Creamiest Chocolate Pudding

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups 1% low-fat milk
• 1/2 cup evaporated fat-free milk
• 2 ounces bittersweet chocolate (60 to 70 percent cocoa), finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh mint sprigs (optional)

Preparation

1. Combine first 4 ingredients in a medium, heavy saucepan; stir with a whisk. Gradually add low-fat milk and evaporated milk, stirring with a whisk. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly with a whisk. Reduce heat, and simmer 1 minute or until thick. Remove from heat; add chocolate, stirring until melted and mixture is smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour about 2/3 cup pudding into each of 6 (8-ounce) ramekins; cover surface of each serving with plastic wrap. Chill at least 4 hours. Remove plastic wrap; serve. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs, if desired.