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Coffee Budino Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to a Creamy Italian Dessert

Two glasses of creamy coffee budino topped with whipped cream and cocoa powder, served on a rustic wooden table.

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Silky, rich, and infused with deep espresso flavor, this Italian coffee budino is the ultimate comfort dessert, a creamy indulgence that brings Roman café vibes straight to your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup fresh espresso or strong brewed coffee
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 23 ounces dark chocolate (optional, for variation)

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients and brew a fresh shot of espresso.
  2. In a small bowl, lightly whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, and espresso.
  4. Slowly temper the yolk mixture with a bit of the hot liquid while whisking constantly.
  5. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbling (about 5–7 minutes).
  6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, butter, and chocolate (if using).
  7. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve.
  8. Pour into ramekins or serving glasses.
  9. Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  10. Serve topped with whipped cream, cocoa powder, or chocolate shavings.

Notes

For a mocha twist, melt in dark chocolate before chilling. Strain the custard for a silky finish and let chill thoroughly for best texture.

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