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Chocolate Mousse Recipe

4.9 from 145 reviews

This classic Chocolate Mousse is a rich, creamy, and airy dessert made from melted semi-sweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and whipped cream. Perfectly balanced with a touch of vanilla and a pinch of salt, it is chilled to achieve a smooth, velvety texture. Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and caramel for an elegant finish.

Ingredients

Scale

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 tbsp) granulated sugar
  • Pinch of table salt or 1/8 tsp kosher salt

Optional Garnishes

  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Caramel

Instructions

  1. Melt Chocolate: Roughly chop the semi-sweet chocolate and place it into a medium bowl. Melt it in the microwave in 20 to 30 second intervals, stirring well between each interval until smooth and fully melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare Cocoa Mixture: Boil the water and immediately whisk it into the Dutch processed cocoa powder until fully combined and smooth.
  3. Combine Chocolate and Cocoa: Whisk the cocoa powder mixture into the melted chocolate thoroughly. Add the vanilla extract and whisk again until all are well incorporated.
  4. Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream along with granulated sugar and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. The cream should be smooth and hold shape but still be pliable.
  5. Lighten Chocolate: Add about one quarter of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture and stir vigorously to lighten the chocolate base, making it easier to fold in the rest.
  6. Fold in Remaining Cream: Add the remaining whipped cream in two additions. Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to maintain airiness. Do this by scooping from the bottom and folding over the top repeatedly in quarter turns until the mixture is homogenous and fluffy.
  7. Chill the Mousse: Pour the mousse into serving cups or bowls. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set and chilled. The mousse can be stored refrigerated for up to seven days.
  8. Serve with Garnish: Before serving, garnish with additional whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and caramel drizzle or berries for a decorative and tasty finish.

Notes

  • Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for best flavor.
  • Be careful not to overwhip the cream to avoid it turning into butter.
  • Folding gently is crucial to maintain the mousse’s light texture.
  • The mousse can be prepared a day ahead to save time.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and verify chocolate suitability.

Keywords: chocolate mousse, creamy mousse, chocolate dessert, easy mousse recipe, classic French dessert