Ingredients
Chocolate Cups
- 280 g (10 oz) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- sea salt, optional
Caramel Sauce
- 1 recipe homemade caramel sauce (prepared by dry or wet method)
Instructions
- Prepare Caramel Sauce: Start by making the homemade caramel sauce using your preferred method—either dry or wet method. Ensure the caramel is smooth and slightly cooled before proceeding.
- Melt Chocolate: Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (bain-marie). Stir the chocolate frequently until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Form Chocolate Shells: Arrange 16 small cupcake liners on a tray. Using a teaspoon, put two teaspoons of the melted chocolate into each liner. Use the back of the spoon or gently swirl the liners to coat the sides evenly with chocolate. This will form the cup walls to hold the caramel. Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes until the chocolate shells are fully set and firm.
- Fill with Caramel: Remove the chocolate cups from the fridge. Spoon approximately 1.5 teaspoons of the homemade caramel sauce into each chocolate cup, being careful not to overfill.
- Seal with Chocolate and Chill: Top each caramel-filled cup with 1 teaspoon of the melted chocolate, spreading it gently with the back of a spoon to cover the caramel completely. Optionally sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast. Return the cups to the refrigerator for about 25 minutes or until the topping is firm and set.
- Serve: Once set, carefully peel away the cupcake liners and serve the chocolate caramel cups chilled for a perfect bite-sized dessert.
Notes
- For best results, use good quality semi-sweet chocolate to ensure smooth melting and crisp chocolate shells.
- The homemade caramel can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator; warm slightly before filling to make it easier to spoon.
- Sprinkling sea salt on top enhances the flavor profile by balancing sweet and salty notes but is optional.
- If you prefer a firmer chocolate shell, double coat the liner sides with chocolate, chilling each layer separately.
- Ensure the chocolate cups are fully chilled before filling to prevent melting and keep the caramel contained.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American