Name: Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 large egg yolks; 1 tbsp Dutch-processed cocoa powder; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; ½ tsp Chinese five spice powder*; 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; ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream; ⅛ tsp pure vanilla extract; ½ tbsp powdered sugar; Chocolate shavings

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Get ready to experience pure chocolate bliss with a twist! The Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino takes a classic Italian pudding and gives it a magical, aromatic upgrade with a whisper of Chinese five spice. The result is sumptuously silky, deep chocolate custard with warm, fragrant notes that dance on your tongue—think cinnamon, star anise, and more. This dessert is surprisingly simple to make, yet feels utterly special, perfect for capping an elegant dinner or sneaking as a midnight treat. You’ll fall for its dreamy texture and unforgettable flavor.

Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how an impressive Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino comes together so simply—each ingredient is chosen for its unique contribution to flavor, richness, and that signature smoothness. Don’t skimp here, as every component really does elevate the final result!

4 large egg yolks: These provide the structure and give budino its irresistible creamy texture.
1 tbsp Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor and delivers a rich, fudgy color.
2 tbsp granulated sugar: Sweetens the budino just enough to balance the cocoa’s intensity and the spices’ subtle heat.
½ tsp Chinese five spice powder: The signature star—warming and mysterious, it infuses each bite with a sophisticated perfume.
¼ tsp ground cinnamon: Adds an extra layer of warmth and coziness to the chocolate and spice blend.
1 pinch flaky sea salt: Just a little salt makes all those chocolate and spice notes sing.
⅔ cup (160 ml) whole milk: The base that supports our custard, making sure it’s luscious but never heavy.
⅓ cup (80 ml) heavy cream: Contributes an extra dose of richness for that trademark Italian budino smoothness.
4 oz (120 g) 70% dark chocolate, chopped: The hero! Use the best quality chocolate you can—it’s the star flavor here.
¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream (for whipped cream): Soft, pillowy whipped cream offers contrast and pure luxury as a topping.
⅛ tsp pure vanilla extract (for whipped cream): A splash of vanilla brightens and rounds out the topping.
½ tbsp powdered sugar (for whipped cream): Gently sweetens the cream but keeps things delicate.
Chocolate shavings (for garnish): Because you can never have too much chocolate, and they add visual drama!

How to Make Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Begin by readying your setup: Place a fine mesh sieve over a large bowl. This will make sure your finished budino is the silkiest in town by catching any stray bits of cooked egg. You’ll also need four 5-ounce ramekins on a small baking sheet—having them waiting makes pouring and transporting a breeze.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard Base

In a medium saucepan, combine the egg yolks, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, granulated sugar, five spice powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Whisk until it’s well-blended and smooth. You’ll see the rich color and can already catch hints of the spices’ delicious scent—this step sets up your Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino for greatness.

Step 3: Gently Cook the Custard

Add the whole milk and heavy cream to your egg mixture and place the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk frequently but gently, and keep a close eye—as soon as tiny bubbles appear, whisk constantly. You want the mixture to thicken and coat the back of a spoon—about 4 to 5 minutes. The real test? Run your finger along the back of a coated spoon; if it leaves a clear trail, you’re there.

Step 4: Melt in the Chocolate

Now turn off the heat and immediately add the chopped dark chocolate. Whisk until every bit is melted and the custard looks glossy and seriously tempting. This step unites the velvety, bittersweet chocolate with those cozy spices, really defining the Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino experience.

Step 5: Strain for Ultimate Silkiness

Pour the hot mixture through the prepared fine mesh sieve. Use a spoon or spatula to gently stir and press, coaxing as much pudding through as possible, but stop short of forcing any eggy bits through. Don’t forget to scrape off the underside of the sieve for extra custard—every spoonful is gold!

Step 6: Portion and Chill

Carefully divide your luscious custard into four 5-ounce ramekins on a baking sheet. Give each one a gentle wiggle and tap to even out the tops. Now, the hardest part: chilling in the fridge for at least 3 hours until they’re thoroughly set and impossibly creamy.

Step 7: Whip the Cream

When you’re ready to serve, whip the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This cloud-like topping is the perfect counterbalance to the rich, spiced-chocolate pudding. Dollop generously atop each budino.

Step 8: Add Final Touches

Right before serving, shower your whipped cream with chocolate shavings. This simple flourish makes the Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino restaurant-worthy in looks—and taste.

How to Serve Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino

Garnishes

The classic look is a cloud of whipped cream and a flurry of chocolate shavings, but you could also add a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a twist of candied orange peel for extra flair. These accents complement the deep flavors and make each budino feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair your Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino with a small biscotti or crisp almond cookie. Fresh berries—think raspberries, blackberries, or even a segmented mandarin orange—also add a bright, fruity contrast that cuts through the richness. A tiny espresso or after-dinner liqueur is an elegant touch if you’re feeling truly Italian!

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun: try serving the budino in espresso cups, tiny glass jars, or even hollowed orange halves for a whimsical twist. For gatherings, layer the pudding in shot glasses for easy, passable treats. Line up several garnishes and let guests customize their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover each ramekin tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three days—just add fresh garnishes right before serving for best texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the unadorned budino (skip the whipped cream for now!) for up to a month. Wrap each ramekin tightly with several layers of plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. This makes it easy to enjoy a taste of chocolate paradise anytime.

Reheating

Budino is really best served chilled, but if you prefer a softer, more pudding-like texture, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before eating. Warmed right from the fridge, it’s silkier. Avoid microwaving to preserve its velvet-smooth consistency.

FAQs

What is the difference between budino and pudding?

Budino is Italy’s sophisticated answer to pudding: while both are creamy and comforting, budino is thicker, silkier, and usually boasts richer ingredients and a luxurious, slow-cooked feel that standard pudding often lacks.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! While 70 percent dark chocolate brings incredible depth to Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino, you can use slightly sweeter or more bittersweet chocolate depending on your taste. Don’t go much lower than 60 percent cacao, or it may taste too sweet and lose some complexity.

What can I substitute for Chinese five spice?

If you can’t find Chinese five spice, try a mix of ground cinnamon, star anise, a pinch of cloves, fennel seed, and a whisper of ground black pepper. The balance of sweet, savory, and a little heat is what makes the budino sing.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, cashew, or oat work well) and coconut cream in place of the dairy. Be sure your chocolate is also dairy-free to keep things completely vegan and luscious.

How far in advance can I make Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino?

The budino is actually even better made ahead! It needs at least 3 hours to chill and set, but making it a day in advance lets those gorgeous spices deepen. Just garnish right before serving for the best texture and appearance.

Final Thoughts

From its velvety, rich chocolate base to the surprising and fragrant whisper of spice, Five Spice Dark Chocolate Budino is a true showstopper. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with guests, this recipe promises to turn any meal into a memorable celebration. Go ahead, grab your whisk—your new favorite dessert adventure awaits!