Decadent Chocolate Cream Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 box of gelatin
• 1/2 pint of cold water
• 1 quart of milk
• 2 ounces of high-quality chocolate (e.g., Ghirardelli or Lindt)
• 4 tablespoons of sugar
• 2 tablespoons of boiling water
• 5 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
• 1/2 saltspoon of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin

1. Soak Gelatin: In a small bowl, soak one box of gelatin in 1/2 pint of cold water for two hours. This allows the gelatin to fully hydrate and dissolve more easily later.

Step 2: Heat the Milk

1. Warm the Milk: Pour 1 quart of milk into a double boiler and place it over medium heat. Allow the milk to heat gradually, ensuring it doesn't scorch.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

1. Melt Chocolate: Shave 2 ounces of high-quality chocolate and place it in a small pan. Add 4 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of boiling water. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it becomes smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Combine Chocolate and Milk

1. Mix Chocolate and Milk: Gradually stir the melted chocolate mixture into the hot milk. Continue stirring until fully combined.

Step 5: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. Beat Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, beat the yolks of 5 eggs with 1/2 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add Gelatin: Stir the soaked gelatin into the egg mixture until well combined.

Step 6: Cook the Mixture

1. Combine and Cook: Slowly pour the egg and gelatin mixture into the hot milk and chocolate mixture, stirring constantly. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, ensuring the mixture thickens but does not boil.

Step 7: Add Flavorings

1. Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1/2 saltspoon of salt.

Step 8: Strain and Mold

1. Strain and Pour: Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps. Pour the smooth mixture into molds that have been rinsed with cold water.

Step 9: Chill and Serve

1. Chill: Place the molds in the refrigerator and allow the chocolate cream to set and harden for several hours.
2. Serve: Once set, serve the chocolate cream with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of sugar for added sweetness.

Interesting Facts and Stats

• Chocolate Consumption: The average American consumes approximately 9.5 pounds of chocolate per year (Statista, 2021).
• Gelatin Usage: Gelatin is not only used in desserts but also in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics due to its gelling properties (Gelatin Manufacturers Institute of America).
• Egg Yolks: Egg yolks are rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, making them a nutritious addition to desserts (USDA).

Sources

• Statista
• Gelatin Manufacturers Institute of America
• USDA

By following these steps, you can create a luxurious chocolate cream dessert that is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this delightful treat!