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Vanilla Mousse with Chocolate

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 3-4 hours
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Melting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Vanilla Mousse with Chocolate is a luxurious dessert that combines airy, creamy vanilla mousse with a rich, indulgent chocolate layer. The perfect balance of flavors and textures makes this dessert an irresistible treat for any occasion. Simple to make yet elegant, it’s a perfect make-ahead option for impressing guests or satisfying your sweet tooth.


Ingredients

For the Vanilla Mousse:

  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream

  • ½ cup whole milk

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin

  • 2 tablespoons cold water

  • 2 large egg yolks

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for the egg yolks)

For the Chocolate Layer:

  • 6 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Make the Vanilla Mousse:

    • Bloom Gelatin: Combine gelatin and cold water in a small bowl. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes.

    • Prepare Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, heat milk, heavy cream, and 1/4 cup sugar over medium heat until hot, but not boiling. Remove from heat.

    • Whisk Egg Yolks: In another bowl, whisk egg yolks and remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar until pale and smooth.

    • Temper the Eggs: Gradually whisk the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks. Return mixture to the saucepan and cook on low heat, stirring until it thickens to coat the back of a spoon (170°F/77°C).

    • Add Gelatin: Stir in the bloomed gelatin and vanilla extract until fully dissolved. Let the custard cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.

    • Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold into the chilled custard.

  • Make the Chocolate Layer:

    • Melt Chocolate: Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit for 2-3 minutes before stirring until smooth.

    • Add Butter & Vanilla: Stir in butter (if using) and vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.

  • Assemble the Dessert:

    • Spoon the vanilla mousse into serving glasses. Top with the cooled chocolate layer.

    • Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until fully set.

  • Serve: Optionally, garnish with grated chocolate, fresh berries, or whipped cream.


Notes

Make-Ahead: Best prepared a few hours or the night before serving.Storage: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.Variations: You can swap the vanilla for almond, orange, or mint extract, or even use dark chocolate for the layer for a richer flavor.