Name: Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 6 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 large eggs (separated); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; pinch of salt

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If you’re looking for an easy, decadent dessert that feels fancy but is secretly simple, this Chocolate Mousse Recipe will absolutely steal the show. Its silky texture, rich flavor, and cloud-like lightness mean every spoonful is a delight. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself after a long day, making chocolate mousse at home is surprisingly doable – and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Chocolate Mousse Recipe are delightfully simple, yet each one brings something special to the table. From deep chocolate notes to fluffy creaminess, every element works together to create a mousse that’s both luxurious and approachable.

6 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped): This is the heart of your mousse, so use good-quality chocolate for the richest, most intense flavor.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds lusciousness and helps melt the chocolate smoothly.
2 large eggs (separated): The yolks provide silkiness, and the whites make the mousse beautifully airy.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the mousse and helps stabilize the whipped egg whites.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a hint of warmth and depth.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped cream is what gives the mousse its dreamy, light texture.
Pinch of salt: Just a touch enhances all the other flavors without making the mousse “salty.”

How to Make Chocolate Mousse Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

Start by setting up a double boiler: place a heatproof bowl over a pot of gently simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add your chopped chocolate and butter. Stir patiently with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything melts into a glossy, smooth pool. Take the bowl off the heat and let it cool for just a couple of minutes – this is key so you don’t scramble the eggs in the next step!

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Yolks and Vanilla

In a separate medium bowl, whisk the two egg yolks with the vanilla extract until the mixture turns pale and slightly thick. This lightens up the yolks and infuses them with that pleasant hint of vanilla. Once your chocolate mixture has cooled a little, slowly whisk it into the yolks, making a unified, rich base.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites and Add Sugar

Grab a clean mixing bowl (a metal or glass one works best) and beat the egg whites with a tiny pinch of salt. Once soft peaks appear, gradually sprinkle in the sugar and keep beating until you have stiff, shiny peaks. These whipped whites are the secret to mousse that’s airy as a cloud.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In another clean, cold bowl, whip the heavy cream until you see soft, billowy peaks. Take care not to overwhip – you want a light, smooth consistency that will fold gently into your mousse base.

Step 5: Fold Everything Together

This is where the magic truly happens! Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate-yolk mixture. Next, carefully fold in the egg whites in two or three additions. Using slow, broad strokes ensures everything stays luscious and light, with no streaks or lumps.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Spoon the finished mousse into individual cups or bowls. Cover and chill for at least two hours, or until set. Serve each portion with your favorite toppings, like whipped cream, chocolate curls, or fresh berries. Now, sit back and enjoy the fruits of your effort – a homemade Chocolate Mousse Recipe that’s destined to impress!

How to Serve Chocolate Mousse Recipe

Garnishes

The beauty of this Chocolate Mousse Recipe is how well it pairs with all manner of toppings. Swirl on a fluffy dollop of whipped cream, scatter chocolate shavings across the top, or add a handful of vibrant berries for color and tang. You can also sprinkle over a pinch of flaky sea salt or finish with a delicate dusting of cocoa powder to showcase those rich chocolate notes.

Side Dishes

Mousse is definitely the star, but if you want to make your dessert feel even more special, try serving it with shortbread cookies, crisp biscotti, or a handful of candied nuts. The sweet crunch of a cookie or the buttery flavor of a biscuit adds a fun texture contrast and makes every bite extra memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation turns a great dessert into a memorable experience. Serve your Chocolate Mousse Recipe in vintage teacups, petite mason jars, or elegant martini glasses for an elevated look. Mini dessert shot glasses are perfect for parties, letting guests enjoy a smaller indulgence. For even more wow factor, set out a DIY mousse bar with bowls of toppings so everyone can customize theirs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (a rarity!), cover your mousse cups tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For the best texture, let them sit out for a few minutes before digging in, so the mousse can soften just slightly.

Freezing

This Chocolate Mousse Recipe can be frozen in individual containers for up to one month, but keep in mind that it may lose some of its signature airy texture. To freeze, cover tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. The mousse will be a bit denser but still delicious!

Reheating

Mousse is best enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature, so there’s no need for actual reheating. If you’ve chilled your mousse for an extended period, just let it rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to regain its perfect, creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will yield a sweeter, milder mousse. If you prefer a less intense chocolate flavor, go right ahead and substitute, though you might want to reduce the sugar slightly so it’s not too sweet.

Are raw eggs safe in chocolate mousse?

This classic Chocolate Mousse Recipe uses raw eggs, just like traditional French mousse. If you’re concerned, use pasteurized eggs or opt for recipes that use whipped cream only. Pasteurized eggs are usually safe for most people and keep the texture just as creamy.

Can I make this mousse dairy-free?

Yes! You can swap the butter for a plant-based spread and use coconut cream in place of whipping cream. Just know that the flavor will change a bit and you’ll add a mild coconut note, which is lovely in its own right.

How far in advance can I make chocolate mousse?

The mousse can be prepared up to a full day ahead, making it a perfect dessert for dinner parties. Simply keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve and add toppings at the last minute for best freshness and appearance.

What’s the best way to get a super smooth texture?

The key is to gently fold the whipped cream and egg whites into the chocolate base without over-mixing or deflating the mixture. Use a spatula and slow, broad strokes, being patient as the components fully combine for that dreamy, silky finish every Chocolate Mousse Recipe promises.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making mousse before, this Chocolate Mousse Recipe might just become your new dessert tradition. It’s the perfect way to indulge your chocolate cravings and impress friends with minimal effort. Give it a try and share (or savor) every rich, airy spoonful – your taste buds will thank you!

Chocolate Mousse Recipe

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4.6 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of this classic Chocolate Mousse. Velvety smooth chocolate combined with airy whipped cream creates a decadent dessert that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Mixture:

6 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Egg Yolk Mixture:

2 large eggs (separated)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whipped Cream:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
pinch of salt

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Instructions

Melt Chocolate: In a double boiler, melt chocolate and butter until smooth. Let it cool.
Prepare Egg Yolk Mixture: Whisk egg yolks with vanilla until pale. Combine with melted chocolate.
Beat Egg Whites: Beat egg whites with salt and sugar until stiff peaks form.
Whip Cream: Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Combine Mixtures: Fold whipped cream into chocolate mixture, then gently fold in the egg whites.
Chill: Spoon into serving cups and chill for 2 hours. Serve topped with desired toppings.