Classic French Chocolate Royale

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Prepare a baking dish for a water bath by filling it halfway with hot water.

2. 2

   Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place in a heatproof bowl.

3. 3

   In a saucepan, heat the low-fat milk and light cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat.

4. 4

   Pour the hot milk and cream mixture over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 1 minute, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

5. 5

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until well combined.

6. 6

   Gradually pour the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.

7. 7

   Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a clean bowl to ensure a silky texture.

8. 8

   Pour the custard mixture into individual ramekins or a baking dish.

9. 9

   Place the ramekins in the prepared water bath and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the custard is just set but still slightly wobbly in the center.

10. 10

    Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

11. 11

    Serve chilled, optionally garnished with a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings.