Dark Chocolate Pots de Crème Recipe
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of this classic French dessert with our Dark Chocolate Pots de Crème recipe. Creamy, velvety, and rich, these little pots of chocolate delight are perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something decadent. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that will impress your guests. Let’s dive into the preparation of this elegant, yet easy-to-make dessert!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dark Chocolate (chopped) | 100 grams |
| Fresh Cream (25% fat) | 240 ml |
| Caster Sugar | 3 tablespoons |
| Instant Coffee Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | Pinch |
| Egg Yolks | 3 |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Cholesterol | 165 mg |
| Sodium | 45 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 18 g |
Instructions
To create these Dark Chocolate Pots de Crème, follow these steps carefully for a smooth and creamy custard that will melt in your mouth.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking.
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Prepare the Chocolate: Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof mixing bowl. Set it aside for later.
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Heat the Cream Mixture: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the fresh cream, caster sugar, pinch of salt, and instant coffee powder. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the edges of the cream start to bubble gently.
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Combine Cream and Chocolate: Once the cream mixture is ready, pour it over the chopped chocolate. Stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes.
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Mix in Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the cooled chocolate mixture. Whisk together until fully combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to ensure a smooth consistency.
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Fill the Ramekins: Pour the rich chocolate custard into small ramekins or any oven-safe serving bowls. These will hold the custard as it bakes.
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Prepare the Water Bath: Place the ramekins into a larger baking pan. Pour hot water into the outer pan, making sure it comes about halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath will help cook the custard evenly and gently.
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Bake: Place the pan with the ramekins into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The custards are done when the edges are set, but the center is still slightly wobbly.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool. You can refrigerate them if you prefer to serve them chilled or serve them warm.
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Optional Garnish: For a finishing touch, garnish the pots de crème with shaved chocolate, whipped cream, or any topping of your choice.
Tips and Variations
- Flavored Variations: You can infuse additional flavors into your custard by adding a touch of orange zest, cinnamon, or even a bit of liqueur such as Grand Marnier or Chambord to the cream mixture.
- Serving Suggestion: These pots de crème are perfect served after a multi-course French meal, accompanied by a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine.
Conclusion
Dark Chocolate Pots de Crème is a delightful French dessert that combines simple ingredients with a refined presentation. The luscious custard, with its rich chocolate and hint of coffee flavor, creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, this dessert will be the highlight of any occasion. Enjoy the perfect balance of smooth, creamy, and chocolaty goodness in every bite!
