Baileys Irish Cream Pot de Creme

Since I've been gluten-free for a while now, people often ask me for good gluten-free dessert recipes.  And I'm honest with them.  I've had some marginal success with gluten-free baking but not a lot of stunning, wow factor recipes.  So if they are looking for a dessert to really impress their guests, I recommend they go for desserts that don't require gluten at all.  A lovely flour-less chocolate cake or a decadent mousse.  My favorite go-to dazzling dessert is Pot de Creme.  French for "pot of cream," it is a creamy, rich custard traditionally served in a pot-shaped cup.  To me the texture is lighter than pudding, but thicker than mousse.  It is an impressive ending to a meal, and this quick version is not difficult at all.  Traditionally it is flavored with vanilla, but often times like this recipe chocolate and coffee are used.  Liqueur is often used too.  Kahlua, Licor 43 or Grand Marnier are all delicious choices but to round out our St. Patrick's Day Dinner, I'm opting for Bailey's Irish Cream Liqueur.  Bailey's is a traditional and tasty addition to coffee, so of course the flavor is the perfect compliment to the coffee in this dessert.  We will be enjoying "Irish Nachos" which are really like Loaded Fries made with potato slices, a relish tray with Homemade Green Goddess Dip and Bailey's Irish Cream Pot de Creme to end the meal.  Look for those in upcoming posts.  For now, wow your guests with a fantastic, fancy,  make-ahead dessert, fitting for St. Patty's or any day of the week!

A make ahead dessert that will impress the guests!
Just in time for St. Patrick's Day

Luscious custard with a delicious Baileys
and Coffee flavor...

Garnish with freshly whipped cream.
Since we are celebrating St. Patrick's Day
I added green sprinkles of course.

A "fancy" dessert perfect for any occasion.
Who needs cake when you can have Pot de Creme?

Baileys Irish Cream Pot de Creme

1 (12 ounce bag) semi-sweet chocolate chips
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoons Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur
1/8 teaspoon fine salt
8 ounces brewed coffee, very hot

In a blender combine chocolate chips, eggs, vanilla, Baileys and salt.  Process until combined and the chocolate chips are broken into fine pieces.  Pour the very hot coffee in a steady stream while the blender is running.  When the mixture is smooth and combined, pour into custard cups, stem-less wine glasses or other small serving containers.  Cover with wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.  Garnish with freshly whipped cream and since it is St. Patrick's Day:  green sprinkles!

Prep Time:  Approximately 20 minutes     Cook Time:  Needs to Chill