two beloved desserts into one creamy indulgence, and that’s exactly what this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe delivers. Imagine the dreamy richness of silky pudding intertwined with the nostalgic goodness of cookie dough, studded with mini chocolate chips that melt ever so slightly on your tongue. It’s the perfect comfort dessert that feels both playful and elegant, making every spoonful a little celebration. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat for yourself or aiming to impress friends at your next gathering, this recipe is an absolute must-try that brings joy with each bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe just right depends on some simple but key ingredients that all work harmoniously to build the perfect texture and flavor. Each one is thoughtfully chosen to create that luscious pudding base and the irresistible cookie dough character.
- Whole milk: Provides a creamy foundation and smooth body for the pudding.
- Heavy cream: Adds rich texture and a velvety finish that makes the pudding feel indulgent.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding without overpowering the cookie dough taste.
- Cornstarch: The magic thickener that gives the pudding its custard-like consistency.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warm, aromatic notes which marry beautifully with cookie dough.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and a subtle depth to the flavor profile.
- Brown sugar (packed): Gives that classic caramel undertone true to cookie dough’s signature flavor.
- Mini chocolate chips: Deliver delightful bursts of melty chocolate in every spoonful.
- All-purpose flour (heat-treated): Provides the authentic cookie dough texture safely, without any raw flour concerns.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Milk and Cream
Start by combining whole milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, just until it begins to simmer. You want it hot enough to activate the thickening agents but be careful not to let it boil or scald, as that could affect the smoothness of your pudding. Watching it closely here sets the stage for a perfectly creamy base.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
While your milk and cream are warming, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl. This step is key because it ensures the thickening happens evenly without clumps, giving you a silky rather than gritty pudding. The salt might seem small, but it plays a quiet yet crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Mixtures
Gradually pour the dry mix into your warm milk and cream, whisking constantly. This steady stirring helps incorporate the ingredients smoothly and prevents lumps from forming. Keep cooking the mixture over medium heat for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens to a custard-like texture. You’ll know it’s ready when it holds its shape just a little on your spoon.
Step 4: Add Butter, Vanilla, and Flour
Remove your pan from heat, and immediately stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract. These ingredients bring that indulgent, buttery richness and the familiar aroma that remind you of fresh cookie dough. Next, fold in the heat-treated flour, which mimics the authentic raw cookie dough texture safely. This flour should be warmed ahead of time in the microwave or oven to eliminate any bacteria, making your dessert both delicious and safe.
Step 5: Add the Cookie Dough Flavor
Now for the fun part: fold in the packed brown sugar and mini chocolate chips. The brown sugar dissolves to deepen the pudding’s sweetness and adds that characteristic cookie dough caramel note, while the chocolate chips introduce pockets of melty chocolate joy. Stir gently to distribute evenly without breaking the chips apart.
Step 6: Chill the Pudding
Transfer your freshly made pudding either into individual serving cups or one large bowl. Let it cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes before covering and placing it in the refrigerator. Chilling for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the pudding to set perfectly, offering that satisfying creamy yet firm texture you’re aiming for.
Step 7: Serve
Once chilled, this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe is ready to delight. Top it off with extra chocolate chips or a sprinkle of brown sugar for that finishing touch. Every mouthful brings the warmth of cookie dough and the cool smoothness of pudding together—truly a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your pudding by garnishing with extra mini chocolate chips, a light dusting of brown sugar, or even a few dollops of whipped cream. Crumbled nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add an exciting texture contrast. These little touches not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also create more layers of flavor for your guests to enjoy.
Side Dishes
Pair this dessert with fresh berries or sliced fruit to cut through the richness and add a refreshing burst of natural sweetness. A simple cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk complements the pudding perfectly, balancing indulgence with familiarity. For an elegant dessert spread, consider serving it alongside buttery shortbread or vanilla biscotti.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, try layering the pudding with whipped cream and crushed cookies in clear glasses for a parfait effect. Alternatively, serve it in small mason jars with rustic ribbon accents for gift-worthy presentation. You can also spoon it into mini tart shells to transform it into an adorable bite-sized treat. The versatility of this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe makes it a crowd-pleaser no matter how you serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pudding should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy this magical dessert a few times without any fuss. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any other flavors from your fridge.
Freezing
This pudding is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated—freezing isn’t recommended. The texture of pudding and cookie dough components can change after thawing, leading to separation or a less creamy consistency. If you do freeze it, expect some changes in texture and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Since this dessert is primarily served chilled, reheating is not necessary or advised. If you prefer it slightly warmer, you can gently bring it to room temperature on the counter for about 15 minutes before serving. Warmth can soften the chocolate chips, adding a melty touch, but avoid heating it too much or the pudding may break down.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat milk or cream instead of whole milk and heavy cream?
While low-fat options can work, they will alter the richness and creaminess of the pudding. Whole milk and heavy cream create the best texture and flavor for this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe, giving it that indulgent, silky mouthfeel you want.
Why do I need to heat-treat the flour?
Raw flour can contain bacteria that aren’t safe to consume. Heating the flour before adding it to your pudding ensures it’s safe to eat while preserving that authentic cookie dough texture. It only takes a few minutes and is an important step for safety.
Can I substitute chocolate chunks instead of mini chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Chunky chocolate pieces can give a more intense chocolate burst and a different texture, which some people love. Just chop them small enough to blend well with the pudding to keep each spoonful balanced and enjoyable.
How long does the pudding need to chill?
For best results, chill the pudding for at least 2 hours. This allows it to fully set and for the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, 1 hour can work, but the texture won’t be as firm or satisfying.
Is this recipe allergen-friendly?
This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe contains dairy and gluten due to the butter, cream, milk, and flour. If you have allergies, you’ll need to seek substitutes or avoid this recipe. There are gluten-free and dairy-free pudding alternatives you could explore separately.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic journey and a comforting treat all in one bowl. Its creamy texture combined with the playful cookie dough flavor makes it an irresistible option for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new go-to sweet indulgence.
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Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding is a delightful, creamy dessert that mimics the flavor and texture of cookie dough in a smooth pudding form. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, and a blend of sugars and chocolate chips, this recipe offers an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The pudding is gently cooked on the stovetop to achieve a custard-like consistency, then chilled for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips, chopped)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (heat-treated*)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to simmer (but not boil). Monitor closely to avoid scalding.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well combined.
- Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pudding thickens to a custard-like consistency.
- Add butter, vanilla, and flour: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and heat-treated flour. Mix until the pudding is smooth and fully combined.
- Add the cookie dough flavor: Fold in the brown sugar and chocolate chips gently, ensuring the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the pudding.
- Chill the pudding: Transfer the pudding to individual serving cups or a large bowl. Let it cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely chilled.
- Serve: Serve the chilled pudding topped with additional chocolate chips or a sprinkle of brown sugar if desired. Enjoy this creamy, cookie dough-inspired dessert!
Notes
- To heat-treat the flour, microwave it for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to eliminate any bacteria.
- Use mini chocolate chips for better distribution and texture, but chopped regular chips also work well.
- Make sure to whisk constantly when mixing dry ingredients into the hot milk to avoid lumps.
- Refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free butter.
