Introduction

This easy chocolate mousse is a decadent, yet simple dessert that comes together with just a few ingredients. With rich melted chocolate and fluffy whipped cream, it’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in no time.

The image shows two white ramekins filled with smooth, light brown chocolate mousse. Each mousse cup has a generous dollop of white whipped cream on top, slightly fluffy with soft peaks, sprinkled with small dark brown chocolate shavings. The ramekins have vertical ridges on the outside. Next to the front ramekin are two gold-colored spoons resting on a surface with a white marbled texture. The background is softly blurred, highlighting the mousse cups. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup chocolate chips (semisweet recommended)
½ cup heavy whipping cream (for melting chocolate)
⅔ cup chilled heavy whipping cream (for whipping)
1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine chocolate chips and ½ cup heavy cream. Heat in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Set aside to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally (about 15 minutes).
Step 2: In a mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the chilled ⅔ cup heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Chill the whipped cream in the refrigerator until the chocolate mixture has cooled.
Step 3: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled melted chocolate using a rubber or silicone spatula. Ensure the mixture is fully combined but still light and airy.
Step 4: Spoon the mousse into individual serving dishes and chill for at least 2 hours to set. For a firmer texture, keep it colder; for softer mousse, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
Gently folding the whipped cream is key to keeping the mousse light and fluffy—don’t overmix.
Add a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier or coffee extract to the melted chocolate for a flavor twist.
Reserve some whipped cream to pipe on top before serving for an elegant finish.

Storage

Store leftover mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir if it has separated slightly. Reheat is not recommended—serve cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl containing a rich, dark brown chocolate mousse with a light, airy texture. On top of the mousse, there is a layer of fluffy white whipped cream scattered with small chocolate shavings. A gold spoon holds a scoop of the mousse with some whipped cream on its edge, placed near the bowl’s rim. The bowl rests on a soft textured cloth with gray and white check patterns, set against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this mousse ahead of time?

Yes, this mousse can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better after chilling overnight as the flavors meld.

What can I use instead of powdered sugar?

You can substitute powdered sugar with granulated sugar but be sure to dissolve it well during whipping. Alternatively, a small amount of honey or maple syrup can be used, though it may alter the texture slightly.