CHOCOLATE CUSTARD RECIPES

Steps:

• Beat eggs and vanilla extract together in a medium bowl until combined; set aside.
• Whisk milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, brandy, and salt together in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until boiling and thickened, 6 to 8 minutes. Reduce heat to low.
• Slowly pour 1/2 of the milk mixture into the beaten eggs while stirring; pour mixture back into the saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until thick, 2 to 3 minutes. Do not boil.
• Let custard cool to room temperature, at least 10 minutes. Refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours.

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 320 degrees F.
• Melt chocolate over low heat.
• In a saucepan, combine cream, milk and 2 tblsps sugar and bring to bare simmer, stirring occasionally.
• In a small bowl combine 2 tblsps of the milk mixture with the espresso powder and stir into the milk mixture with the chocolate.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, egg, and remaining ¼ cup sugar for 1 minute, or until the mixture is blended well.
• Add milk mixture in a stream, whisking, and strain through a fine sieve into a large measuring cup.
• Spoon off the froth and pour into six 5-ounce custard cups.
• Cover cups with foil.
• Arrange cups in a baking pan and pour hot water around them to reach halfway up sides.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until just set.
• Remove from oven, let cups sit in hot water for 10 minutes, remove, and let cool completely.
• Chill 3 hours and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.