Bittersweet Chocolate Flan

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. In a heavy 10-inch skillet heat 3/4 cup sugar over medium-high heat until sugar begins to melt, shaking the skillet occasionally for even melting. Do not stir. When sugar starts to melt, reduce heat to low; cook about 5 minutes more or until all sugar is melted and golden brown, stirring with a wooden spoon. Immediately pour melted sugar into a 9-inch round cake pan*; tilt to coat the entire bottom of the pan. Set aside for at least 10 minutes.

2. In a large heavy saucepan heat and stir chocolate over low heat until melted. Gradually whisk in milk; heat and stir over medium heat until smooth. Remove from heat; set aside.

3. In a large bowl lightly beat eggs. Whisk the warm chocolate mixture, the remaining 3/4 cup sugar, and the cinnamon into eggs. Pour chocolate mixture into cake pan. Place cake pan in a roasting pan. Place roasting pan on rack in oven. Pour boiling water into the roasting pan around cake pan to a depth of 1 inch.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Carefully remove cake pan from water. Cool slightly on a wire rack. Cover and chill for 6 to 24 hours.

5. To unmold, run a sharp knife around edges of flan in pan. Invert a serving plate over pan; turn pan and plate over together. Remove pan. If desired, garnish with pomegranate seeds. Makes 12 servings.