In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch, coffee, cocoa and salt. In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks just to break them up; whisk in the milk and maple syrup.

Add milk mixture to dry mixture in pot, stirring to combine. Slowly bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, using a rubber spatula to mix continuously but gently, scraping sides often. Continue to stir while mixture boils for 1 minute.

Remove from heat; stir in butter pieces and vanilla.

Spoon mixture into dessert dishes. Cover each pudding with cut-to-size wax paper to prevent skin from forming, and let cool before placing in refrigerator to chill for several hours.

Makes 4 servings.