Step 1

Prepare Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks for about 60 seconds until they turn light yellow. Add cornstarch and 1/4 cup of milk. Whisk until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2

Heat Milk Mixture: In a saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and the remaining milk. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches about 180-190ºF. You'll see tiny bubbles forming at the sides.

Step 3

Combine Mixtures: Remove the saucepan from heat. Slowly add the hot milk mixture to the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling.

Step 4

Cook Pudding: Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat, keep whisking until it boils. Lower the heat and continue to whisk until the pudding thickens.

Step 5

Chill and Serve: Remove from heat, add chocolate or vanilla extract. Pour into a bowl and cover with plastic wrap touching the surface. Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.