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Butterscotch Budino Dessert Recipe

4.1 from 34 reviews

This classic Italian Butterscotch Budino is a thick, creamy, and sweet homemade pudding dessert made with brown sugar, half and half, egg yolks, and butter, finished with vanilla extract for extra depth. Ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for a decadent treat served with salted caramel sauce and sea salt.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups half and half (2 cups milk + 2 cups heavy cream)
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 5 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes

  • Thick caramel sauce
  • Coarse sea salt

Instructions

  1. Make the caramel base: Set a large saucepot over medium-low heat. Combine the brown sugar, water, and salt in the pot. Swirl gently without stirring and bring to a boil. Cook for 5-6 minutes until a rich brown color develops, then turn off the heat to allow it to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the custard mixture: While the caramel cools, whisk together the half and half, egg yolks, and cornstarch in a mixing bowl until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Combine caramel and custard: Gradually add the dairy mixture to the slightly cooled caramel in the pot, whisking constantly. The caramel may seize initially but will melt back into the custard as it heats.
  4. Cook the pudding: Return the pot to medium-low heat and continue whisking steadily as the mixture thickens. Cook until it reaches a firm pudding consistency, ensuring it doesn’t scorch.
  5. Finish and strain: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the butter,and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl to remove any lumps and achieve a silky texture.
  6. Chill and serve: Pour the budino into ½ cup ramekins or serving jars. Let cool slightly at room temperature, then top with thick caramel sauce and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt if desired. Cover and refrigerate until set and ready to serve.

Notes

 

  • Leftovers should be stored covered in the refrigerator and will keep well for up to one week.

Keywords: butterscotch budino, Italian dessert, butterscotch pudding, homemade pudding, caramel pudding, creamy dessert