Milk Chocolate Pudding

In a medium bowl, whisk the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk the cream and cornstarch until smooth.

Bring the milk to a boil in a heavy-duty 3-quart saucepan over medium heat. Whisk 3/4 cup of the hot milk into the cream mixture. Add to the dry ingredients and whisk until fully incorporated. Add the cocoa mixture to the remaining milk. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat and add the chocolate and vanilla. Let stand 1 minute. Whisk until smooth.

Divide the mixture among six 6-oz. ramekins or small serving dishes and serve. Or if you prefer chilled pudding, put plastic wrap directly on the surfaces of the puddings and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and no longer than 2 hours.