Description
This rich and silky Chocolate Mousse recipe delivers an effortlessly elegant dessert perfect for chocolate lovers. Made with high-quality semisweet chocolate, whipped egg whites, and whipped cream, it combines fluffy texture with intense chocolate flavor, ready in just 20 minutes plus chilling time. Ideal for impressing guests or indulging in a classic treat at home.
Ingredients
Chocolate Base
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, best quality
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature, yolks and whites separated
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream Topping
- ½ cup heavy cream, cold (for folding into mousse)
- ½ cup heavy cream, cold (for topping)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate mixture: Place the butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl and break the chocolate into small pieces directly into the bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until about 75% melted. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Let cool slightly, then whisk in egg yolks one at a time until smooth. Set aside.
- Whip the egg whites: Using a stand or hand mixer, beat egg whites on medium-high speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form. Gradually add ¼ cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Fold this into the chocolate mixture gently until fully combined.
- Whip cream and combine: In another bowl, whip ½ cup heavy cream on medium-high speed until it begins to thicken. Add 2 tablespoons sugar and vanilla extract, whip until medium peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate-egg white mixture carefully to maintain lightness. Divide the mousse into 6 glasses, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Prepare topping: Up to a few hours before serving, whip the remaining ½ cup heavy cream with 2 teaspoons sugar until medium peaks form. Dollop whipped cream over chilled mousse and garnish with chocolate shavings.
- Make-Ahead Tips: The mousse can be made up to 1 day ahead. Keep covered and chilled. Add whipped cream and chocolate shavings just before serving.
- Safety Note: This mousse contains raw eggs. Use pasteurized eggs if preferred. Raw eggs are not advisable for pregnant women, babies, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals.
Notes
- Use high-quality semisweet chocolate for best flavor and texture.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification.
- Be gentle folding the egg whites and whipped cream to keep the mousse light and airy.
- Chill mousse for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly.
- Use pasteurized eggs if concerned about raw egg consumption.
- Chocolate shavings can be made with a vegetable peeler on a chocolate bar or purchased pre-made.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: French
