Step 1

Place all the ingredients for either mix in a large bowl and whisk to combine well. Store in a sealed glass container in a cool, dry location until ready to use.

Step 2

Place the dry mix in a medium-size heavy-bottom saucepan. Whisk in about 1/2 cup of the milk until smooth and well-combined.

Step 3

Add the rest of the milk in a slow drizzle, whisking constantly to combine.

Step 4

Place the pan over medium-low heat, bring to a simmer, and cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens enough for the whisk to leave a faintly visible trail in the pudding (about 4 minutes).

Step 5

Remove the pan from the heat, add the vanilla extract, and whisk to combine. Add the optional chopped chocolate and mix until the chocolate is melted.

Step 6

Pour the hot pudding into a 2-cup heat-safe container or a few smaller, heat-safe containers. To avoid a “pudding skin,” place plastic wrap directly on top of the warm pudding as it cools and then chills.

Step 7

Allow the pudding to cool to room temperature before placing in the refrigerator to chill until set (about an hour). Garnish with optional whipped cream and chocolate shavings, and serve chilled.

Step 8

Place the dry mix in a medium-size heavy-bottom saucepan. Whisk in about 1/2 cup of the milk until smooth and well-combined.

Step 9

Add the rest of the milk in a slow drizzle, whisking constantly to combine.

Step 10

Place the pan over medium-low heat, bring to a simmer, and cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens enough for the whisk to leave a faintly visible trail in the pudding (about 4 minutes).

Step 11

Remove the pan from the heat and add the vanilla extract and optional vanilla seeds, and whisk to combine.

Step 12

Pour the hot pudding into a 2-cup heat-safe container or a few smaller, heat-safe containers. To avoid a “pudding skin,” place plastic wrap directly on top of the warm pudding as it cools and then chills.

Step 13

Allow the pudding to cool to room temperature before placing in the refrigerator to chill until set (about an hour).

Step 14

Garnish with optional whipped cream and chocolate shavings, and serve chilled.