Name: Salted Caramel Budino Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 3 h 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 cup whole milk (room temperature; divided into ¼ cup and ¾ cup portions); 1¼ cups heavy cream (room temperature); 1 cup cane sugar; 3 large egg yolks (room temperature); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon sea salt (plus more for garnish); 1 cup cane sugar; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); ½ cup heavy cream (room temperature); 1 teaspoon sea salt

Print Recipe·4 from 7 reviews

If you adore the silky richness of classic Italian puddings, then this Salted Caramel Budino Recipe is about to become your new go-to dessert. Imagine a luxuriously creamy custard that’s perfectly set, infused with deep vanilla and a flirty hint of sea salt, all crowned by a luscious, golden salted caramel sauce that dances between sweet and savory. This indulgent treat is irresistibly smooth and delivers a harmony of flavors that feels both comforting and elegantly sophisticated. Trust me, once you make this Salted Caramel Budino Recipe at home, you’ll want to share it with everyone you love—because this dessert just brings people together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls and two glass measuring cups placed on a white marbled surface. There are seven small bowls of different ingredients arranged neatly: one with white sea salt flakes, one with dark brown vanilla extract, one with white powdery cornstarch, one filled with fine white cane sugar, one bowl contains yellow cubes of unsalted butter, and a cluster of three whole brown egg yolks resting directly on the surface. On the right side, two glass measuring cups hold white whole milk and a thick white heavy cream, both with red measurement markings. The scene is well-lit, clean, and organized, showing the ingredients clearly from above. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a memorable dessert. Each plays a crucial role in building the budino’s rich texture and complex flavor, from the creaminess of the heavy cream to the deep sweetness of cane sugar and the bright hint of sea salt that perfectly balances the caramel.

Cornstarch: Acts as the thickening agent, giving the budino its signature pudding-like consistency.
Whole milk: Provides a smooth, creamy base while helping balance richness and lightness.
Heavy cream: Enhances the luxuriously creamy texture and body of the budino.
Cane sugar: Delivers a clean, caramel-friendly sweetness perfect for both the custard and sauce.
Egg yolks: Bring richness and help thicken the custard with that classic velvety finish.
Unsalted butter: Adds depth and silkiness when folded into the custard and caramel sauce.
Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
Sea salt: A pinch in the custard and a sprinkle at the end heighten the sweetness and add a subtle savory note.

How to Make Salted Caramel Budino Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

Start by whisking together the cornstarch with ¼ cup of whole milk until you have a smooth slurry. This simple mixture is essential because it will gently thicken the pudding without lumps, creating that perfect creamy texture that defines a great budino.

Step 2: Heat the Milk, Cream, and Sugar

In a medium saucepan, combine the rest of the milk, heavy cream, and cane sugar, then heat over medium until it just begins to simmer. Stir occasionally so the sugar dissolves fully, giving your budino that beautifully sweet foundation.

Step 3: Whisk and Temper the Egg Yolks

While the milk mixture is heating, whisk the egg yolks until smooth and uniform. To prevent curdling, gradually temper the yolks by slowly whisking in half a cup of the hot milk mixture, then slowly return it all to the pan—a crucial step for silky, lump-free custard.

Step 4: Add Cornstarch and Thicken the Budino

Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking the mixture on medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes. You’re looking for a thick pudding-like consistency and a temperature of at least 160℉ to ensure everything is perfectly cooked and safe.

Step 5: Strain and Finish the Budino

Once thickened, strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve to eliminate any lumps. Then whisk in the softened butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt, which adds that subtle pop of flavor that makes this budino unforgettable.

Step 6: Chill the Budino

Divide the budino into glasses or ramekins, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours. This chilling time allows the dessert to set beautifully, creating the classic firm yet creamy texture you’re craving.

Step 7: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Once your budino is chilling, it’s time to create the glorious caramel topping. Carefully melt the cane sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a rich amber color. Then whisk in the butter and heavy cream cautiously—expect vigorous bubbling—and finish with sea salt. Let it cool until pourable but not cold, preparing the perfect drizzle.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

After your budino has set, generously drizzle the salted caramel sauce on top, and add a sprinkle of sea salt for that final savory crunch. Serve immediately and get ready for the compliments to roll in.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Budino Recipe

A metal pot sits on a stove with a smooth, creamy pale yellow sauce inside. A black whisk with a silver handle rests in the pot, gently stirring the sauce. Above the pot, a woman's hand holds a silver spoon filled with the same thick, yellow sauce, showing its texture closely. The stove surface and background have been replaced with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The right garnish brings this rich dessert alive: a few flakes of sea salt highlight the salted caramel’s magic, while chopped toasted pecans or a sprinkle of finely chopped chocolate adds delightful texture contrast. Whipped cream’s lightness is a welcome guest if you want to mellow the richness.

Side Dishes

Pair your Salted Caramel Budino Recipe with fresh seasonal fruit like ripe figs or tart raspberries to cut through the richness. A simple espresso or a glass of dessert wine also complements the flavors beautifully, turning your dessert into a complete sensory experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your budino in elegant petite glasses or rustic ramekins for a cozy vibe. For a touch of whimsy, layer the budino with whipped cream and bits of caramelized nuts in a trifle dish, or pipe the custard into chocolate cups, making every bite extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Salted Caramel Budino Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, for up to 3 days. The texture and flavor only deepen as it rests, but try to enjoy it fresh for the best experience.

Freezing

Since budino is delicate, freezing is not ideal—it can alter the creamy texture. If you must freeze, do so without the caramel sauce, using an airtight container for up to 1 month, then thaw slowly in the fridge overnight. Add fresh caramel just before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your budino slightly warm, reheat gently over a double boiler or in the microwave at low power for short bursts. Avoid overheating to prevent curdling. The caramel sauce should always be served at room temperature or cooler to keep its perfect pourable texture.

FAQs

Can I use another type of sugar for the caramel sauce?

While cane sugar gives this salted caramel its clean sweetness and color, you can experiment with white granulated sugar, though the flavor might be slightly different. Avoid using brown sugar as it can change the texture and fermentation of the caramel.

What’s the best way to avoid lumps in the budino?

Tempering the egg yolks carefully and straining the custard through a fine sieve are your best bets. Whisking constantly and cooking over moderate heat also help maintain a smooth, creamy pudding.

How salty should the salted caramel be?

A balanced pinch of sea salt enhances the sweetness without overpowering it. Start with the recommended amount in the recipe, then adjust to taste, sprinkled lightly over the finished dish for that perfect sweet-salty harmony.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut milk or almond cream for the dairy, but note that the texture and flavor will shift slightly. The custard may be less creamy, so adding a small amount of dairy-free butter can help replicate richness.

How long does the Salted Caramel Budino Recipe take to set?

The budino needs at least 3 hours in the refrigerator to set firmly and develop its luscious texture. For best results, leaving it overnight enhances the depth of flavor even further.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Budino Recipe is a captivating blend of creamy custard and rich caramel that’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to special celebrations. It’s a dessert that feels both timeless and luxurious, yet simple enough to make at home with ingredients you likely have on hand. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite you’ll crave again and again.

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