Chocolate Cinnamon Cayenne Pudding
Makes enough for 4 small servings
Inspired by Essence of Chocolate
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons black cocoa or unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 1/2 cups milk
3.5 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Whisk together the cornstarch, sugar, cocoa, and spices in the bottom of a medium saucepan. Slowly add the milk and whisk to combine. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Remove from the heat, stir in the chocolate until completely melted and smooth, then add the vanilla.
Transfer to a bowl and to avoid “pudding skin” press plastic wrap directly against the surface of the pudding. Refrigerate until fully chilled then serve.
Note: This pudding has some heat! I would omit the cayenne pepper if you are planning on serving it to kids but I think most adults will find it has very sophisticated tasting notes.