No Oven Needed: Creamy No Bake Chocolate Pudding with Agar Agar 🍮

Looking for a quick, rich, and silky chocolate dessert that requires zero oven time? This No Bake Chocolate Pudding hits all the right notes! Made with just a few simple ingredients — milk, dark chocolate, and agar agar — it's smooth, luscious, and super easy to make.

Whether you're whipping up a last-minute treat for guests or want something sweet and satisfying for yourself, this recipe is a must-try. The use of agar agar (a plant-based setting agent) means it’s also gelatin-free, making it perfect for vegetarians or anyone avoiding animal products.


🛒 Ingredients

For the Chocolate Pudding:

  • 450ml whole milk

  • 100g sugar

  • 7g agar agar powder

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 50ml heavy cream

  • 150g dark chocolate (70% cacao recommended)

For Garnish:

  • Chocolate shavings

  • Fresh strawberries (optional but highly recommended 🍓)


🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Warm the Milk & Sugar

    • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk and sugar. Stir gently until the sugar completely dissolves.

  2. Add Creamy Goodness

    • Pour in the heavy cream and continue to stir until it’s fully blended. This step adds richness and smooth texture.

  3. Mix in Agar Agar & Vanilla

    • Add the agar agar powder and vanilla extract. Stir to combine, then let it rest for 15 minutes off heat — this allows the agar agar to hydrate properly.

  4. Melt the Chocolate

    • Break the dark chocolate into small pieces. Turn the heat back on, add the chocolate to the mixture, and stir continuously until melted.

  5. Simmer & Activate the Agar Agar

    • Once the mixture begins to bubble, continue stirring and cook for 3–5 more minutes. This activates the agar agar and thickens the pudding base.

  6. Pour & Chill

    • Evenly pour the mixture into 8 small jars or ramekins (about 60g each). Let them cool slightly, then transfer to the fridge.

  7. Let It Set

    • Chill for at least 3 hours, or ideally 4–5 hours for a firmer set. You’ll know it’s ready when it holds its shape but still jiggles slightly.

  8. Garnish & Serve

    • Just before serving, top each pudding with a few chocolate shavings and fresh strawberries. Serve chilled and enjoy!


💡 Pro Tips

Customize the Chocolate – Want it less intense? Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate instead of dark.
❄️ Chill Time Matters – A longer chill gives a firmer texture and better flavor meld. Aim for at least 4 hours in warm climates.
🌿 Make it Vegan – Swap dairy milk for oat or almond milk and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Just make sure your chocolate is vegan too!
🍓 Play with Toppings – Try crushed cookies, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair.


🏆 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • 🍫 Ultra-chocolatey & creamy

  • 🥄 No oven or baking required

  • 🧊 Perfect make-ahead dessert

  • 🌱 Gelatin-free & vegetarian-friendly

  • 🕒 Quick to prepare with minimal cleanup


📌 FAQs

Can I use gelatin instead of agar agar?
Yes, but agar agar sets firmer and faster. You'd need to adjust the quantity and cooking method if substituting with gelatin.

What kind of chocolate works best?
Dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) is ideal, but you can experiment with milk or white chocolate for different sweetness levels.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your pot is big enough and stir continuously for even melting and thickening.

How long will this last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, these puddings will keep for up to 4–5 days.

Can I freeze it?
Freezing isn’t recommended as it can change the texture. Stick to refrigerating for best results.


📢 Share Your Experience!

Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @onesnaprecipes or TikTok @one.snap.recipes with your delicious creations! 🍫✨

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