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Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino Recipe

4.5 from 50 reviews

Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of this Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino, a creamy and luscious Italian-inspired pudding infused with Chinese five spice and dark chocolate. Finished with a fluffy vanilla whipped cream and chocolate shavings, this elegant dessert is perfect for any occasion and offers a delightful balance of spice and sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Budino:

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 tbsp Dutch-processed cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp Chinese five spice powder (salt-free)
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch flaky sea salt
  • ⅔ cup (160 ml) whole milk
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) heavy cream
  • 4 oz (120 g) 70% dark chocolate, chopped

Whipped Cream:

  • ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
  • ⅛ tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ½ tbsp powdered sugar
  • Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sieve: Place a large fine mesh sieve over a large bowl and set it aside for later use to strain the pudding mixture.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, granulated sugar, Chinese five spice powder, ground cinnamon, and flaky sea salt until smooth and combined.
  3. Add Dairy and Heat: Pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, then place the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk frequently to prevent lumps and allow the mixture to heat evenly.
  4. Thicken the Pudding: As the mixture begins to bubble, whisk constantly for about 4–5 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Test thickness by running a finger along the spoon’s back; the trail should remain visible.
  5. Incorporate Chocolate: Turn off the heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Whisk vigorously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and thick.
  6. Strain Mixture: Pour the pudding through the prepared fine mesh sieve into the bowl, stirring gently and pressing with a spoon to extract as much smooth pudding as possible without pushing through any cooked egg bits. Scrape off any pudding clinging to the sieve’s underside.
  7. Chill the Budino: Divide the strained budino mixture evenly into four 5-ounce ramekins placed on a small baking sheet. Tap them gently to smooth the surface. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until set and chilled through.
  8. Prepare Whipped Cream: In a small bowl, use an electric hand mixer to whip the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
  9. Serve: Top each chilled budino with a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, spiced dessert.

Notes

  • Chinese Five Spice: Ensure you use a salt-free five spice blend to avoid altering the dessert’s seasoning. The Spice Hunter brand is recommended.
  • Cooking Tip: The mixture thickens quickly once bubbling starts, so keep a close eye and whisk frequently to prevent lumps and scorching.
  • Storage: Budino can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Add whipped cream just before serving for best texture.

Keywords: Dark Chocolate Budino, Five Spice Dessert, Italian Pudding, Spiced Chocolate Dessert, Creamy Budino, Chocolate Pudding Recipe