The Creamy Italian Dessert That Makes A Great Pudding Alternative

It's time to give pudding an upgrade by looking to budino as inspiration. The Italian budino is one of those desserts from around the world that we suggest you try. Simplicity adds to the decadent beauty of this dish, as a basic recipe is made up of a milky, eggy custard that is whipped with cornstarch to thicken its texture. This basic canvas can then be flavored to the whims of the chef, and you'll find budino recipes that deliver chocolate-forward deliciousness and salted-caramel-topped treats. 

Think of budino as the Italian take on American pudding, but the texture of this pudding is closer to flan. Instead of simply plopping the mixture into a dish, some type of crust made from crushed cookies can provide a light, texturally satisfying base. Dollops of whipped cream or pillowy toppings garnish the surface of these treats, and it isn't uncommon for chefs to drizzle caramel or chocolate syrup to finish the dessert before garnishing the creation with powdery sprinkles of cocoa, cinnamon, or chopped nuts. 

Though caramel, coffee, vanilla, and honey-flavored budino recipes are easy to come by, lemony budinos can be an equally refreshing treat served at dinner parties held during warmer seasons. Because this simple presentation can be customized according to seasonal ingredients and dietary preferences, you can play with the ingredients used to make the crumby crust — think amaretti cookies, your favorite oatmeal cookies, Oreos, or biscotti. Extracts like almond, hazelnut, and vanilla can punch up the flavor of your creamy creations, and custard mixtures can be boozed up with Kahlua, amaretto, or rum before being placed into pretty dishes and topped with homemade honey whipped cream. 

For fresher desserts, a budino recipe made with lemon can be set on top of crushed ginger or shortbread cookies, and spoonfuls of raspberry compote or blueberry jam can top these delicate desserts. Proceed with caution, however. Once you've opened the door to this easy treat, you may be indulging in dessert with more regularity.