Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding recipe. Combining the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookies with the creamy texture of homemade pudding, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a treat to enjoy at home, this recipe is both easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Pudding:
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips (for garnish)
Instructions:
Make the Cookie Dough:
In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring until combined. The dough will be thick.
Add milk to the dough one tablespoon at a time, just enough to make the dough soft but not sticky.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips. Chill the dough in the refrigerator while you make the pudding.
Prepare the Pudding:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is warm.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and salt with a little bit of the warm milk mixture to create a slurry.
Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry back into the saucepan with the milk mixture. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and just begins to bubble.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the pudding cool slightly, then refrigerate until it’s completely chilled.
Assemble the Dessert:
Take the cookie dough out of the refrigerator and roll it into small, bite-sized balls.
In serving glasses or bowls, layer the chilled pudding and cookie dough balls. Start with a layer of pudding, add a layer of cookie dough balls, and repeat until the glasses are filled.
Garnish the top with additional chocolate chips.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the assembled desserts for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cookie dough to soften slightly, enhancing the overall texture of the dessert.
Tips and Variations:
Safety Note: To make the cookie dough safe to eat raw, heat treat the flour by spreading it on a baking sheet and baking at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to kill any potential bacteria.
Variation: For a twist, try using white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips in the cookie dough.
Serving Suggestion: Serve the pudding with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips for an extra decadent treat.
This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding recipe is a playful and delicious dessert that combines the nostalgic taste of cookie dough with the creamy comfort of pudding. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, it’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of making it and, more importantly, savor every spoonful!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
Refrigeration: This dessert can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, and the cookie dough will soften further, making it even more delightful. Just be sure to cover the servings with plastic wrap to prevent the pudding from forming a skin and to keep the dessert fresh.
Make-Ahead: Both the cookie dough and the pudding can be made ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. The cookie dough can be kept for up to 5 days, and the pudding for up to 3 days. Assemble the desserts a few hours before serving to allow them to chill and set properly.
Serving Ideas:
Mini Desserts: For parties or gatherings, consider making mini versions of this dessert. Use small cups or shot glasses for an adorable and easy-to-serve option. They’re perfect for buffet-style settings or as part of a dessert bar.
Dessert Parfaits: Layer the pudding and cookie dough with whipped cream in tall glasses to create visually stunning parfaits. The layers of cream will add an extra level of richness and make the desserts even more eye-catching.
Customization: Encourage guests to customize their desserts by setting out bowls of toppings, such as various types of chips (chocolate, peanut butter, white chocolate), sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even fruit. This interactive element can be especially fun for kids and kids at heart.
Healthier Alternatives:
For those looking to enjoy this treat with a healthier twist, consider the following modifications:
Flour Alternatives: Use almond flour or oat flour in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of the cookie dough. Adjust the milk as needed since these flours may absorb moisture differently.
Sugar Substitutes: Reduce the sugar content by using alternatives like coconut sugar or a sugar-free substitute that measures like sugar. Keep in mind that this may affect the texture slightly.
Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, such as almond milk or coconut cream, and a dairy-free butter substitute for both the cookie dough and pudding. There are also many dairy-free chocolate chip options available on the market.
This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pudding recipe is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. It combines the joy of eating cookie dough straight from the bowl with the sophistication of a layered pudding dessert. By following this recipe or adapting it with the tips provided, you can create a memorable treat that satisfies your dessert cravings in the most delightful way. Enjoy crafting this sweet masterpiece and sharing it with friends, family, or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved indulgence.