Hot Chocolate Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Heat 4 cups of the milk in a large saucepan over medium heat until steaming.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, whisk the sugar, hot chocolate mix, cornstarch and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl.
3. 3
   Whisk in the egg yolks and the remaining 1/2 cup milk.
4. 4
   Slowly add half the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly until smooth.
5. 5
   Gradually whisk the egg-milk mixture into the remaining hot milk in the saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly.
6. 6
   Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture has thickened to a pudding-like consistency, 3 to 4 minutes.
7. 7
   Remove the saucepan from the heat, and stir in the vanilla.
8. 8
   Let the pudding cool slightly, stirring a few times to prevent a skin from forming.
9. 9
   Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding, and refrigerate until it has completely cooled and thickened, about 4 hours.
10. 10
    Before serving, whisk the pudding vigorously until it's smooth and creamy.
11. 11
    Spoon it into serving bowls, and top with dollops of whipped cream and a sprinkling of hot chocolate mix.