Decadent Baked Chocolate Custard Recipe

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

For five small custards, you will need:

• 1 pint of milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ounce of high-quality dark chocolate (preferably 70% cocoa)
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1-inch piece of stick cinnamon
• 5 tablespoons of sugar (divided)
• 1 tablespoon of boiling water

Preparation Steps

1. Infuse the Milk:

   • Place the milk and cinnamon stick in a double boiler.
   • Heat over medium flame for about 10 minutes to infuse the milk with the cinnamon flavor.

2. Prepare the Chocolate Mixture:

   • Shave the chocolate finely.
   • In a small pan, combine the shaved chocolate, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of boiling water.
   • Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

3. Combine Milk and Chocolate:

   • Remove the cinnamon stick from the milk.
   • Stir the chocolate mixture into the hot milk until well combined.
   • Allow the mixture to cool.

4. Prepare the Custard Base:

   • In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar and salt.
   • Gradually add the cooled milk mixture to the eggs, stirring constantly.
   • Strain the mixture to ensure a smooth custard.

5. Bake the Custards:

   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
   • Pour the custard mixture into small oven-safe cups.
   • Place the cups in a deep baking pan and fill the pan with tepid water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cups.
   • Bake for about 30 minutes or until the custards are set in the center. Test by inserting a knife; if it comes out clean, the custard is done.

6. Serve:

   • Allow the custards to cool completely.
   • Serve chilled for the best flavor.

Nutritional Information

Interesting Facts

• Chocolate Consumption: The average American consumes approximately 9.5 pounds of chocolate per year (source: Statista).
• Custard Origins: Custard dates back to the Middle Ages and was originally used as a filling for pies and tarts (source: BBC).

Tips for Perfect Custard

• Temperature Control: Ensure the milk mixture is cooled before adding to the eggs to prevent curdling.
• Water Bath: The water bath helps in even cooking and prevents the custard from cracking.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate for a richer flavor.

Conclusion

Baked chocolate custard is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. By following these steps and tips, you can create a dessert that is both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy this treat with loved ones and savor the rich, creamy texture that only a well-made custard can offer.

For more dessert recipes and culinary tips, visit Epicurious and Bon Appétit.