Decadent Chocolate Flan

1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2In a saucepan, combine sugar (1 cup) and water (¼ cup) over medium heat. Stir until the sugar (1 cup) dissolves and the mixture turns into a golden caramel color.

3Quickly pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.

4In another saucepan, heat the heavy cream (1 cup) and milk over medium heat until it simmers. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate (6 oz). Stir until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth.

5In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs (4 large) and vanilla extract (½ tsp) until well combined. Slowly pour the chocolate mixture into the eggs (4 large), whisking constantly to avoid curdling.

6Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps.

7Pour the mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.

8Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan and fill the pan with hot water (¼ cup) halfway up the sides of the baking dish to create a water (¼ cup) bath.

9Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

10Remove from the oven and let it cool. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.

11To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan, place a serving plate on top, and invert the flan onto the plate. The caramel will create a luscious sauce around the flan slices.

12Enjoy the rich and creamy Decadent Chocolate Flan!