View Gallery 4 photos budino: Dessert You Won’t Be Able To Stop Making
Description
budino: Dessert You Won't Be Able To Stop Making
If you're looking for a dessert that's rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent, look no further than budino—Italy’s answer to pudding, but with a luxurious twist. This silky-smooth treat is made from a luscious custard of milk, eggs, and cornstarch, offering a texture that’s denser and more decadent than traditional puddings. With hints of velvety caramel and warm vanilla, budino delivers an unforgettable melt-in-your-mouth experience, reminiscent of the finest Italian pastry delights.
What sets budino apart is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. A buttery cookie crust forms the base, adding a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich, velvety custard. The custard itself, infused with brown sugar and a touch of rum (if you’re feeling indulgent), has a deep, caramelized sweetness that lingers on the palate. And to top it all off? A light and airy whipped cream topping that makes every bite feel like a little taste of heaven.
Whether served as an elegant dinner party dessert or a cozy treat for yourself, budino is effortless yet luxurious. Once you try it, you won’t be able to stop making it—because who can resist a spoonful of pure, creamy bliss?
Ingredients
CRUST
CUSTARD
TOPPING
Instructions
To make the crust
- In a small bowl, combine the cookie crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix well, then spoon the mixture evenly into two small cups or glasses.
To make the custard
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of the milk with the cornstarch until smooth, then set aside.
In a saucepan, heat the remaining ½ cup of milk just until it begins to bubble.
In a large heat-proof bowl, whisk the egg yolk. Gradually stream the warmed milk into the yolk, whisking vigorously to combine, then whisk in the milk and cornstarch mixture. Set this aside.
Using the same pan, heat the brown sugar and 3 tablespoons of water, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
Slowly pour the sugar mixture into the bowl with the milk and egg mixture, whisking vigorously to incorporate. Return the combined mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until it begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the cold butter, vanilla extract, rum (if using), and a pinch of salt. Pour the custard over the prepared cookie crumbs in the cups and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
To make the topping and finish
- Whip the cream using a stand mixer, an electric hand mixer, or by hand until it starts to thicken. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until the cream is fluffy. Top each budino with a generous dollop of whipped cream and garnish with extra cookie crumbs.
Note
Variations:
Caramel: To make a caramel variation, heat the brown sugar syrup (without stirring) to around 220°F to create a simple homemade caramel sauce. Once the budino is chilled and set, top it with either homemade or store-bought caramel sauce before adding a dollop of whipped cream.
Mocha: For a mocha twist, steep one tablespoon of coffee grounds in the milk while heating, then strain out the grounds before mixing the milk into the eggs. Use Oreo or other chocolate cookie crumbs for the crust, and add a few generous pinches of cocoa powder to the whipped cream mixture. Swap the rum in the custard for your favorite coffee-flavored liqueur, such as Kahlua. Optionally, drizzle chocolate sauce on top of the chilled and set budino before adding whipped cream.
Amaretti: Create an amaretti version by using amaretti cookies for the crust. Add ¼ teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla extract when making the custard, and substitute amaretto liqueur for the rum in the custard. Garnish with chopped almonds.
Lemon: For a lemon variation, use lemon-flavored shortbread cookies for the crust. Steep the zest of one lemon in the milk as it heats; if finely grated, there's no need to strain the zest out. Once the budino is chilled and set, top it with strawberry or raspberry jam and garnish with candied lemon peel.
FAQ
1. What is budino?
Budino is a classic Italian dessert, similar to pudding or custard but with a richer, creamier texture. It’s made with milk, eggs, and cornstarch, often flavored with vanilla, caramel, or chocolate.
2. How is budino different from regular pudding?
Unlike traditional American pudding, budino has a silkier, more indulgent texture due to its egg-based custard. It’s closer to a crème brûlée or Mexican flan but without the caramelized sugar layer on top.
3. Can I make budino without eggs?
Yes! While eggs give budino its richness, you can substitute them with extra cornstarch or a plant-based thickener like agar-agar for a dairy-free or vegan version.
4. What type of cookies work best for the crust?
Any crisp cookie works well, but graham crackers, shortbread, or biscotti add the best flavor. You can also use chocolate cookies for a richer taste.
5. How long does budino need to chill?
For the best texture, refrigerate budino for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal to allow the flavors to fully develop.
6. Can I make budino ahead of time?
Absolutely! Budino can be made 1-2 days in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to serve. Just add the whipped cream topping right before serving for the freshest taste.
7. Can I add other flavors to budino?
Yes! Budino is incredibly versatile. Try adding chocolate, espresso, caramel, or even a splash of liqueur like amaretto or bourbon for a unique twist.
8. How should budino be served?
Serve budino chilled in small ramekins or dessert cups. Garnish with whipped cream, cookie crumbs, chocolate shavings, or caramel drizzle for an elegant finish.
9. Can I freeze budino?
Budino is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to one month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
10. Is budino gluten-free?
The custard itself is naturally gluten-free. Simply use gluten-free cookies for the crust to make the entire dessert safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Did you make this recipe?
pinterest Pin this recipe to share with your friends and followers.
