This Baileys Chocolate Pudding makes a rich, silky dessert perfect for St. Patrick’s Day. Made with Dutch-processed cocoa and chopped dark chocolate, it delivers a deep chocolate flavor balanced by a touch of Baileys Irish Cream for an indulgent, boozy finish.
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Baileys Chocolate Pudding
I don’t post many St. Patrick’s Day recipes, but when I do, I like them to feel celebratory and a little indulgent. This Baileys Chocolate Pudding is a lighter, no-egg alternative to creamier desserts like cheesecake while still delivering an intensely chocolatey experience. It’s rich without being heavy and is finished with Baileys Irish Cream stirred in after cooking so the boozy flavor stays bright.
This recipe skips eggs, relying on cornstarch to thicken the pudding. Using both Dutch-processed cocoa powder and chopped dark chocolate gives the pudding depth and complexity: the cocoa adds a robust cocoa backbone while the chopped chocolate and butter folded in at the end create a velvet-smooth texture. I like a high-percentage dark chocolate (around 70–72%) for balance, but you can choose a sweeter bar if you prefer.
Because the Baileys is added after removing the pudding from the heat, the alcohol taste remains noticeable but not overpowering. If you’re serving children or prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the Baileys with an equal amount of additional milk and the pudding will still be delicious.
This recipe comes together on the stovetop in a single saucepan and simply needs to chill for a few hours before serving. It’s ideal for making ahead: pour the hot pudding into individual dishes or a single bowl, press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and a scattering of chocolate chips for texture and presentation.
Enjoy this pudding after a hearty St. Patrick’s Day meal or as a special treat any time you want a fast, elegant chocolate dessert that feels a little grown-up.
Easy Baileys Chocolate Pudding Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 | Author: Sharon Lachendro
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder (such as Rodelle Baking Cocoa)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 oz. dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Baileys Original Irish Cream (omit for a non-alcoholic version)
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Chocolate chips, for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until evenly combined.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the dry ingredients are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, whisking almost constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches a gentle boil, about 15 minutes. Keep the heat moderate so the pudding thickens without scorching.
- Once thickened, stir in the butter and continue stirring for another minute so the butter melts and the texture becomes glossy.
- Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla, chopped dark chocolate, and Baileys Irish Cream. Stir vigorously until the chocolate is completely melted and the pudding is smooth.
- Immediately divide the pudding among four individual dishes or pour into one large heatproof bowl. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully chilled and set. Before serving, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate chips if desired.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 377 kcal | Carbohydrates: 48 g | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 19 g | Saturated Fat: 11 g | Sugar: 36 g
Notes
If serving children, replace the Baileys with 1/4 cup additional milk. For a silkier texture, use a whisk while stirring and be sure to press plastic wrap onto the surface while chilling to avoid a skin.
Disclaimers
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I may earn from qualifying purchases. Nutrition facts are estimated and may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes. Consult a nutritionist for specific dietary concerns.
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