Chocolate Mousse Recipe
This rich and creamy Chocolate Mousse combines melted semi-sweet chocolate with whipped heavy cream and a touch of cocoa powder to create a light, airy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a smooth texture and decadent flavor, it’s easy to make and impressive to serve.
- Author: Mila
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate baking bar
- 1 tsp Dutch processed cocoa powder
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 237 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 12 g (1 tablespoon) granulated sugar
- Pinch of table salt (or 1/8 tsp kosher salt)
Optional Garnishes
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Caramel
- Fresh berries
- Melt Chocolate: Roughly chop the semi-sweet chocolate and place it in a medium bowl. Microwave in 20 to 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval until completely melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Cocoa Mixture: Bring the water to a boil, then whisk it together with the Dutch processed cocoa powder until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Chocolate and Cocoa: Whisk the cocoa mixture into the melted chocolate until evenly incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and whisk again to blend all flavors.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with granulated sugar and salt until soft peaks form, meaning the cream holds shape but still has a smooth, billowy texture.
- Lighten Chocolate Mixture: Add about one-quarter of the whipped cream to the chocolate mixture and stir thoroughly to lighten the chocolate base, making it easier to fold in the rest of the cream.
- Fold in Remaining Cream: Gently fold the remaining whipped cream into the chocolate using a spatula. Use a folding technique by scooping from the center of the bowl underneath the mixture and bringing it over the top in quarter turns, repeating until fully blended without deflating the cream.
- Chill the Mousse: Spoon or pour the mousse into serving cups or bowls. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set properly. The mousse can be stored in the refrigerator for up to seven days.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with optional whipped cream, chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or fresh berries to enhance presentation and flavor.
Notes
- Use good quality semi-sweet chocolate for best flavor and smooth texture.
- Be careful not to overmix when folding whipped cream; maintain the airy consistency for a light mousse.
- Allow the mousse to chill long enough to develop its signature firmness and flavor depth.
- Microwaving chocolate in short bursts prevents burning and ensures even melting.
- Storing mousse overnight enhances flavor melding but can be enjoyed after minimum chilling time.
Keywords: chocolate mousse, easy dessert, creamy chocolate dessert, no-bake chocolate mousse, whipped cream dessert