I still remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s chocolate pudding. I was in my tiny kitchen, juggling a burnt toast fiasco on one side and a half-open recipe book on the counter. The moment that chocolate pudding came out of the oven, warm and wobbly, I forgot about all my earlier kitchen disasters. The aroma alone made me feel like I had just discovered a secret passage to happiness.
Chocolate pudding is more than dessert. It’s comfort. It’s the smell of childhood and the warmth of home. And Jamie’s version? It’s unpretentious, forgiving, and utterly indulgent. You don’t need fancy equipment or exotic ingredients. Just a little love, a few simple steps, and patience.
Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate Pudding Recipe
I’ve tried a few chocolate puddings in my life, some too dense, others too runny. But Jamie’s version struck a perfect balance.
- Texture: Soft, rich, and slightly gooey in the center
- Flavor: Deep chocolate notes with just enough sweetness to make you sigh
- Ease: Simple enough for a weekday treat, impressive enough for a dinner party
It’s the kind of dessert where the process is almost as enjoyable as eating it. Stirring the mixture, inhaling the chocolate aroma, and seeing it rise in the oven is pure therapy.
Ingredients Needed
I like laying out ingredients like old friends before starting. You’ll need:
- 200g dark chocolate – I always pick at least 70% cocoa for depth
- 200g unsalted butter – melts into silky richness
- 200g caster sugar – sweet but not overpowering
- 5 large eggs – room temperature for fluffiness
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – aroma that elevates everything
- Pinch of salt – enhances chocolate flavor
- Optional: A splash of espresso or a handful of nuts for a twist
Pro tip: Measure everything carefully. Chocolate pudding is forgiving, but accuracy makes it spectacular.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate Pudding
The first time I made it, I felt like a magician with a wand. Here’s the step-by-step approach:
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Butter a baking dish.
- Melt chocolate and butter: Use a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir gently until smooth. The smell alone is enough to make anyone happy.
- Mix eggs and sugar: Whisk until pale and fluffy. I like using a hand whisk; it feels satisfying.
- Combine: Fold the melted chocolate into the egg mixture. Add vanilla and salt. Stir gently so you don’t knock out air.
- Bake: Pour into the dish and bake 20-25 minutes. The edges should be set but the center slightly wobbly.
- Serve: Best warm with cream, ice cream, or a dusting of cocoa powder. Watching it jiggle as you cut into it is always magical.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Understanding why each ingredient matters makes cooking more satisfying:
- Chocolate: Cocoa solids give flavor. Cocoa butter gives texture and smoothness.
- Butter: Adds richness and tender crumb. It also helps the pudding set without drying out.
- Eggs: Provide structure. Whipping introduces air for lightness.
- Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the egg mixture, giving a smoother texture.
- Salt: Enhances sweetness and deepens chocolate notes.
Science is why this pudding works every time. It’s chemistry disguised as comfort.
Expert Tips
Over my many chocolate experiments, I’ve picked up a few tricks Jamie might approve of:
- Use good-quality chocolate. Cheap chocolate can taste waxy.
- Melt chocolate slowly to avoid burning. Patience here pays off.
- Don’t overmix eggs and chocolate. Air is good, but you don’t want a rubbery pudding.
- Check oven carefully. Slight wobble = perfect center.
Recipe Variations
Once I nailed the original, I started experimenting. Here are some fun spins:
- Mocha pudding: Add a teaspoon of espresso to chocolate melt
- Nutty twist: Fold in chopped hazelnuts or almonds
- Fruity surprise: Mix in raspberries for tart contrast
- Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for warmth
Each variation brings a new personality to the classic.
Final Words
The magic of this pudding isn’t just in eating it. It’s in the process, the smells, the anticipation, and the tiny victories when it comes out perfect. Every spoonful feels like a hug, warm and reassuring.
FAQs
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate Pudding Take To Cook?
It usually takes about 30 minutes to bake the pudding and around 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate Pudding In Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute For Butter In Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate Pudding?
You can use margarine, oil, or a dairy-free butter substitute for a similar texture.