Decadent Bittersweet Chocolate Pots de Crème

1. Prepare Chocolate

Start by placing the chopped bittersweet chocolate in a medium bowl and set it aside. You'll need it ready when the custard is done.

2. Whisk Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and salt until they are thoroughly combined. Once mixed, gradually incorporate the heavy cream and half-and-half, ensuring a smooth consistency.

3. Cook Custard

Pour this mixture into a medium saucepan and cook it over medium-low heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon, scraping the bottom to prevent any curdling or overcooking. This step is crucial as you want the custard to thicken without reaching a simmer. You'll know it's ready when it has a thickened, silky texture, which takes about 8 to 12 minutes.

4. Combine Chocolate and Custard

Once the custard has thickened, pour it through a fine-mesh strainer over the bowl of chopped chocolate. Let it stand for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt, then whisk until you have a smooth mixture.

5. Add Espresso and Vanilla

In a small bowl, dissolve the instant espresso powder in the water. Add this espresso mixture along with the vanilla extract to the chocolate custard and whisk until fully combined.

6. Divide and Chill

Divide the chocolate mixture evenly among eight 5-ounce ramekins. Give each ramekin a gentle tap on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Allow the pots de crème to cool to room temperature, then cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 3 days.

7. Prepare Whipped Cream

For the whipped cream, combine the chilled heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract in the bowl of a stand mixer. Whip on medium-low speed until the mixture becomes foamy, then increase the speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form, which should take about 1 to 3 minutes.

8. Serve

When ready to serve, let the pots de crème stand at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. Dollop about 2 tablespoons of the whipped cream onto each pot de crème. If desired, garnish with a light dusting of cocoa powder or some chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.