The deep, chocolaty flavor of these silky puddings from pastry chef Clarice Lam is intensified by the addition of miso-enriched caramel. The cornstarch in the custard base helps thicken the puddings and keep them from curdling or breaking. Be sure to bring the leftover caramel to the table; its savory, bitter, and sweet flavor will have guests reaching for more.

Ingredients

Ingredient Checklist

• 2 large eggs
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, divided
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chunks
• ½ cups unsalted butter (4 ounces), cubed and softened, divided
• ¾ cup heavy cream, warmed
• ⅔ cup light corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons red miso
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream, for serving