Ingredients
For the Chocolate Custard Cream
Instructions
Step 1
Place the *chocolate* in a large bowl and position a sieve over it. Set it aside.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, combine the *eggs*, *sugar*, *cream*, and *milk*. Place it over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches 78-80°C (172-176°F).
Step 3
Immediately remove the mixture from the heat and pour it through the sieve onto the chocolate. Let it sit for *2 minutes*, then blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender.
Step 4
Add a good pinch of *sea salt* – this is crucial for the flavor. Mix well, cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface, and chill in the refrigerator for *3-4 hours* until the cream is stable and pliable.
Servings
Serve with Fresh Berries: The tangy zest of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries beautifully complements the rich chocolate flavor of this cake.
Dollop of Whipped Cream: Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess. You can even sprinkle a little cocoa powder for a truly Instagram-worthy presentation 📸.
Afternoon Tea Delight: Pair this chocolate cake with freshly brewed tea or coffee. A fine selection of tea will add a sophisticated touch to your afternoon treat ☕.
Ice Cream on the Side: Serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream. The cold ice cream melting over the warm cake creates a heavenly duo 😋.
Equipment
Essential for mixing your ingredients thoroughly. Make sure to use one that’s big enough to avoid spillage.
Use a sifter to ensure your chocolate mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Perfect for heating your eggs, sugar, milk, and cream to the right temperature without burning.
This tool is key to achieving a smooth, creamy consistency in your chocolate custard.
Use plastic wrap to cover the cream mixture and let it cool without drying out.
Variations
Gluten-Free Variation: Swap the regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe celiac-friendly. Just be sure to check that all your other ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid contamination.
Vegan Variation: You can make a vegan version of this cake by using flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) and substituting the whole milk and cream with coconut milk and coconut cream 🥥.
Faq
- Why did my eggs curdle in the custard?
You probably overcooked the mixture. Be sure to remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches the right temperature (78-80° Celsius).
- How can I make my cake layers even?
Use a cake leveling tool or a serrated knife to trim off any uneven tops for a professional look.
- Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and sweetness of the cake.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cake layers and cream a day in advance. Just store them separately and assemble when ready to serve.
- How do I achieve a perfectly smooth finish for my cake?
After applying the cream, use a bench scraper or spatula to smooth out the sides and top. Chill the cake for better control over the texture.
- Can this recipe be scaled for a larger crowd?
Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients, but make sure your baking equipment can handle the larger quantities.