🛒 Ingredients
For the Mousse:
- 🍫 6 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 🧈 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 🥚 3 large eggs, separated
- 🍬 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 🥛 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 🌿 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- 🧁 Whipped cream
- 🍫 Chocolate shavings or curls
- 🌿 Fresh mint leaves
🍳 Instructions
Melt the Chocolate
- Prepare the Chocolate Mixture:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Beat the Egg Yolks:
- In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks with 2 tablespoons of sugar until pale and creamy. Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.
Whip the Egg Whites
- Whip to Peaks:
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture in two additions, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
Whip the Cream
- Prepare the Whipped Cream:
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
Chill the Mousse
- Portion and Chill:
- Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Serve
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Top the mousse with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh mint leaves before serving.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🍫 Chocolate Choice: Use 70% dark chocolate for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter mousse.
- 🌰 Nutty Twist: Fold in finely chopped hazelnuts or almonds for added texture.
- 🍓 Berry Topping: Garnish with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or a drizzle of berry coulis for a fruity contrast.
- 🧊 Make Ahead: Prepare the mousse up to 2 days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chocolate Mousse as an elegant dessert after dinner or as a centerpiece for special occasions. Pair with a glass of dessert wine, espresso, or a cup of hot chocolate for a decadent experience.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Chocolate Mousse is creamy, airy, and indulgent. With its rich chocolate flavor and velvety texture, it’s the perfect dessert for chocoholics and anyone looking for a simple yet sophisticated treat.
