Ingredients:

– 500ml (2 cups) heavy cream

– 100g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate, finely chopped

– 6 large egg yolks

– 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar, plus extra for caramelizing

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Place six ramekins or oven-safe dishes in a deep baking tray.

2. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate to the cream. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and incorporated into the cream. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale and creamy.

4. Gradually pour the warm chocolate cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously. This is called tempering and helps prevent the eggs from curdling.

5. Once fully combined, strain the custard mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps or egg solids.

6. Divide the custard evenly among the prepared ramekins or dishes.

7. Place the baking tray with the filled ramekins in the preheated oven. Carefully pour hot water into the baking tray to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins, creating a water bath.

8. Bake the crème brûlée for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still jiggle slightly when gently shaken.

9. Remove the baking tray from the oven and carefully transfer the ramekins to a wire rack to cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until fully chilled and set.

10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the top of each crème brûlée. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden brown crust. Alternatively, you can place the ramekins under a preheated broiler for a few minutes until the sugar caramelizes.

11. Allow the caramelized sugar to harden for a minute before serving.

12. Serve the Chocolate Crème Brûlée immediately and enjoy the luscious combination of creamy chocolate custard with a crunchy caramelized sugar topping.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to the luxurious experience of Chocolate Crème Brûlée – a perfect dessert for any special occasion!