Description
This Creamy Butterscotch Budino is a luscious and velvety Italian-style pudding that combines rich caramel flavors with a smooth, creamy texture. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dessert is simple to make yet impressively decadent, perfect for any occasion where a sweet, comforting treat is desired.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel
- 1 cup light brown sugar (can substitute dark brown sugar for deeper flavor)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt (sea salt or kosher salt preferred)
Pudding Base
- 1 cup half and half (can substitute whole milk or non-dairy milk)
- 1/2 cup milk (can substitute extra half and half or heavy cream)
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional but recommended)
- 4 large egg yolks (use yolks only)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (can substitute arrowroot powder)
- 2 tablespoons butter (can use non-dairy butter alternative)
- 1 tablespoon dark rum or bourbon (optional, omit for non-alcoholic)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use pure vanilla extract)
Instructions
- Making the Caramel: In a large saucepan, combine the light brown sugar, water, and salt. Gently swirl the pot without stirring to mix the ingredients, then heat the mixture until it comes to a boil. Continue cooking for 5-6 minutes until the caramel develops a rich amber color, indicating it is ready.
- Preparing the Pudding Mixture: While the caramel cools slightly, whisk together the half and half, egg yolks, and cornstarch in a separate mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Combining Dairy with Caramel: Slowly pour the dairy and egg yolk mixture into the cooled caramel while continuously whisking to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth blend.
- Cooking the Budino: Place the saucepan back on medium-low heat and whisk the mixture constantly as it thickens. This process should take approximately 5-7 minutes until the pudding reaches a creamy, thick consistency.
- Finishing Touches: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the butter until melted and fully incorporated. Add in the optional dark rum or bourbon and vanilla extract for enhanced flavor, mixing thoroughly.
- Straining for Smoothness: Pour the pudding through a fine mesh sieve into another bowl to eliminate any lumps, ensuring a silky smooth texture.
- Chilling and Serving: Divide the budino evenly into ramekins or serving dishes. Optionally, top each with a sprinkle of salted caramel for added flavor contrast. Refrigerate the desserts for 1-2 hours until fully set and chilled before serving.
Notes
- Use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a deeper, more intense caramel flavor.
- For a non-dairy version, substitute non-dairy milk and butter alternatives accordingly.
- Alcohol like dark rum or bourbon adds complexity but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic dessert.
- Constant whisking during cooking prevents the mixture from curdling and ensures a smooth pudding.
- Straining the pudding is essential for a silky texture and removes any cooked egg bits.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour or until the budino is set properly before serving.
