Name: Creamy Chocolate Mousse
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 6 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 large egg yolks; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, berries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chocolate mousse delivers intense chocolate flavor without being heavy. It’s made with simple ingredients, yet the result feels luxurious and refined. Light and fluffy, but still rich and creamy, it’s a perfect make-ahead dessert that can be dressed up with whipped cream, berries, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. Best of all, you don’t need any gelatin or complicated techniques—just quality chocolate and a little patience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped)
Heavy cream
Egg yolks
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Salt
Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, berries

Directions

Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (double boiler method), stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Whip the heavy cream in a separate bowl until soft peaks form. Set aside in the fridge.
In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until pale and thick.
Slowly add the melted chocolate to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
Fold in the whipped cream gently in batches, using a spatula, until fully incorporated and smooth.
Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream, berries, or chocolate shavings if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: About 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Mocha Mousse: Add 1–2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder to the melted chocolate.
Orange Chocolate Mousse: Add a bit of orange zest or a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier.
Spiced Chocolate: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a Mexican hot chocolate vibe.
White Chocolate Mousse: Substitute with white chocolate and reduce sugar slightly.
Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the mousse covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, as the texture may separate. This dessert is meant to be served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but reduce the added sugar slightly as milk chocolate is naturally sweeter.

Is it safe to use raw eggs?

If you’re concerned, use pasteurized eggs or look for eggless mousse recipes. The yolks are not cooked in this version.

Can I make this mousse dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream in place of heavy cream.

Why did my mousse turn grainy?

This usually happens when the chocolate is too hot when mixed into the eggs. Let it cool slightly first.

Can I freeze chocolate mousse?

Freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the smooth texture once thawed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. It can be made a day in advance and chilled until ready to serve.

How do I know when it’s whipped to soft peaks?

The cream should hold its shape but still be soft and not stiff or grainy.

Can I add alcohol?

Yes, a splash of liqueur like Kahlúa, Baileys, or brandy adds a rich, adult twist.

Can I serve it warm?

This version is best served chilled, but you can enjoy the warm chocolate-egg mixture before folding in the cream as a custard-style treat.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Use high-quality chocolate with at least 60–70% cocoa content for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Chocolate Mousse is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers—elegant, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re preparing it for guests or treating yourself, this recipe offers a perfect balance of richness and lightness in every spoonful. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again.