Decadent Chocolate Cream Renversée Recipe

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

• 1 quart of milk
• 7 large eggs
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 ounce of high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
• Whipped cream for serving

Preparation Steps

1. Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a double boiler and heat it gently over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling.
2. Prepare the Chocolate: Finely shave the chocolate and place it in a small saucepan with 3 tablespoons of sugar and 1 tablespoon of boiling water. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
3. Combine Chocolate and Milk: Gradually stir the melted chocolate into the hot milk. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool.
4. Caramelize the Sugar: Place 3 tablespoons of sugar in a charlotte mold (or any mold that holds slightly more than a quart). Heat the mold on the stove until the sugar melts and begins to caramelize. Swirl the mold to coat it evenly with the caramel, then set it aside to cool.
5. Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the remaining sugar, eggs, and salt until well combined. Slowly add the cooled milk and chocolate mixture, stirring continuously. Optionally, add vanilla extract for extra flavor.
6. Strain and Bake: Strain the mixture into the caramel-coated mold. Place the mold in a deep baking pan and fill the pan with tepid water until it reaches nearly to the top of the mold. Bake in a preheated moderate oven (350°F or 175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is firm in the center. Test by inserting a knife; if it comes out clean, the custard is done.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the custard to cool completely, then refrigerate until icy-cold. To serve, invert the mold onto a flat dish and garnish with whipped cream flavored with sugar and vanilla.

Interesting Stats and Tips

Chocolate Consumption

• Global Chocolate Market: The global chocolate market was valued at approximately $130 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $187 billion by 2027 (source: Statista).
• Health Benefits: Dark chocolate, particularly those with 70% cocoa or higher, is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to improved heart health and reduced inflammation (source: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health).

Baking Tips

• Double Boiler: Using a double boiler prevents the milk from scorching and ensures even heating.
• Caramelization: Be cautious when caramelizing sugar; it can quickly go from perfect to burnt. Swirl the mold gently to coat evenly.
• Water Bath: The water bath (bain-marie) helps to cook the custard evenly and prevents it from cracking.

Conclusion

Creating Chocolate Cream Renversée is a rewarding culinary experience that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and caramel with the smooth texture of custard. By following these detailed steps and tips, you can master this classic dessert and impress your guests with a truly decadent treat. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of this delightful creation!

This article provides a comprehensive guide to making Chocolate Cream Renversée, enriched with interesting statistics and practical tips. For more information on the health benefits of dark chocolate, visit the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.