For chocolate lovers seeking a rich and indulgent treat, Decadent Chocolate Pots de Crème are the ultimate dessert. These French-inspired custards are silky, creamy, and intensely chocolatey, making them perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or a luxurious personal indulgence.
With a few simple ingredients and careful preparation, you can achieve a dessert that looks impressive and tastes extraordinary, rivaling any fine dining experience.
Ingredients
Serves 6–8
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
- 6 ounces (170g) bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional garnish: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30–35 minutes
- Cooling and chilling: 2–3 hours
- Total time: About 3 hours 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ramekins
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place six 4-ounce ramekins in a deep baking dish.
Step 2: Heat Cream and Milk
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and milk.
- Heat over medium heat until just simmering; do not boil.
Step 3: Melt Chocolate
- Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- Pour hot cream mixture over the chocolate and let sit for 1–2 minutes.
- Stir until smooth and fully melted.
Step 4: Prepare Custard Mixture
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Slowly pour the chocolate mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
Step 5: Strain and Pour
- Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to ensure a silky texture.
- Pour evenly into the prepared ramekins.
Step 6: Bake in Water Bath
- Carefully pour hot water into the baking dish, coming halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the custard is set but slightly wobbly in the center.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
- Remove ramekins from water bath and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled in elegant ramekins for a classic presentation.
- Pair with espresso or a dessert wine for a refined dessert course.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a salted chocolate variation.
- Garnish with candied nuts for added texture.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 ramekin) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 6 grams |
| Total Fat | 24 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 22 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 70 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Chocolate provides antioxidants and a rich flavor profile.
- Egg yolks and cream create the smooth, velvety texture and provide protein and fats.
- Moderation is key, as this dessert is rich but highly satisfying.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Pots de Crème
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Ensure the cream is hot but not boiling to prevent curdling.
- Whisk continuously when adding chocolate to eggs for a smooth custard.
- Straining the custard ensures the texture is silky and luxurious.
Variations to Try
- Add a splash of espresso or coffee liqueur for a mocha twist.
- Mix in orange zest or chili powder for subtle flavor variations.
- Top with a layer of caramel sauce for a decadent salted caramel chocolate version.
- Incorporate white chocolate or milk chocolate for a sweeter, milder custard.
These Decadent Chocolate Pots de Crème are a luxurious and indulgent dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the smoothness of a French custard. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a personal treat, this recipe is simple to follow yet delivers an elegant, restaurant-quality dessert experience.
Whether kept classic or customized with creative toppings, these pots de crème offer a perfect balance of richness, sweetness, and silky texture that will satisfy any chocolate craving.