Bonet (Italian chocolate and amaretti pudding)

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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!