Polenta Budino With Plum Marmellata

Make the polenta:

Step 1

Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Whisking constantly, gradually add polenta; whisk until smooth. Reduce heat to low and cook polenta, whisking and breaking up any lumps, until thickened, about 3 minutes. Whisk in granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt (mixture will loosen) and cook, whisking often, until mixture thickens again and polenta is tender, 20–25 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in butter.

Step 2

Whisk egg yolk and cream in a small bowl to combine, then vigorously whisk into polenta. Transfer mixture to a large bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing directly onto surface. Let cool.

Make the marmellata:

Step 3

Bring sugar, lemon juice, salt, and half of plums to a simmer in a medium saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until mixture is thickened and some of the fruit is starting to fall apart, 10–15 minutes.

Step 4

Mix half of the remaining plums into marmellata and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but still holding their shape, 5 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in remaining plums. Cover marmellata and let cool.

To assemble:

Step 5

Stir polenta to loosen and smooth out any lumps. Spoon into bowls and top each serving with some marmellata and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Do Ahead

Step 6

Polenta can be made 2 days ahead. Chill. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Marmellata can be made 3 days ahead. Chill.