Make Ahead Holiday Dessert:: Salted Chocolate Pots de Crème

One thing that's super important when it comes to hosting is to be a stress-free hostess. A key to remaining calm and collected is to make a few dishes ahead of time. Pots de Crème are a lovely way to end a meal, and they happen to be a great make ahead dessert choice. In fact, these can be made up to two days in advance! It's an elegant, indulgent dessert that's sure to wow your guests. Let me know if you give them a try; I'm confident you'll love it if you do!

Salted Chocolate Pots de CrèmeServes 6-8

You will need:- 1 ½ cup whole milk- 1/2 cup whipping cream- 5 ounces bittersweet (not unsweetened) or semisweet chocolate, chopped- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or flake salt- 6 large egg yolks- 1/3 cup sugar- 1 cup whipped cream for toppingTo prepare:Preheat oven to 325°F. Bring milk and cream just to simmer in heavy medium saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat. Add chocolate and salt; whisk until melted and smooth. Whisk yolks and sugar in large bowl to blend. Gradually whisk in hot chocolate mixture. Strain mixture into another bowl. Cool 10 minutes, skimming any foam from surface.Divide custard mixture among six 3/4-cup custard cups or soufflé dishes. Cover each with foil. Place cups in large baking pan. Add enough hot water to pan to come halfway up sides of cups. Bake until custards are set but centers still move slightly when gently shaken, about 55 minutes. Remove from water. Remove foil. Chill custards until cold, about 3 hours. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and keep chilled.) Top with whip cream, and serve.