Chocolate Pots de Crème is a decadent French dessert that offers a luxurious, silky-smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor. Served chilled in small ramekins or elegant glasses, these rich custards are the perfect finale to a refined meal. Finished with delicate chocolate curls, each spoonful melts on the tongue for a truly indulgent experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert is a celebration of rich, dark chocolate and velvety cream, with a texture that is both delicate and satisfying. Despite its impressive presentation, Chocolate Pots de Crème are relatively easy to prepare. The use of quality ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with deep, complex flavor. It’s a wonderful make-ahead option for dinner parties or romantic evenings.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- dark chocolate (60–70% cacao), chopped
- heavy cream
- whole milk
- egg yolks
- granulated sugar
- pure vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- chocolate curls or shavings, for topping
directions
- Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat gently over medium heat until the mixture just begins to simmer. Remove from the heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and salt together until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.
- Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (approximately 170°F or 77°C).
- Pour the hot custard over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 1 minute. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Divide the mixture into small ramekins or glass cups. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Just before serving, top each pot de crème with chocolate curls or shavings for an elegant finish.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Variations
- Espresso Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the chocolate’s depth.
- Citrus Zest: Stir in orange or lemon zest for a bright contrast to the rich custard.
- Liqueur Twist: Add a splash of Grand Marnier, Amaretto, or Irish cream for an adult version.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate for a non-dairy version.
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a warm, exotic touch.
storage/reheating
Chocolate Pots de Crème can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator.
Do not freeze, as the texture will be negatively affected.
Reheating is not necessary; they are best enjoyed cold.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but it will result in a sweeter and less intense flavor. Adjust the sugar as needed.
Do I need to strain the custard?
It’s optional but recommended for the smoothest texture. Use a fine mesh sieve before pouring into ramekins.
How do I make chocolate curls?
Use a vegetable peeler on a bar of room-temperature chocolate to create delicate shavings.
Can I use half-and-half instead of cream and milk?
Yes, though the result may be slightly less rich and creamy.
How do I know when the custard is ready?
The custard is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and reaches around 170°F (77°C).
Can this dessert be made ahead?
Absolutely. It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert as it needs time to chill and set.
What can I serve with Pots de Crème?
Try with a small biscuit, shortbread cookie, or a few fresh raspberries for added texture.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free when made with gluten-free chocolate.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and ensure even portioning and chilling.
What is the difference between Pots de Crème and pudding?
Pots de Crème are richer and smoother, traditionally made with a higher proportion of cream and baked or chilled without starch thickeners.
Conclusion
Chocolate Pots de Crème is a sophisticated dessert that showcases the luxurious depth of dark chocolate in a beautifully creamy form. With minimal ingredients and a simple technique, it offers an indulgent, restaurant-quality experience at home. Serve it at your next gathering or as a quiet indulgence—you won’t be disappointed.
Print
Chocolate Pots de Crème
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilled
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
An indulgent, ultra-smooth French dessert made with rich dark chocolate and cream, served chilled in elegant cups and topped with delicate chocolate curls.
Ingredients
- 6 oz dark chocolate (60-70% cacao), chopped
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Chocolate curls or shavings, for topping
Instructions
- Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and milk. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and salt until pale. Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon (about 170°F/77°C).
- Pour the hot custard over the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until completely smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour into small ramekins or glass cups. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Before serving, top with chocolate curls or shavings for a luxurious finish.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor and texture.
- Ensure constant stirring while cooking the custard to avoid curdling.
- Can be made 1–2 days in advance for convenience.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream or berries for extra elegance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pot
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
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