Chocolate Lover’s Pudding

Directions

• In a large heavy saucepan, combine 1/4 cup sugar and milk. Bring just to a boil, stirring occasionally. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine cornstarch, salt and remaining sugar; whisk in egg yolks until smooth.
• Slowly pour hot milk mixture in a thin stream into egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly. Whisk in cocoa. Return mixture to saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring constantly until thickened, about 1 minute. Immediately remove from the heat.
• Stir in the chocolate, butter and vanilla until melted. Whisk until completely smooth. Cool for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer to dessert dishes. Serve warm or refrigerate, covered, 1 hour. Just before serving, top with raspberries if desired.