Chocolate Strawberry Pudding Parfait

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Pudding Parfait
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 cup whipped cream; Chocolate shavings or sprinkles for garnish

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings

I absolutely adore this Chocolate Strawberry Pudding Parfait! It combines the rich decadence of chocolate pudding with the vibrant freshness of strawberries, creating a delightful dessert that's both indulgent and refreshing. Preparing this parfait is a wonderful way to showcase seasonal berries, and the layering process brings it all together visually and texturally. Each spoonful is a perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and chocolaty goodness that leaves everyone wanting more. It's a dessert that's surprisingly easy to make and always impresses at gatherings!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:34:34.208Z

Creating the Chocolate Strawberry Pudding Parfait was a delightful experience for me. I wanted to make a dessert that felt indulgent but also included fresh ingredients. The key is to use quality chocolate for the pudding—it makes such a difference in the flavor. I also recommend letting the pudding cool slightly before layering it with strawberries, as this helps create beautiful layers without wilting the fruit.

I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly this dessert came together. After just a few minutes of preparation, I had an impressive and delicious treat that my family couldn't resist. The combination of smooth chocolate and sweet strawberries is a crowd favorite every time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the fruit
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Mastering the Chocolate Pudding

The chocolate pudding is the star of this dessert, so it's essential to get it just right. Cook the mixture over medium heat while continuously whisking; this helps prevent lumps and ensures a silky smooth pudding. Look for the pudding to thicken significantly, usually around 5-7 minutes, when it starts to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick after cooling, try whisking in a tablespoon of milk to achieve your desired consistency.

While cornstarch is key in thickening the pudding, you could also use arrowroot powder as a gluten-free alternative. The chocolate flavor can be intensified by using high-quality cocoa powder; a Dutch-processed cocoa can also add a richer taste. Be mindful of how long you whisk after adding the vanilla extract—over-whisking can cause the pudding to lose its velvety texture.

Strawberry Preparation Tips

Slicing the strawberries evenly allows for uniform sweetness and texture in each layer of the parfait. Letting them sit with sugar for about 10 minutes is crucial; this process, called maceration, draws out the natural juices, which enhances their sweetness and can create a delicious strawberry syrup at the bottom of your parfait. If strawberries are out of season, feel free to use other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.

For a twist, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries while they macerate. This elevates the flavor and adds a sophisticated touch. If you're looking to minimize sugar, consider using agave syrup or honey instead, adjusting the quantities to suit your taste.

Layering and Serving Suggestions

Layering is where the parfait's visual appeal comes into play. Use clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers of chocolate pudding and strawberries. To create distinct layers, alternate between pudding and strawberries while leaving some berries for the top. This way, each spoonful offers a balanced combination of chocolate and fruit. I recommend using a piping bag for the whipped cream to create a professional-looking garnish.

These parfaits can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making them convenient for gatherings. If you prefer a firmer texture, let the assembled parfaits chill for at least an hour before serving. Just be sure to add any chocolate shavings or sprinkles just before serving; they’ll maintain their texture and add a lovely crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Chocolate Strawberry Pudding Parfait.

Chocolate Pudding

1 cup milk
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Strawberry Layer

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons sugar

Whipped Topping

1 cup whipped cream
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to create this delightful dessert!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your parfait.

Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Let it cool before layering.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit for around 10 minutes to release their juices and enhance their sweetness.

Layer the Parfait

In serving glasses, start by adding a layer of chocolate pudding, followed by a layer of strawberries. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with whipped cream on top.

Garnish and Serve

Add chocolate shavings or sprinkles on top of the whipped cream for a special touch. Chill the parfaits for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Pudding Parfait!

Pro Tips

For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding a splash of coffee to the chocolate pudding mixture. Additionally, feel free to use other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for variety.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're prepping for a party or event, you can prepare each component of the parfait ahead of time. The chocolate pudding can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container; just remember to place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Sliced strawberries can also be prepared a few hours ahead; simply keep them in the fridge until you're ready to layer them.

Whipped cream can be stabilized with a spoonful of powdered sugar or cornstarch, which can help it hold its shape for a longer time. If you're short on time, consider using store-bought whipped topping. However, homemade whipped cream enhances the flavor and texture of the parfait, making it well worth the extra effort.

Adjusting for Dietary Restrictions

This parfait is easily customizable for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk in the pudding with almond, coconut, or oat milk and use dairy-free whipped cream. Select chocolate that is vegan-friendly for the pudding. If you're sugar-free, try using a sugar substitute in both the pudding and strawberry mixtures without compromising flavor.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, just ensure that your cocoa powder and any store-bought ingredients are labeled gluten-free. With these tweaks, you can enjoy this delectable dessert without worry, making it suitable for diverse diets while still being delicious.

Flavor Variations

To add a unique twist to your Chocolate Strawberry Pudding Parfait, consider incorporating different flavors in the pudding, such as a hint of espresso or orange zest. These additions not only enhance the chocolate but also create an unexpected depth that elevates the overall dish. Experimenting with flavored extracts, like peppermint or almond, can also give your parfait a seasonal flair.

Another delightful variation is to include a layer of crunchy granola or crushed cookies between the pudding and strawberries, adding a satisfying texture contrast. Pairing with other fruits like bananas or peaches can also create exciting new flavor profiles that complement the chocolate beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pudding?

Absolutely! Store-bought chocolate pudding can save time and still taste great in this recipe.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can use almond milk or coconut milk for the pudding and substitute the whipped cream with a vegan alternative.

→ How long will the parfaits keep in the fridge?

The parfaits can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it's best to eat them fresh.

→ Can I prepare the layers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chocolate pudding and sliced strawberries a day ahead. Just assemble the parfaits before serving.