Chocolate Crème Brûlée

Chocolate Crème Brûlée Recipe - Vegetarian French Dessert

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Chocolate Crème Brûlée is a decadent and creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the classic custard base of a traditional crème brûlée. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a sophisticated and indulgent treat.

History

Crème brûlée, which translates to "burnt cream" in French, is a classic dessert that dates back to the 17th century. The first recorded recipe for crème brûlée appeared in a French cookbook in 1691. Over the years, this dessert has evolved and been adapted in various ways, including the addition of chocolate to create a unique and delicious twist on the traditional recipe.

Ingredients

Custard

2 cups whipping cream
1 tbsp vanilla extract
3 oz (85 g) semisweet chocolate, chopped
6 egg yolks
6 tbsp sugar (brown or white only)

Topping

3 tbsp sugar (white only or 5 tsp muscovado)
3 tbsp firmly packed brown sugar

How to prepare

Custard

Place the cream in a heavy, medium saucepan.
Bring it to a simmer and then remove it from the heat.
Add the vanilla extract and chocolate, and stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until well blended.
Slowly whisk the hot chocolate cream into the egg yolk mixture.
Let it cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes.
Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 300°F (149°C).
Arrange six 0.5 cup ramekins or custard cups in a shallow baking pan.
Divide the cooled chocolate mixture among the ramekins.
Pour enough hot water into the baking pan to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
Bake until the custards are just set, about 40 minutes.
Cool the custards on racks (they can be prepared 1 day ahead; cover tightly and refrigerate). Serve them cold and plain or with a sugar-based topping.

Topping

Preheat the broiler.
Mix the sugars together.
Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the custard in an even layer.
Place the ramekins on a baking sheet.
Broil them 2 inches away from the heat source just until the sugar melts and begins to caramelize.
Let them stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

Try using different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, for a unique flavor profile.
Add a splash of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Kahlua, to the custard mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Experiment with different toppings, such as crushed nuts or caramel sauce, to customize the dessert to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor in this recipe.

- When melting the chocolate into the cream, be sure to stir constantly to prevent the chocolate from burning.

- To achieve the perfect custard texture, bake the custards until they are just set - they should still have a slight jiggle in the center.

- When caramelizing the sugar topping, keep a close eye on the custards to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chocolate Crème Brûlée cold, either plain or with a sugar-based topping. Garnish with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a successful Chocolate Crème Brûlée is to bake the custards in a water bath to ensure even cooking and a smooth texture. Be sure to cool the custards completely before caramelizing the sugar topping under the broiler.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use milk or half-and-half in place of the whipping cream for a lighter version of this dessert.

- Substitute the semisweet chocolate with milk or dark chocolate, depending on your preference.

Make Ahead Tips

Chocolate Crème Brûlée can be prepared up to a day in advance. Simply cover the custards tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve. Add the sugar topping and caramelize it under the broiler just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chocolate Crème Brûlée in elegant ramekins or custard cups for a sophisticated presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chocolate Crème Brûlée with a rich dessert wine, such as a late-harvest Riesling or a tawny port, to complement the sweet and creamy flavors of the dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chocolate Crème Brûlée in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the custards in a preheated oven at 300°F (149°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chocolate Crème Brûlée contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chocolate Crème Brûlée contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chocolate Crème Brûlée contains approximately 30 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chocolate Crème Brûlée contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chocolate Crème Brûlée is a rich source of calcium, vitamin D, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream and egg yolks) and chocolate, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Chocolate Crème Brûlée is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Chocolate Crème Brûlée is a luxurious and indulgent dessert that combines the creamy texture of a classic crème brûlée with the rich flavor of chocolate. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a decadent and satisfying sweet treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Chocolate Crème Brûlée. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to spend the afternoon flipping through my collection of old cookbooks in search of new inspiration. As I turned the pages of an old French cookbook that I had picked up at a flea market years ago, I stumbled upon the recipe that would soon become one of my all-time favorites.

The recipe called for a rich and creamy chocolate custard base, topped with a crunchy layer of caramelized sugar. It seemed like the perfect combination of decadence and elegance, and I knew that I had to try my hand at making it.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients from my pantry and set to work in the kitchen. As I melted the dark chocolate and whisked together the eggs and sugar, the aroma of cocoa filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I poured the mixture into individual ramekins and placed them in the oven to bake, the scent of chocolate growing stronger with each passing minute.

After the custards had cooled, I sprinkled a thin layer of sugar over the tops and pulled out my trusty kitchen torch. With a steady hand, I caramelized the sugar until it formed a crisp, golden crust. The contrast of the silky chocolate custard and the crunchy caramelized sugar was simply divine.

I couldn't wait to share my creation with my family and friends. As they took their first bites of the Chocolate Crème Brûlée, their eyes widened in delight, and murmurs of approval filled the room. They all agreed that it was a dessert fit for royalty, and I basked in the warm glow of their praise.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my tastes. I have added a touch of espresso powder for a hint of bitterness, or a splash of liqueur for a boozy kick. However, no matter how many times I make it, the joy of creating something so decadent and delicious never fades.

I learned the art of cooking from my own grandmother, who was a master in the kitchen. She taught me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients, and the value of patience and attention to detail. It was from her that I learned to appreciate the simple pleasure of a well-cooked meal, and the joy of sharing it with loved ones.

In addition to my grandmother's teachings, I have also picked up recipes and techniques from various places and people over the years. Whether it be a neighbor's secret recipe for the perfect pie crust, or a cooking class I took while on vacation, I have always been eager to learn and expand my culinary repertoire.

The recipe for Chocolate Crème Brûlée holds a special place in my heart, as it represents not only my love for cooking but also the joy of discovery and experimentation in the kitchen. It is a dish that never fails to impress, and one that I will continue to make for years to come.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the warmth of my kitchen and the aroma of chocolate and caramelized sugar, I am reminded of the simple pleasure that cooking brings. It is a way to express creativity, to show love and care for others, and to create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

And so, I will continue to cook and create, to experiment and innovate, always seeking out new recipes and flavors to delight and inspire. For me, cooking is not just a hobby or a necessity – it is a way of life, a way of connecting with others and with myself, and a way of bringing joy and happiness into the world, one dish at a time.