Pots de crème (or pots-au-crème) translates to “pots of cream” or “pots of custard,” owing to the cute little pots or cups in which this traditional French custard is served. Dating from the 17th century, it’s a lighter, looser version of modern-day custard — creamier and richer than pudding and mousse, and not as firm as a baked custard or flan. Made by baking real cream, milk and eggs together in little cups in a low-temperature water bath, these are truly divine experiences of texture and taste.
A creamy combination of chocolate and peppermint
Making a fancy French dessert is much easier than you probably think! The traditional flavors are vanilla and chocolate, but you can choose to suit your palate. This recipe uses the festive combination of holiday mint and chocolate, but once you have the hang of it, you can make them in caramel, pumpkin, almond, coffee or fresh fruit flavors. This recipe was created by Jessica Cuff, who works at the quaintest little coffee shop you have ever seen: The Coffee Shop at Agritopia, in Gilbert, Arizona. The atmosphere is cozy, and the food and drinks are made-from-scratch delicious. In this recipe, Jessica gives the traditional French dessert some festive holiday flair. The cream and milk are infused with the flavor of fresh peppermint leaves to create a refreshing mint cream. White chocolate ganache and dark chocolate meet to satisfy the sweet tooth of any chocolate lover. A sprinkling of peppermint and a sprig of mint add a seasonal touch.
More about these delicious desserts
Originally, the custards were served in a crust, but they evolved to be served in little decorative pots with lids, which were highly decorated and highly prized for their beauty. There is even a virtual museum featuring hundreds of elaborate and beautiful Petit Pots on the Gourmet Sleuth website.
4 ounces, or 1/2 cup, high-quality white chocolate, chopped1 cup chilled heavy cream1/4 teaspoon vanilla extractPinch of kosher salt
Recipe provided courtesy of the Arizona Republic/USA TODAY NETWORK The simple ingredients blend to create a silky and dense dessert that packs a lot of flavor into an adorable container. You don’t have to have a collection of antique heirloom petit pots to create a pretty presentation for your dessert. Just get creative! You can use ramekins, mason jars, clear juice glasses, shot glasses, small dessert bowls, punch cups, tea cups or even coffee mugs. Here we have used a clear glass so that the eyes can also feast on the beautiful layers of this creamy dessert, but you can use any containers that can withstand a little heat. This dessert is as pretty to look at as it is fun to eat, and makes the perfect conclusion to any holiday meal!
