Chocolate Pots de Crème Recipe – French Special

Chocolate Pots de Crème are a classic French dessert that offers rich, creamy chocolate indulgence in a small, elegant serving. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat, these custard-like desserts are surprisingly easy to make and can be prepared in advance.

  • Prep Time20 min
  • Cook Time55 min
  • Total Time1 hr 15 min

Chocolate Pots de Crème Ingredients:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 4 oz (115g) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

How to make Chocolate Pots de Crème:

1

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place 4 to 6 small ramekins or custard cups in a baking dish.

2

Heat Cream and Milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, then remove from heat.

3

Melt Chocolate: Add the chopped chocolate to the hot cream mixture and stir until smooth and fully melted.

4

Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

5

Temper Eggs: Slowly pour a small amount of the hot chocolate mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling. Gradually add the remaining chocolate mixture, whisking  ontinuously.

6

Strain Mixture: Pour the combined mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl or pitcher to remove any bits of cooked egg or undissolved chocolate.

7

Fill Ramekins: Divide the chocolate mixture evenly among the ramekins.

8

Bake: Carefully add hot water to the baking dish, ensuring it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

9

Cool: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Recipe Notes:

Chocolate Choice: Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Semisweet or bittersweet are both good options, depending on how rich you want your pots de crème.

Straining: Straining the mixture helps achieve a smooth texture by eliminating any curdled bits.

Serving Suggestions: Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor and presentation.