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Chocolate Mousse Recipe

4.4 from 690 reviews

A rich and creamy chocolate mousse made with semi-sweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and whipped cream, offering a perfectly airy and decadent dessert that’s simple to prepare and ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Base

  • 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate baking bar
  • 1 tsp Dutch processed cocoa powder
  • 60 ml (1/4 cup) water
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Whipped Cream Mixture

  • 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 sauce

Instructions

  1. Chop and Melt Chocolate: Roughly chop the semi-sweet chocolate and place it in a medium bowl. Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring well between each until fully melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare Cocoa Mixture: Boil the water and whisk in the Dutch processed cocoa powder until smooth and combined.
  3. Combine Chocolate and Cocoa: Whisk the cocoa mixture into the melted chocolate until fully incorporated. Add vanilla extract and whisk again to blend the flavors.
  4. Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with sugar and salt until soft peaks form.
  5. Lighten Chocolate Mixture: Add one quarter of the whipped cream to the chocolate mixture and stir gently to lighten the chocolate texture.
  6. Fold in Remaining Cream: Gradually add the remaining whipped cream in two additions, folding gently with a spatula. Use a folding technique by scooping from the center under the mousse and folding it over the top, rotating the bowl quarter turns to combine without deflating the whipped cream.
  7. Chill the Mousse: Pour the mousse into serving cups or bowls. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set. The mousse can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with additional whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and caramel sauce to enhance presentation and flavor.

Notes

  • Use Dutch processed cocoa powder for a smoother, richer flavor.
  • Do not overwhip the cream; soft peaks ensure the mousse stays light and airy.
  • Folding the whipped cream carefully prevents losing volume in the mousse.
  • Chocolate mousse can be made a day ahead, allowing flavors to fully develop.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream whipped to soft peaks.

Keywords: chocolate mousse, easy chocolate mousse, no bake chocolate dessert, creamy chocolate mousse, French dessert