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creamy, dark chocolate Budino (Italian chocolate custard) in a ramekin with soft, whipped cream on top, and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.

Chocolate Budino (Italian Chocolate Custard)

This rich and silky Italian chocolate custard, called Budino al Cioccolato, combines smooth milk, cream, egg yolks, and high-quality dark chocolate. Perfect for serving warm or chilled, it's an elegant dessert with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian, European
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 6-8 oz dark chocolate 70-85% cocoa
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tbsp butter optional
  • Cocoa powder or espresso optional for added flavor

Method
 

Prepare Ingredients:
  1. Chop dark chocolate into small pieces.
  2. Whisk egg yolks, eggs, and sugar in a medium bowl.
Cook the Custard:
  1. In a saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over low-medium heat until hot but not boiling.
  2. Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
Cook the Mixture:
  1. Return the mixture to the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Continue until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon (about 5 minutes).
Add Chocolate and Finish:
  1. Remove the custard from heat. Add chopped dark chocolate, stir until smooth and glossy.
  2. Stir in butter, salt, and vanilla extract. If desired, add a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a shot of espresso for extra depth.
Strain the Custard:
  1. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure smoothness.
Serve:
  1. Pour the custard into ramekins. You can serve it immediately for a warm dessert or chill in the fridge for 2-4 hours for a firmer, spoonable texture.
Optional Toppings:
  1. Top with softly whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or toasted nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts before serving.

Notes

  • Storage: You can store the custard covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave if serving warm again.
  • Serving: The texture can be either soft and pourable if served warm or chilled for a firmer, spoonable texture. Both are authentic.
  • Customization: Feel free to add a shot of espresso or a tablespoon of cocoa powder for extra flavor depth.