A rich and creamy chocolate pudding that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
In a medium bowl, whisk together a portion of the milk with the cornstarch until smooth. Add the egg yolks, sugar, and cocoa powder, and whisk until well combined.
Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in the pudding.
Heat the remaining milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to steam. Gradually whisk the hot milk into the pudding mixture, then return it all to the saucepan.
Add the hot milk slowly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
Cook the mixture over low heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5 minutes.
Keep the heat low to avoid scorching the pudding.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped chocolate, vanilla extract, and orange liqueur until smooth.
Stir until the chocolate is fully melted for a silky texture.
Divide the pudding into ramekins and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on the pudding.