Sweet Blood Pudding (Sanguinaccio Dolce) – An Irresistible Italian Treat
Sanguinaccio dolce, or Sweet Blood Pudding, is a beloved Italian dessert traditionally prepared during the colder months, often around Christmas time. This creamy, rich treat is made with a blend of milk, cocoa, dark chocolate, and sugar, all brought together into a velvety pudding that will satisfy your sweet tooth in the most indulgent way. Traditionally made with pig’s blood in some regions, this modern, adapted version omits that ingredient while keeping all the flavor and texture that make this dessert so special. Here’s a simple recipe to bring this traditional Italian delight to your kitchen.
Category: Desserts
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole milk | 500g |
| Sugar | 200g |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 70g |
| Dark chocolate (roughly chopped) | 100g |
| Cornstarch (Cornflour, Maizena) | 40g |
| Butter | 30g |
| Ground cinnamon | 2g |
Instructions
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: Start by adding sugar and ground cinnamon to a large bowl. Stir them together to combine evenly.
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Prepare the Milk Mixture: Gradually add the cold milk to the sugar and cinnamon mixture, pouring it in slowly while whisking to prevent clumps. Use a whisk to make sure everything is thoroughly blended.
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Heat the Mixture: Pour the milk mixture into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir continuously with a whisk for about 10 minutes, ensuring the mixture thickens evenly. Patience is key here, so keep an eye on it and keep stirring.
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Add Cocoa and Cornstarch: In a separate small bowl, mix the cocoa powder with the cornstarch. Once the milk mixture is hot and beginning to thicken, add the cocoa and cornstarch blend. Keep whisking to dissolve the cocoa completely, creating a smooth, glossy texture.
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Melt the Chocolate: While the pudding is thickening, roughly chop the dark chocolate and set it aside. Once the milk mixture reaches a thicker consistency, add the chopped chocolate to the pot. Stir until the chocolate fully melts into the pudding.
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Finish with Butter: To give the pudding its signature silky texture, add the butter. Stir it in until the mixture becomes shiny and smooth. This is what gives the Sanguinaccio its luscious, rich finish.
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Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the pudding to cool slightly. Pour it into a low, wide serving dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Make sure the plastic wrap is in contact with the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your sweet blood pudding chilled, either as it is or topped with whipped cream, nuts, or a dusting of cocoa powder. This dessert is best enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine. You could also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Sugars | 29g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
Note: The nutritional information is based on the quantities provided in the recipe and is intended for general reference. For more precise calculations, please adjust the ingredients based on your specific needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sanguinaccio dolce is a decadent, creamy dessert that brings a comforting, chocolatey richness perfect for cozy winter evenings or as a festive treat. The smooth texture and warm spices like cinnamon give it a distinct Italian flavor, making it an ideal addition to your dessert repertoire. While the recipe is simple, the result is nothing short of impressive, with a delightful mix of sweet, bitter, and spicy notes that will have you coming back for more.
Whether you’re looking to share an authentic Italian dessert with friends and family or simply indulge in something sweet, Sanguinaccio dolce is sure to satisfy every craving. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a taste of Italy in your very own kitchen!
