Chocolate Gravy

Years ago, when I lived in California, I had a dear friend that was from Oklahoma.  He said that they ate warm chocolate gravy for breakfast.  I remember as a child, my mother serving us warm chocolate pudding.  Today is a good day for warm chocolate pudding.  This pudding can be eaten warm or cold and can be called pudding or chocolate gravy.  You get to pick.  I like it both ways for breakfast and for supper; warm and cold.  

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/2 cup sugar

1/8 teaspoon salt

3 cups whole milk

6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Combine the cornstarch, sugar and salt in the top of a double boiler. Slowly whisk in the milk, scraping the bottom and sides with a heatproof spatula to incorporate the dry ingredients. Place over gently simmering water and stir occasionally, scraping the bottom and sides. Use a whisk as necessary should lumps begin to form. After 15 to 20 minutes, when the mixture begins to thicken and coats the back of the spoon, add the chocolate chips. Continue stirring for about 2 to 4 minutes, or until the pudding is smooth and thickened. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla.

Strain through a fine mesh strainer and pour into a serving bowl or into individual mugs.  You may also pour them into small mason jars and store in the refrigerator for a snack time treat and allow them to chill or serve it warm. 

If you are going to chill it and if you like pudding skin, pull plastic wrap over the top of the serving dish(es) before refrigerating. If you dislike pudding skin, place plastic wrap on top of the pudding and smooth it gently against the surface before refrigerating. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and it will store up to 3 days.

I love it when there are no rules and you get to have it your way.  Try putting marshmallows in the bottom of a mug and they will melt to the top.  Then toss a couple on the top and serve warm like hot chocolate.  

I like it hot, but you can let it cool and it is a beautiful dessert and kids love it.  Stay warm today. 

Be happy and may God bless you and yours.