If you are a chocolate lover searching for a simple yet indulgent dessert to whip up in no time, look no further than this Easy Chocolate Pots Recipe. Rich, creamy, and with just the right amount of cocoa intensity, these little pots of chocolate heaven are a celebration in every spoonful. Perfect for both casual evenings and special occasions, this recipe blends smooth dark chocolate with silky custard-like texture that sets beautifully in the fridge. You only need a handful of everyday ingredients, and within minutes, you’ll have a luscious treat ready to charm anyone who tries it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Easy Chocolate Pots Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role in building the decadent flavor and velvety texture. You won’t need any fancy pantry items—just staples that you likely already have, coming together to create a dessert that tastes like it took hours to make.
- 150 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), roughly chopped: Choose a quality chocolate like Lindt 70% for a smooth, rich base.
- 2 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch): This thickens the mixture perfectly without changing the flavor or color.
- ⅓ cup white sugar (70g): Adds just enough sweetness to balance the bitterness of the dark chocolate.
- 2 cups whole milk (full cream milk): Provides creaminess and body to the pots, essential for that custard-like finish.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28g / 1oz): Enhances richness and gives a glossy, luscious texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to round out the chocolate’s intensity.
- Whipped cream and chocolate curls to serve: Optional toppings that add a fun, elegant touch to your dessert presentation.
How to Make Easy Chocolate Pots Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan
Begin by placing the roughly chopped dark chocolate, cornflour, sugar, and whole milk into a medium saucepan over low to medium heat. Whisk everything together gently but thoroughly until the chocolate melts completely and the ingredients are smoothly combined. This initial blending is crucial for a silky-smooth texture later on.
Step 2: Cook Until Thickened
Keep the saucepan on the heat and whisk constantly and gently. As the mixture heats, it starts to thicken, transforming into a rich, pudding-like custard. You’ll notice it becoming almost bouncy when moved within the pan, indicating it’s ready for the next step. Patience here ensures your pots aren’t runny or grainy.
Step 3: Add Butter and Vanilla
Once thickened, stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. These ingredients add a rounded richness and a lovely sheen to your chocolate pots, making them irresistibly creamy and fragrant. Stir until everything is fully incorporated and the butter melts smoothly into the custard.
Step 4: Pour into Serving Glasses
Divide the luscious chocolate mixture evenly between four serving glasses or ramekins. This step is your chance to create an inviting presentation, so choose your serving vessels with care. These pots will chill and set, taking on a perfect, spoonable consistency.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Cover each pot tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours until firm but still creamy, so every bite melts in your mouth like a dream.
Step 6: Add Final Touches
Just before serving, top your Easy Chocolate Pots Recipe with a swirl of whipped cream and sprinkle some delicate chocolate curls over the top. These garnishes bring a complimentary texture and visual appeal, making your dessert both elegant and inviting.
How to Serve Easy Chocolate Pots Recipe
Garnishes
Whipped cream is the classic accompaniment, lending lightness to contrast the dense chocolate. Chocolate curls, grated chocolate, or even a dusting of cocoa powder can add a visually stunning finish. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries also introduce a refreshing tartness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
Side Dishes
Serve these chocolate pots alongside simple biscuits or buttery shortbread for some crunch. Alternatively, fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can complement the dessert perfectly, balancing richness with brightness and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering the chocolate pots with crushed cookies or fruit compote in a clear glass to create a parfait effect. You can also serve them in edible chocolate cups for a stunning presentation that will impress guests at your next dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because these pots are custard-based, they keep best stored in the refrigerator with plastic wrap pressed onto their surface to prevent a skin from forming. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making them a great option for preparing ahead of time.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this Easy Chocolate Pots Recipe, as the texture can become grainy and separate upon thawing. The delicate custard consistency suffers from freezing and defrosting.
Reheating
These chocolate pots are best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge. Reheating is not ideal since the texture will change, losing that silky smooth quality that makes this dessert so special.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely, but keep in mind that milk chocolate will yield a sweeter, less intense chocolate pot. If you prefer a milder taste, milk chocolate is a fine substitute, just adjust the sugar to taste.
What if I don’t have cornflour? Can I use something else?
Cornflour is key to getting the right custard thickness without altering the flavor. However, you can use arrowroot powder or potato starch as alternatives, but use the same amount and be sure to whisk well to avoid lumps.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can make vegan Easy Chocolate Pots by using plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, a vegan butter substitute, and dairy-free dark chocolate. Just ensure your chocolate is 70% cocoa or higher to avoid added dairy.
Can I make this recipe without butter?
The butter adds richness and a glossy finish, but you can omit it if desired. The pots will still be delicious, though slightly less creamy and shiny in texture.
How long does it take for the chocolate pots to set?
Ideally, you want to chill them for 3 to 4 hours for the best texture. If you’re short on time, 2 hours will also work but the pots might be a bit softer.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chocolate Pots Recipe is truly one of those joyously simple desserts that never fails to impress. With its luscious texture, deep chocolate flavor, and effortless preparation, it’s perfect for any chocolate craving or special occasion. Give it a try and watch how quickly these little pots become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire!
PrintEasy Chocolate Pots Recipe
Easy Chocolate Pots are a quick and decadent dessert featuring a rich, creamy chocolate custard made with dark chocolate, milk, and a touch of vanilla. Ready in under 10 minutes, these pots are perfect for a comforting treat chilled and topped with whipped cream and chocolate curls.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus 3-4 hours chilling
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
Chocolate Custard
- 150 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch)
- ⅓ cup white sugar (70g)
- 2 cups whole milk (full cream milk)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28g / 1oz)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
To Serve
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate curls
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped dark chocolate, cornflour, sugar, and whole milk in a medium saucepan over low-medium heat. Whisk the ingredients continuously until the chocolate is melted and fully combined with the mixture.
- Thicken the Custard: Continue to gently whisk the mixture over low-medium heat. Keep whisking gently but constantly until the mixture thickens into a pudding or custard consistency, becoming almost bouncy when stirred in the pan.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, adding richness and depth of flavor to the custard.
- Portion the Pudding: Pour the thickened chocolate custard evenly into 4 serving glasses or pots for individual portions.
- Chill: Cover each serving glass with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours until fully chilled and set.
- Serve: Just before serving, top each chocolate pot with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with chocolate curls for an elegant finish.
Notes
- You can use different types of dark chocolate depending on your preference, but 70% cocoa gives a good balance of richness and bitterness.
- Pressing plastic wrap directly on the surface prevents a skin from forming on the custard while chilling.
- If you don’t have chocolate curls, finely grate some chocolate or sprinkle cocoa powder as an alternative garnish.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
