The classic Italian dessert, Bonet! Also known as “Bonnet” in Italian, this rich and creamy pudding is a staple in many Italian bakeries and households. It’s made with chocolate, amaretti cookies, and creamy milk, resulting in a decadent and indulgent treat. Here’s a recipe to make a traditional Bonet:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped
- 1/2 cup amaretti cookies, finely crushed
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the chocolate mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and cocoa powder. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Add the chocolate: Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the amaretti cookies: Stir in the crushed amaretti cookies and let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the cookies have infused their flavor and the mixture has cooled slightly.
- Make the pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add the warm chocolate mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Thicken the pudding: Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook the pudding, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Chill the pudding: Strain the pudding into a clean bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Serve the Bonet chilled, garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired. You can also serve it in individual cups or glasses for a more elegant presentation.
Tips and Variations:
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness of the pudding.
- Experiment with different types of cookies, such as biscotti or cantuccini, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add a splash of liqueur, such as Kahlúa or Baileys, to the pudding for an adult twist.
- Make the pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Italian Tips:
- Bonet is a traditional dessert from the Piedmont region of Italy, where it’s often served at special occasions.
- In Italy, Bonet is often made with amaretti cookies from Saronno, a town in Lombardy famous for its almond-based cookies.
- The name “Bonet” comes from the Italian word for “bonnet,” which refers to the traditional hat worn by Piedmontese women.
Buon appetito!
