Crème Caramel, a classic French dessert, is renowned for its silky texture and rich, caramelized flavor. This elegant custard dessert features a layer of golden caramel atop a smooth, creamy base, making it a timeless favorite. The traditional recipe provides a perfect canvas for creative variations. And one such twist is incorporating chocolate and coffee, elevating this classic to new heights. Making Crème Caramel with chocolate and coffee introduces a depth of sophisticated and indulgent flavor. Adding cocoa lends a rich, velvety quality to the custard, satisfying even the most intense chocolate cravings. On the other hand, coffee adds a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness of the caramel and enhances the overall flavor profile. This combination creates a unique, decadent, and complex blend, appealing to dessert lovers and coffee aficionados alike. This variation adds a contemporary twist to a beloved classic and also offers a delightful way to enjoy the complementary flavors of chocolate and coffee. Whether for a special occasion or an indulgent treat, Chocolate Coffee Crème Caramel is a dessert that promises to impress and delight.
Why is this the best recipe?
Balanced Flavor Profile: The combination of rich chocolate, creamy custard, and a hint of coffee creates a sophisticated and well-rounded flavor that delights the palate. Perfect Caramelization: The homemade caramel layer adds a deep, slightly bitter sweetness that perfectly complements the smooth and creamy custard, enhancing the overall taste experience. Smooth Texture: The careful blending of milk, cream, and eggs results in a custard that is incredibly smooth and silky, providing a luxurious mouthfeel with every bite. Simple Yet Elegant: Despite its sophisticated appearance and flavor, this recipe is straightforward and accessible. Thus making it easy for both novice and experienced bakers to achieve impressive results. Versatility: The recipe allows for customization, such as adjusting the coffee intensity or omitting it altogether for a pure chocolate flavor, making it adaptable to different tastes. Impressive Presentation: The contrast of the dark caramel topping with the creamy chocolate custard makes for an elegant dessert that is sure to impress guests at any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients and substitutes
Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and helps achieve a smooth texture for the custard. You can also use half-and-half (for a richer custard) or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. However, it will alter the flavor and texture slightly. Heavy Cream: Provides richness and a velvety texture to the custard. You can use coconut cream (which adds a subtle coconut flavor) or evaporated milk (less rich but workable) as a substitute. Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the custard and provides the base for the caramel, giving a rich, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor once caramelized. You can also use brown sugar (which will provide a deeper, molasses-like flavor), honey or maple syrup (which will alter the taste and texture slightly), or agave syrup (use less as it’s sweeter than sugar). Egg Yolks: Add richness and help thicken the custard. You can also substitute with additional whole eggs (which will alter the texture slightly) or egg replacers like flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water (for a vegan option, but will change the texture). Whole Eggs: Provide structure and help set the custard. You can use egg replacers like silken tofu or a commercial egg substitute (for a vegan option, but it will change the texture) as substitutes. Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor and enhances the overall taste of the custard. You can also use vanilla bean paste (more intense flavor) or almond extract (different flavor profile). Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds chocolate flavor to the custard. You can substitute with melted dark chocolate (adjust the amount and reduce sugar) or carob powder (similar but slightly different flavor). Instant Coffee Granules: Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a hint of coffee for a mocha taste. You can also use espresso powder (stronger flavor), decaffeinated coffee granules (same flavor without the caffeine), or omit for a pure chocolate flavor.
Step-by-step: Chocolate creme caramel
Preheat your oven to 325°F /160°C/ Gas mark 3.
Prepare the caramel: Combine the sugar, lemon juice, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, stop stirring and allow it to boil until it turns a deep amber color. Caramel base: Carefully pour the hot caramel into the bottom of each 6 oz ramekin, tilting to cover the base evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
Cocoa mixture: In a small bowl, combine the cocoa powder and instant coffee (if using). Whisk until smooth and well combined. Set aside to cool completely. Heat the milk/cream: In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until just about to boil. Remove from heat. Egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. Custard mixture: Gradually whisk the hot milk mixture into the eggs, stirring constantly to avoid curdling. Finally, add the cocoa mixture and combine well. Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl with a spout. Assemble: Pour the strained custard over the caramel in the ramekins. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish. Then, pour hot water into the baking dish to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake: Carefully transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Unmold: To unmold, run a knife around the edge of each ramekin. Place a serving plate on top of the ramekin and invert it to release the crème caramel onto the plate. Serve chilled, and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Caramelization Timing: Watch the sugar closely while it caramelizes. It can go from perfect to burnt very quickly. Aim for a deep amber color, not too light or too dark. This ensures a perfect balance of sweetness and slight bitterness in the caramel. Uniform Caramel Layer: Swirl the ramekins immediately after pouring the caramel to evenly coat the bottom before it hardens. Doing so provides a consistent caramel layer that releases easily when unmolded. Smooth Custard: Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any egg solids or lumps of cocoa powder. This results in a silky-smooth custard texture. Even Baking: Use a water bath (bain-marie) to bake the custards. Place the ramekins in a baking dish and pour hot water around them, reaching halfway up the sides. Doing so ensures gentle, even cooking and prevents the custard from curdling or cracking. Temperature Control: Preheat the oven to the correct temperature and avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking. This maintains a stable baking environment, ensuring the custard sets properly. Proper Cooling: Allow the custards to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before unmolding. This ensures the custard is fully set and allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a perfect texture and taste. Careful Unmolding: Run a thin knife around the edge of each custard before inverting it onto a plate. Give the ramekin a gentle shake to help release the custard. It prevents the custard from sticking to the ramekin, ensuring a clean and elegant presentation. Flavor Adjustments: Taste the custard mixture before baking and adjust sweetness or flavorings (like coffee or cocoa) as needed. It allows for customization to suit personal taste preferences.
Creamy Caramel Filling for Cakes Tarts DessertsHow to Make an Easy Baked Chocolate Custard TartCustard Cookies: A Sweet Twist on Classic ShortbreadMaster the Art of Homemade Caramels from Start to FinishThe Perfect Custard Cake Filling for Every Occasion
Frequently asked questions
Apricot Flan Recipe: Creme Caramel: A Must-Try Dessert Creme Caramel, Secret Ingredient for the Creamiest Creme Brûlée You’ll Ever Taste Pumpkin Creme Brûlée, Apricot Creme Brûlée Recipe
Creative variations
Mocha Crème Caramel: Enhance the coffee flavor by using a double amount of instant coffee granules or adding a shot of espresso to the custard mixture. Creates a rich mocha flavor that complements the chocolate. Salted Caramel Chocolate Crème Caramel: Sprinkle a small amount of sea salt over the caramel layer before pouring the custard. Adds a sophisticated contrast of sweet and salty flavors. Chocolate Orange Crème Caramel: Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest and 1 tablespoon of orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier) to the custard mixture. Introduces a refreshing citrus note that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Mint Chocolate Crème Caramel: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the custard mixture. Provides a cool, refreshing mint flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate. Coconut Chocolate Crème Caramel: Substitute half of the milk with coconut milk and add a few drops of coconut extract to the custard mixture. Introduces a tropical coconut flavor that adds richness and depth to the dessert. Hazelnut Chocolate Crème Caramel: Add 1/4 cup of finely ground hazelnuts to the custard mixture and use hazelnut liqueur (such as Frangelico) instead of vanilla extract. Adds a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate and caramel.
Creative ways to serve chocolate creme caramel
With Fresh Berries: Serve the chocolate crème caramel with a side of fresh berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. Garnish with a sprig of mint for a pop of color. Adds a fresh, fruity contrast to the rich, creamy custard, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Topped with Whipped Cream and Shaved Chocolate: Top each crème caramel with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and sprinkle with shaved dark chocolate or chocolate curls. Provides an additional layer of decadence and visual appeal, making the dessert even more indulgent. With a Coffee or Espresso Shot: Serve alongside a small cup of strong coffee or a shot of espresso. Garnish the plate with a few coffee beans for a sophisticated touch. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the crème caramel, creating a perfect balance of flavors. With a Caramel Drizzle and Sea Salt: Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt. Enhances the caramel flavor and adds a delightful salty-sweet contrast, elevating the overall taste experience. Layered in a Dessert Parfait: Layer pieces of the chocolate crème caramel with whipped cream, crushed cookies, and fruit compote in a clear parfait glass. Creates a visually stunning dessert with multiple textures and flavors in each bite, perfect for a special occasion. With a Scoop of Ice Cream: Serve the crème caramel with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream on the side. Garnish with chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the smooth, room-temperature custard, adding another layer of indulgence to the dessert.
Did you LIKE this recipe? Save it for later. You can find my recipes on Pinterest. Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.Subscribe, and I’ll send you new recipes right to your inbox. Thank you for sharing - Save for later
