Description
Foolproof, elegant dark chocolate cups that require no tempering or fancy equipment. These crisp, glossy shells are made with just five ingredients and can be filled with ganache, caramel, or fruit.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces (340g) high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa solids), chopped
- 1 tablespoon (14g) cocoa butter
- 1 teaspoon (5g) unsalted butter
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional flavorings: orange extract, peppermint extract, or almond extract
Instructions
- Place silicone molds on a flat baking sheet for stability.
- Chop chocolate into small, uniform pieces and place in a microwave-safe bowl with cocoa butter and unsalted butter.
- Melt chocolate using the microwave method: heat on 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring vigorously between each interval until smooth and glossy (approx. 2-3 minutes). Alternatively, use a double boiler on the stovetop, stirring constantly until melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sea salt. Taste and adjust if necessary.
- Pour melted chocolate into each mold cavity. Use an offset spatula or spoon to spread chocolate evenly along the bottom and up the sides, ensuring no thin spots.
- Tap the baking sheet gently on the counter to remove air bubbles and settle the chocolate.
- Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate shell is firm and no longer tacky.
- Optional: Add filling (such as ganache, caramel, or fresh fruit) to the center of each shell.
- Seal the cups by pouring a thin layer of remaining melted chocolate over the filling or smoothing the rim of empty cups.
- Refrigerate for another 20-30 minutes until completely hard.
- Gently press the bottom of the silicone molds to release the cups. If sticking, freeze for 5 minutes.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Notes
Ensure all equipment is completely dry, as even a drop of water can cause the chocolate to seize. For best results, use high-quality couverture or bar chocolate rather than chocolate chips, which contain stabilizers. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 15
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: dark chocolate cups, chocolate dessert, easy chocolate recipe, 5 ingredient dessert, elegant dessert, chocolate truffles, vegan chocolate, gluten-free dessert