Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chocolate mousse is a go-to dessert for countless reasons. It’s simple to prepare yet feels luxurious and sophisticated. The texture is airy and creamy, making each bite feel like a cloud of chocolate bliss. It uses everyday ingredients, can be made ahead of time, and is easy to customize with different toppings or flavor additions. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate

• Eggs (separated into yolks and whites)

• Granulated sugar

• Heavy cream

• Vanilla extract

• Salt

Directions

1. Melt the chocolate gently over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.

3. Stir the melted chocolate into the egg yolk mixture along with vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

4. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

5. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until combined.

7. Carefully fold in the beaten egg whites, being cautious not to deflate the mixture.

8. Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or ramekins.

9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 to 6 servings, depending on the portion size. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional chilling time of at least 2 hours.

Variations

• Add a splash of coffee or espresso to the melted chocolate for a mocha flavor.

• Stir in a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur, such as Grand Marnier, Baileys, or Chambord.

• Top with fresh berries, shaved chocolate, or a dollop of whipped cream.

• Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter version.

• Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a subtle spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store chocolate mousse in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. This dessert should not be frozen, as it may affect the texture. Do not reheat; serve chilled for the best experience.

FAQs

What kind of chocolate works best for chocolate mousse?

High-quality semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate with at least 60% cocoa solids is ideal for the best flavor and texture.

Is it safe to eat raw eggs in mousse?

Traditional mousse uses raw eggs, but to reduce risk, you can use pasteurized eggs or recipes that involve gently cooking the yolks.

Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate until serving.

Can I make it without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with whipped aquafaba or use a mousse recipe based on whipped cream and gelatin.

How do I prevent the mousse from being too dense?

Fold the whipped cream and egg whites gently into the chocolate mixture to maintain the airy texture.

What’s the best way to melt chocolate?

Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Can I flavor the mousse with extracts?

Yes, almond, mint, or orange extracts work well in small amounts to complement the chocolate.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free chocolate and substitute the cream with coconut cream for a rich, vegan version.

How long does it take to set in the fridge?

At least 2 hours, though longer chilling results in a firmer texture.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but milk chocolate will make the mousse sweeter and less intense in chocolate flavor.

Conclusion

Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse is the epitome of a luxurious yet approachable dessert. With its silky texture, deep chocolate flavor, and effortless preparation, it’s a dish that satisfies every time. Whether served solo or dressed up with toppings, this mousse is sure to leave a lasting impression.