In a small saucepan, combine the cream and sugar. Using the back of a paring knife, scrape the vanilla bean seeds into the mixture. Toss in the bean. Place over medium heat and bring just to a simmer. Remove from the heat.

In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until frothy. Slowly pour one-third of the cream into the yolks, whisking constantly. Pour the mixture back into the pan and return to low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture coats the back of a spoon (about 160°F).

Remove from the heat. Remove and discard the vanilla bean. Add the finely chopped chocolate and whisk until melted and smooth.

While mixture is still warm, pour into a serving bowl or into 8 individual demitasse cups. Let cool slightly, then top with loosely whipped cappuccino cream and serve.